Following a significant wave of layoffs and game cancellations by Microsoft earlier this year, including the much-discussed Project Blackbird, an ambitious MMO described as a fusion of Cyberpunk 2077 and Destiny, its core development team has found a new path. These former creators from The Elder Scrolls Online have now come together to form an independent, employee-owned studio named Sackbird Studios.
Sackbird Studios announced its formation on its official website, emphasizing that it is self-funded for several years, deliberately avoiding outside investors. This financial independence is key to their mission: to maintain full creative control over the games they develop.
David Worley, Chief Creative Officer at Sackbird Studios, stated, “After years in AAA, we yearned for the freedom to take smart risks without the constant pressure of greenlighting processes or chasing quarterly targets. Being fully employee-owned and funded means we are accountable only to those who truly love games.”
Lee Ridout, CEO of Sackbird, added, “We deeply value our experiences at ZeniMax Online Studios; it shaped us as developers and as people. However, when Project Blackbird was canceled and many lost their jobs, it ignited a spark within us. We realized the best way to safeguard our craft—and our team—was to build a studio where creative independence is non-negotiable.”
Currently, the studio comprises fewer than ten employees. While Sackbird Studios isn’t yet ready to unveil its debut project, they confirmed it will be an original title launching on PC and consoles. The team is dedicated to delivering “bold, character-driven experiences unburdened by corporate compromises.”