Veteran Joe Staten Leaves 343 Industries Amid Reshuffle
In the aftermath of Microsoft’s recent extensive round of layoffs, it appears that 343 Industries, the developer behind Halo Infinite, has been significantly affected. Reports indicate that the studio’s headcount has been reduced, particularly impacting the campaign team.
Bloomberg states that the layoffs come after a prolonged hiring freeze and contractor departures, with studio head Pierre Hintze informing staff via email that some roles are being eliminated due to the restructuring of certain group elements. Notably, the campaign team is said to be among the hardest hit.
As part of the reshuffle, Joe Staten, a veteran associated with the Halo franchise who returned in 2020 to guide Halo Infinite, is reportedly leaving 343 Industries to rejoin Xbox Publishing.
Following the report by Bloomberg, former and current employees took to social media to express frustrations and confirm their status regarding the layoffs. One X user remarked, “The layoffs at 343 shouldn’t have happened, and Halo Infinite should be in a better state…”
These developments follow Microsoft’s recent announcement of plans to cut 10,000 jobs, occurring just a year after the acquisition of Activision Blizzard for $69 billion. Microsoft CEO Satya Nadella clarified that the layoffs represent “less than 5% of our total employee base” and detailed the benefits provided to affected employees, including above-market severance pay, healthcare coverage continuation, stock award vesting, career transition services, and notice prior to termination.
The impact of these layoffs on the development of Halo Infinite and the broader gaming community’s concerns about the game’s state remain subjects of ongoing discussions and evaluations.