Microsoft Faces November 13 Deadline to Save Arkane Lyon and Marvel’s Blade

Microsoft is scrambling to sell Arkane Lyon by November 13. 217 jobs and Marvel’s Blade game are on the line. If Arkane Lyon closes, it could be a publisher looking for a big game to fail with its development seeming to be almost done. Gamers and the gaming world will be following the story very closely as it’s all up to Microsoft if a game is ever to be released.

Microsoft must find a buyer for the studio by November 13 to save 217 jobs and the game Marvel's Blade

French developer Arkane Lyon which is the studio that is at risk of closing is going through a formal consultation with French authorities. Microsoft has said they are communicating with the works council and employees during this time. They also are working hard to find a partner to allow for the next phase of the game’s development. Their focus is to get it to the point where it can be commercialized and doesn’t end up in some limbo state.

Le Monde was told by a union representative that it is believed to be close to the end of the production process for Marvel’s Blade. Arkane hasn’t confirmed this but the idea of it being close is very possible. If no sale is made by November, Microsoft will close the studio completely in Lyon sometime in late 2026 or early 2027.

Bloomberg’s Jason Schreier said there are several different avenues being looked at to save the studio. He said it would surprise him if the end result is Arkane Lyon closing. However, he also cautioned it’s a tight negotiation. Microsoft did confirm to Le Monde that they are still in a stage where they’re exploring options for the studio while going through the formal process in France.

At the end of the day, it’s all about whether they can find a new publisher to take on the Marvel Blade game before the end of the consultation. Microsoft is trying to find a partner to allow for the next phase of the game’s development so they can commercialize it. Will they save the studio? Will the game see the light of day?