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Amid the economic recession concerns and serious job cuts, Microsoft is also planning on shutting down its ACES Studio, which is responsible for its long-standing Flight Simulator series. According to Gamasutra, the studio has been seriously hit by layoffs. Microsoft confirmed the information to IGN.
Kelda Rericha of Edelman, the firm handling Microsoft’s public relations, said in a statement that the decision was made to align (their) people against (their) highest priorities. Rericha also added:
We are committed to the Flight Simulator franchise which has proven to be a successful PC based game for the last 27 years. You should expect us to continue to invest in enabling great LIVE experiences on Windows, including flying games, but we have nothing specific to announce at this time.
Microsoft’s Flight Simulator series is among its best-known creations, with a history that dates back to the early 1980s. The Flight Simulator X, which is the most recent version of it, was released in 2006 in two versions.
The company recently announced that it will be cutting 5,000 jobs over a period of 18 months. During a conference call with reporters, while detailing the second quarter earnings (ended December 31, 2008), Steve Ballmer said Microsoft is not immune to the effects of the economy.
Microsoft will start by cutting 1,400 jobs at its ACES Studio, but their plan also includes reducing headcount related expenses, vendors and contingent capital, capital expenditures and marketing. Ballmer said the situation should re-bounce in one or two years from no. When that happens, Microsoft will most certainly be ready to seize the opportunity.
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