In a significant shift within the gaming industry, Craig Duncan is stepping into the role of head of Xbox Game Studios, succeeding Alan Hartman. According to reports from GI.biz, Hartman is set to retire from Microsoft in November, just a year after taking on the leadership position.
Craig Duncan’s New Role
Duncan, who has been with Rare since 2011, brings a wealth of experience to his new position. His career includes notable tenures at Sumo Digital and Midway, where he honed his skills in game development and studio management. In his new capacity, Duncan will oversee all of Microsoft’s first-party game studios, encompassing a diverse array of titles that do not fall under the Activision Blizzard and Bethesda umbrellas. He will report directly to Matt Booty, the president of Xbox game content and studios.
As Duncan transitions into his new role, Rare will see a change in leadership as well. Executive producer Joe Neate and studio director Jim Horth will take the reins at Rare, ensuring continuity and innovation within the studio.
Alan Hartman’s Legacy
Alan Hartman leaves behind a remarkable legacy at Microsoft, having established himself as a key figure in the gaming landscape. Best known as the founder of Turn 10, the studio behind the acclaimed Forza franchise, Hartman was promoted to Microsoft Corporate Vice President for the Forza and Fable franchises in 2021. His career at Microsoft began in 1988 as a contractor in the nascent CD-ROM group, and over the years, he has contributed to a plethora of projects, including the iconic Age of Empires and Brute Force.
Matt Booty praised Hartman’s contributions in a recent email to staff, highlighting his “innovation, dedication, and unwavering passion for gaming.” Under Hartman’s leadership, Turn 10 and Playground Games have delivered 13 Forza Motorsport and Forza Horizon titles, solidifying Forza’s reputation as one of the premier racing franchises globally. Furthermore, Hartman’s commitment to advancing accessibility in gaming has set a new standard within the industry.
As Hartman departs, Xbox Game Studios continues to thrive, having released multiple critically acclaimed titles this year and laying the groundwork for highly anticipated upcoming games, including Avowed, South of Midnight, and Fable.
