Arkane Lyon union accuses Microsoft of sabotaging Marvel’s Blade

Studio union says Microsoft created the problems now threatening Arkane

The studio's French union has accused the company of deliberately undermining the game's development to create a reason to shut down the developer.

The STJV, which represents workers across France's games industry, insists the project is progressing well and remains on track to meet Arkane's usual standards. 

It blames a 19-month hiring freeze imposed by Microsoft for the delays and rising costs, arguing that the company is now using problems caused by its own decisions to justify closing the studio.

"Arkane is profitable. Just not profitable enough for Microsoft," the union said, questioning the financial sense of shutting down a developer when, in its view, completing the game could cost less.

It warned that closure "would probably be more expensive than finishing the game".

Meanwhile, Microsoft has extended the deadline for finding a buyer from mid-November to 13 December. 

Ubisoft is reportedly among the companies considering a takeover, although no agreement has been reached. The publisher is also restructuring its own studios into six "Creative Houses".

Union demands hefty payouts if the studio closes

Arkane Lyon was founded in 1999 and built its reputation with games such as Dishonored and Prey. 

It became part of Microsoft's gaming division in 2021, following the acquisition of its parent company, ZeniMax. 

However, the closure of Arkane's Austin branch in 2024 has raised concerns that the French studio could meet the same fate.

With its future still uncertain, the STJV wants employees to have a say in choosing a new owner and is seeking guarantees against redundancies for two years after any sale. 

If Microsoft cannot find a buyer and decides to close the studio, the union is demanding $223,000 (€200,000) in compensation for each employee, along with two years of financial support to help affected workers find new jobs.

Microsoft had not responded to the union's accusations at the time of writing.