ZeniMax Online Studios has preserved all employment positions despite terminating Project Blackbird development. The ZOS United-CWA union announced through Bluesky that none of the 222 affected developers face immediate job losses. Microsoft continues negotiations with the labor organization regarding the studio's future direction after the project closure. Workers maintain their current compensation and benefit packages while discussions proceed. The December 2024 unionization effort appears to have protected staff members from standard industry practices during project cancellations.
Microsoft has terminated multiple gaming initiatives beyond the ZeniMax Online project. The company cancelled the Perfect Dark reboot that received its initial announcement during 2020. The Initiative development team responsible for Perfect Dark has ceased operations entirely. Rare's Everwild project also faced termination during the recent restructuring wave. Turn 10 Studios experienced significant workforce reductions and reportedly transitioned into a support role for Forza Horizon development.
The union statement acknowledged the disappointment among developers and gaming community members who anticipated Project Blackbird. Media coverage and fan interest had generated expectations for the cancelled title. ZOS United-CWA expressed gratitude for external support during the transition period. Future layoffs remain possible as Microsoft finalizes operational changes. The union emphasized that organized labor efforts would ensure dignified departures for any affected workers.
Microsoft has terminated multiple gaming initiatives beyond the ZeniMax Online project. The company cancelled the Perfect Dark reboot that received its initial announcement during 2020. The Initiative development team responsible for Perfect Dark has ceased operations entirely. Rare's Everwild project also faced termination during the recent restructuring wave. Turn 10 Studios experienced significant workforce reductions and reportedly transitioned into a support role for Forza Horizon development.
The union statement acknowledged the disappointment among developers and gaming community members who anticipated Project Blackbird. Media coverage and fan interest had generated expectations for the cancelled title. ZOS United-CWA expressed gratitude for external support during the transition period. Future layoffs remain possible as Microsoft finalizes operational changes. The union emphasized that organized labor efforts would ensure dignified departures for any affected workers.
