Ori Developer CEO Thomas Mahler Criticizes Xbox's Legacy Focus Amid Industry Turbulence
Thomas Mahler, CEO of Moon Studios, developer of the Ori series, has commented on recent challenges facing Xbox, stating the company's difficulties began years ago by prioritizing legacy intellectual property (IP) over cultivating new games and developers. Mahler, whose studio previously partnered with Xbox Game Studios, noted a continued focus on franchises like Halo, Gears, and Forza even as gamer enthusiasm for these series reportedly waned after their original developers moved on. His remarks come amidst reports that Microsoft's gaming division, under new boss Asha Sharma, plans cost-cutting measures, including layoffs and potential studio closures such as Compulsion Games, Double Fine, and Ninja Theory.
Thomas Mahler, CEO of Moon Studios, the developer behind "Ori and the Blind Forest" and "Ori and the Will of the Wisps," has offered his perspective on the recent turbulence within Xbox.
Mahler claimed that Xbox's struggles originated years ago when its strategic focus leaned heavily on protecting legacy IP rather than nurturing the next generation of games and creative talent. Despite Moon Studios' work with Xbox Game Studios on the Ori titles, Mahler stated that the primary focus remained on established franchises such as Halo, Gears, and Forza.
He observed that excitement around Halo and Gears had reportedly cooled following the departures of Bungie and Epic from those franchises, and newer installments did not replicate their original cultural impact. Mahler suggested that new franchises like Ori could have contributed to a fresh era for Xbox, engaging younger generations of gamers.
Mahler's comments coincide with reported plans by Microsoft's gaming division to implement cost-cutting measures. These plans, described as part of a "reset" under new Xbox boss Asha Sharma, reportedly include staff layoffs and the potential closure of studios such as Compulsion Games, Double Fine, and Ninja Theory. Mahler indicated he was not surprised by the ongoing turbulence.
Mahler proposed that Xbox needs to identify, empower, and safeguard key creative individuals and teams to maintain its market position. He expressed that nostalgia alone is insufficient to sustain player excitement, advocating for a focus on people who are passionate about gaming and understand their audience. Were he in charge, Mahler stated he would "slim down" Xbox and work to "bring back the passion for gaming."
He concluded that Xbox possesses significant potential, stating it is capable of producing superior games compared to its competitors. He emphasized the necessity of placing the right individuals in leadership roles to steer the company's direction.
According to GameSpot, Mahler believes Xbox is an "absolute goldmine" that requires the right people to unlock its full potential.
