A union representing workers at Arkane Lyon has accused Microsoft of "sabotaging" the development of Marvel's Blade. The STJV trade union stated that while the game's production itself is proceeding adequately, the studio faces "harsh reality" due to potential closure by its parent company for financial reasons.
The union contends that a 19-month hiring freeze imposed by Microsoft artificially delayed the project and increased its costs. According to the STJV, shutting down Arkane Lyon would ultimately be more expensive than completing Marvel's Blade, attributing the studio's precarious situation to Microsoft's "never-ending search for maximum profit optimization." The union argues that Arkane Lyon is profitable, though perhaps not to Microsoft's desired level.
Demands from the union include employee protections and giving workers a voice in the selection of a potential buyer for Arkane. In line with French labor laws, Arkane Lyon has been undergoing a consultation period since Xbox initiated its studio restructuring earlier this year, and has been granted an additional month to secure a buyer before facing closure. Reports indicate that at least three companies, including Ubisoft, have submitted bids to acquire the studio.
Arkane Lyon is best known for its work on the Dishonored series, as well as Deathloop. The studio's sister team in Austin, which developed Prey and Redfall, was closed by Microsoft in 2024. Marvel's Blade was announced at The Game Awards 2023, but aside from concept art depicting its Paris setting, details about the game have been scarce, leaving its future and that of its developer uncertain.