Mike Ybarra defends Phil Spencer amid online criticism
Microsoft has announced that it’s shutting down Redfall developer Arkane Austin, The Evil Within and Ghostwire: Tokyo developer Tango Gameworks — yes, the same Tango Gameworks that gave us one of the best games of 2023, Hi-Fi Rush — Mighty Doom’s Alpha Dog Games, and Roundhouse Studios. The news came as a surprising blow, drawing criticism from across the industry, with many condemning Microsoft and Phil Spencer for the terrible decision.
Amid the backlash from fans and other developers, Mike Ybarra has defended Spencer, however, drawing on the many years the pair have known each other.
“I see a lot of shots at Phil over today’s Xbox announcements,” Ybarra shared on X. “I get it. But knowing him as a human, I know this hurts him as much as anyone else. I can’t speak for all of the leadership there, but I do know him and I do know what he is likely going through.
“I’m not trying to defend the decisions. I think we all get ourselves into situations that are tough and unexpected (certainly I have). It’s part of the job, as is the accountability for the outcomes. But he’s a good human and he cares deeply for the creative process and developers. That’s my first-hand experience in working closely with him for 8+ years and knowing him for 24+.
“I 100% understand the anger and confusion, and I feel deeply sorry for those teams impacted today and over the last few months. I didn’t agree with every decision he made at Xbox, and I think that was pretty clear, but I do believe in his product leadership and I know how hard these decisions can be.
“Xbox could have a very bright future. I hope they are able to realize it and all of the teams have an incredible experience together. It’s certainly a tough time that needs great clarity into what the plan ahead is and how gamers everywhere can be excited for it.”
Alongside the news that Microsoft is closing these studios, it was also revealed that Redfall won’t receive any more updates, which means we won’t be getting the missing Hero Pass that has been promised since the game launched.
