Xbox insists boss Phil Spencer is not retiring anytime soon

Published: Thursday, July 3, 2025 at 9:03 am

Microsoft Denies Rumors of Xbox Head Phil Spencer's Retirement

Microsoft has swiftly refuted reports circulating online that Xbox CEO Phil Spencer is planning to retire. The tech giant issued a firm denial following claims that Spencer, who currently leads Microsoft Gaming, was preparing to step down. The rumors, which emerged amidst Microsoft's recent wave of layoffs, suggested a succession plan involving Sarah Bond.

Frank Shaw, Microsoft's head of communications, initially dismissed the claims on X, followed by a formal statement to The Verge reiterating that Spencer has no immediate plans to retire. Spencer, who has been with Microsoft since 1988, joined the Xbox team in 2001. He rose through the ranks, becoming general manager of Microsoft Studios in 2008 and later leading Xbox, Xbox Live, and other related divisions in 2014. In 2022, Spencer was promoted to CEO of Microsoft Gaming, coinciding with Microsoft's acquisition of Activision Blizzard.

The denial comes as Microsoft announced significant layoffs, impacting over 9,000 employees. The company has also made decisions regarding several game projects. The reboot of *Perfect Dark* has been cancelled, and The Initiative has been closed. Rare's *Everwild* has also been cancelled, and several senior developers have left the studio. Matt Firor, the head of ZeniMax Online Studios, is also departing amid the cancellation of *Project Blackbird*.

BNN's Perspective: While the rumors of Spencer's retirement appear unfounded, the timing of these reports alongside significant layoffs and project cancellations raises questions about the overall direction and stability within Microsoft's gaming division. The company's swift denial suggests a desire to maintain confidence in its leadership and future strategy. The industry will be watching closely to see how Microsoft navigates these changes and continues to compete in the evolving gaming landscape.

Keywords: Phil Spencer, Xbox, Microsoft, Retirement, Layoffs, Microsoft Gaming, Sarah Bond, Activision Blizzard, Perfect Dark, Everwild, ZeniMax Online Studios, Project Blackbird, Gaming Industry

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