Recently, ZeniMax Online Studios made the tough decision to cancel its MMO shooter known as Project Blackbird, which had been under development since 2018. Despite some positive initial feedback, including from Phil Spencer, the project fell victim to Microsoft’s recent staffing cuts.

In response to this unfortunate news, some of the affected developers have taken the initiative to establish a new studio named Sackbird. The team aims to reclaim creative independence by operating without outside investors, thereby retaining full creative control. “After years in AAA, we wanted the freedom to take smart risks without waiting for a greenlight or chasing quarterly targets,” stated David Worley, the studio’s COO.

The founding group encompasses ten members, including both former Project Blackbird developers and key contributors to The Elder Scrolls Online. Lee Ridout, Sackbird’s CEO, expressed gratitude for their experiences at ZeniMax, acknowledging that while their previous roles shaped them as professionals, the cancellation of Blackbird ignited a desire for a new path. Sackbird Studios is currently in active development on an undisclosed game for PC and console, with a commitment to sustainable development and employee-owned principles.