"When I stepped into the role of leading XGS 20 months ago, my purpose was to serve our studios, our teams, and the people making our games."
Craig Duncan, head of Xbox Game Studios, has left the role after more than 18 months. He was appointed in November 2024, succeeding Alan Hartman, and oversaw 17 studios plus XGS Publishing. Until a replacement is found, the studios will report to Matt Booty, Xbox Chief Content Officer.
Duncan has been with Xbox since 2011 and previously ran Rare for nearly 14 years, overseeing its Kinect and Sea of Thieves eras. Earlier in his career, he held senior roles at Codemasters, Midway, and Sumo Digital. He is also VP of the charity SpecialEffect.
Louise O’Connor Also Departs
Louise O’Connor, chief of staff at Xbox Game Studios, is also leaving. O’Connor joined Rare in 1999 as an animator on Conker’s Bad Fur Day and worked on various games, including voicing Leafos in Viva Piñata. She left Rare after the cancellation of Everwild in 2025 and became chief of staff in September 2025.
Duncan’s Statement to Staff
In an email to staff, Duncan stated:
"Together, we set out to deliver high-quality games, strengthen the cultural fabric across our studios, and help shape the future of the business. I’m proud to say we delivered many flawless launches that drove business success for the company."
On O’Connor, he added:
"Louise has been a thoughtful, creative, and trusted partner who has consistently championed the craft and supported our studios with clarity and care. I’m grateful for everything she’s brought to XGS, and I’m sure she’ll be successful in whatever comes next for her."