Following the mass layoffs at Microsoft earlier this year, a collective of former developers from ZeniMax has united to establish a worker-owned studio called Sackbird. This new initiative includes individuals who were previously involved with The Elder Scrolls Online and a scrapped MMO known as Blackbird. The studio has declared that it is in the process of creating an original game that will be available on both PC and consoles.
The Blackbird project was one of many titles that faced cancellation when Microsoft let go of around 9,000 employees in July. This decision prompted the ZeniMax Online Studios United union to fight for the job security of its members impacted by the layoffs. According to a report from Bloomberg, the Blackbird game was designed as a sci-fi noir-style third-person shooter incorporating loot mechanics and extensive vertical mobility.
The establishment of Sackbird signifies a fresh start for these developers, enabling them to pursue their zeal for game development within a cooperative and worker-owned framework. As they set out on this new path, the gaming community looks forward to the launch of their original title, which is expected to deliver new and creative experiences for players on various platforms.