Last July, Microsoft Gaming carried out a large number of layoffs following the cancellation of certain projects. Among the titles that were abandoned was Project Blackbird. This was an MMORPG developed by ZeniMax Online Studios (The Elder Scrolls Online).
Shortly after this announcement, Matt Firor, who was then studio director, officially announced his departure. About six months later, he spoke out on LinkedIn. He confirmed that the cancellation of the game was indeed the reason behind his decision to resign.
“Answering the second-most common question – about what led my leaving ZOS – the most obvious explanation is the correct one. Project Blackbird was the game I had waited my entire career to create, and having it canceled led to my resignation. My heart and thoughts are always with the impacted team members, many of whom I had worked 20+ years with, and all of whom were the most dedicated, amazingly talented group of developers in the industry.”
Firor is currently advising on certain projects and startups in the industry on an unofficial basis. He is not directly involved in projects launched by former members of ZeniMax Online Studios.
https://www.linkedin.com/posts/matt-firor-092310_as-2025-draws-to-a-close-i-want-to-take-activity-7412202293737046016-wDza?utm_source=share& utm_medium=member_desktop&rcm=ACoAABSIKSEBSoc3Opg64Sq00YfumD2hdfCP9Ag
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Author: 360 Technology Group
