Xbox Layoffs Force Slower ESO Updates at ZeniMax Online
ZeniMax Online Studios was hit hard by Xbox layoffs, canceling Project Blackbird and prompting founder Matt Firor’s departure; the studio pivoted Elder Scrolls Online to a seasonal live-service cadence. Season One has launched, but Morgan Goin says the update pace will slow due to staffing gaps and the in-house engine, with contractors unlikely to bridge the gap. ESO remains financially strong with over $2 billion in lifetime revenue.