The recent cancellation of ZeniMax Online Studios’ upcoming MMO game, part of Microsoft’s recent job cuts affecting around 9,000 employees, has sparked strong reactions from the development community.

The ZeniMax Online Studios United union is currently in discussions with the company about future steps after the cancellation of an MMO project reported to be a Destiny-style shooter that Phil Spencer was particularly fond of. The union expressed their intention to “move forward” following this unexpected development.

The layoffs were initially announced due to ongoing evaluations of the business, highlighting how even promising projects are affected by structural changes. Several other notable titles, including the Everwild and Perfect Dark reboot, have also been scrapped due to these sweeping cuts.

The disappointment was palpable among developers, many of whom believed in the potential of the game. A statement from the union indicated: > “Undoubtedly, a future has been stolen from many of us and our community will never experience an amazing game.”

Despite ongoing talks about the future, the union confirmed that no member has been laid off yet, providing a sliver of hope amid the situation.