Microsoft has long wanted to get rid of Ninja Theory. The studio was allowed to announce Senua to attract investors' attention - Media

It is unknown whether Microsoft's management informed the studio's staff about their cunning plan.

Ninja Theory, known for the Hellblade series, could have been at risk of closure or sale even before the official announcement of their new game, Senua. This is reported by Game File, citing a source familiar with Microsoft's internal processes.

Just ten days ago, the British studio unveiled Senua — the third installment in the Hellblade series, scheduled for release in 2027. However, shortly after the announcement, reports emerged that Ninja Theory, as well as other Microsoft-owned teams — Compulsion Games and Double Fine — might face significant changes, including closure.

According to Game File, at the time of Senua's showcase, Microsoft's management was already considering options to "wind down the studio's operations or part ways with it". The source claims that these plans existed even before the June Xbox presentation.

According to the publication, one of the reasons for announcing the new game could have been the desire to increase the studio's attractiveness to potential investors or buyers. However, it is unknown whether Ninja Theory employees were aware of such management plans.