Craig Duncan Takes Over as Head of Xbox Game Studios

In a significant shift within the gaming industry, Xbox Game Studios is set to welcome a new leader as Craig Duncan, the head of Rare, takes over from Alan Hartman, who is retiring this November. This change marks a new chapter for Xbox Game Studios, which has been at the forefront of game development under Hartman’s leadership.

Alan Hartman has had a remarkable career at Microsoft, spanning over three decades. He began his journey in 1988 as a contractor in the CD-ROM group and eventually rose to become the head of Xbox Game Studios in November 2023. Hartman has played a pivotal role in the development of iconic games, including the beloved Forza Motorsport series. In a heartfelt LinkedIn post, he reflected on his time at Microsoft, stating, "I was able to take a lifelong love of playing games and make it a career." His contributions have left an indelible mark on the gaming community.

As Hartman prepares to step down, Craig Duncan is poised to take the reins. Duncan, who has been instrumental in the success of Rare, the studio behind the popular game Sea of Thieves, is expected to bring a wealth of experience to his new role. Microsoft’s president of game content and studios, Matt Booty, expressed confidence in Duncan’s ability to lead, emphasizing that he will focus on delivering high-quality, unique gaming experiences that can evolve into successful franchises. Booty stated, "[Duncan] will continue to focus on helping our studios deliver high-quality, differentiated game experiences that can grow into successful franchises and reach more players by investing in new IP."

In a strategic move, Joe Neate and Jim Horth will step in as co-leaders of Rare, ensuring a smooth transition and continuity in the studio’s operations. This leadership change comes at a time when Xbox Game Studios is gearing up for an exciting lineup of upcoming games, including titles like Avowed, Clockwork Revolution, and Fable. Hartman expressed his pride in the achievements of the studios and his excitement for the future, stating, "I have so much anticipation and confidence in what all of our studios are creating and I am excited by what these teams will accomplish with Craig Duncan as the new head of Xbox Game Studios."

This leadership transition at Xbox Game Studios is not just a change in personnel; it represents a commitment to innovation and excellence in the gaming industry. As Craig Duncan takes on this new challenge, gamers around the world will be watching closely to see how his vision shapes the future of Xbox Game Studios. With a strong foundation laid by Hartman and a talented team ready to support Duncan, the future looks bright for Xbox and its dedicated fanbase.