Xbox Game Studios head Alan Hartman will retire at the end of November, ending 30 years of work at Microsoft. Succeeding him is Craig Duncan, studio head of Rare, which was acquired by Microsoft in 2002. To replace Duncan's eventual departure from the studio, Joe Neate and Jim Horth will take over as co-heads of Rare, as seen. in an internal memo seen by The edge:
In his new role, Craig will continue to focus on helping our studios deliver high-quality, differentiated gaming experiences that can become successful franchises and reach more players by investing in new intellectual property. Craig will report to me and join the Game Content and Studios leadership team, working closely with Alan during the transition. The existing XGS leadership team that Alan established will remain intact and will report to Craig.
I am also pleased to announce that Joe Neate and Jim Horth will be taking over as co-directors of Rare. Their leadership has played a crucial role in the growth of Rare and I am confident that they will elevate the studio and its games to even greater heights.
Interestingly, Hartman had only been in his position as head of Xbox Game Studios for less than a year. Hartman led Forza Motorsport developer Turn 10 for nearly two decades before taking over last year. His retirement is somewhat surprising, but since it is not due to any controversy at the company, it is likely that he only wants to retire after 30 years at Microsoft.
This change of bosses comes about a month after Microsoft. These layoffs are related to its decision in 2022 to acquire . While no games are being cancelled, this change in bosses may mean a change in Xbox Game Studios' future plans.
