Overview

• King cut about 200 roles in level design, UX, user research and narrative copywriting as part of Microsoft’s recent gaming-division layoffs.
• Affected staff say the AI playtesting and level-tweaking tools they trained are now automating their former jobs.
• An internal memo outlines plans to expand AI deployment, reduce management layers and simplify operations starting in September.
• Internal surveys report employee morale at an all-time low, with staff criticizing King’s HR practices and decision-making.
• Union talks are ongoing as employees await a new organizational chart and clarity on future staffing plans.