XBOX Game Studios head Craig Duncan announced that he is leaving his position after more than 18 months, and Louise O'Connor is also departing after 11 months. Both Duncan and O'Connor came to XBOX from Rare, where Duncan was the head from February 2011 to November 2024, succeeding Alan Hartman at XBOX. O'Connor was an executive producer and head of the art department at Rare from September 2012 to August 2025, when she became head of employees at XBOX.
"When I took on the leadership role at XBOX Game Studios 20 months ago, my goal was to serve our studios, teams, and people who develop games. Together, we embarked on a mission to create high-quality titles, empower our teams, and shape the future. I am proud of the releases we made that brought success to XBOX." Duncan said in an email to employees.
He added about O'Connor: "Louise has been a thoughtful, creative, and reliable partner who has continuously honed her skills and supported the studios with care. I am grateful for everything she has brought, and I am confident she will be successful in whatever she does next."
Until a replacement is found, the studios led by Duncan will be taken over by Matt Booty.
