Microsoft Gives Arkane Lyon Another Month to Avoid Closure
Microsoft has extended the consultation period surrounding Arkane Lyon's potential closure by one month, giving the French studio behind Marvel's Blade more time to explore a buyer or development partner.
The original deadline of November 13, 2026, has been moved to December 13, following requests from employee unions concerned about the future of the studio's 217 workers.
In a statement provided to PC Gamer, Microsoft confirmed the additional month would be used to examine alternatives, including finding a partner capable of supporting the remaining development work.
The company also stressed that documents describing a potential shutdown are part of France's legally required consultation process and do not represent a final decision.
Arkane Lyon's uncertain future was detailed in an October 23 investigation by Le Monde, which revealed that employees had been informed of a proposed closure in July.
Under France's Florange Law, large companies planning certain site closures must search for potential buyers before proceeding.
Unions have been pushing for more time to negotiate alternatives, including a possible takeover that could preserve the development team.
The situation also raises questions about Marvel's Blade, the upcoming action game announced in December 2023. Microsoft is seeking a partner to support its continued development and eventual commercial release.
Bloomberg journalist Jason Schreier has separately indicated that multiple potential routes to saving Arkane Lyon are being explored, although no agreement has been announced.
The extension provides additional time for negotiations but does not guarantee the studio's survival or establish a release date for Marvel's Blade.
