Xbox Game Studios head Craig Duncan and chief of staff Louise O’Connor to depart

Xbox Game Studios head Craig Duncan will depart the organization this week after more than 18 months in the role, while Xbox Game Studios chief of staff Louise O’Connor will leave after more than 11 months.

Both Duncan and O’Connor joined Xbox Game Studios leadership from Rare. Duncan served as studio head of Rare from February 2011 to November 2024, before succeeding former Xbox Game Studios head Alan Hartman. O’Connor held roles at Rare including executive producer, incubation director, and art director from September 2012 to August 2025, before becoming Xbox Game Studios chief of staff.

“When I stepped into the role of leading [Xbox Game Studios] 20 months ago, my purpose was to serve our studios, our teams, and the people making our games,” Duncan said in an email to staff. “Together, we set out to deliver high-quality games, strengthen the cultural fabric across our studios, and help shape the future of the business. I’m proud to say we delivered many flawless launches that drove business success for the company.”

On O’Connor, he added, “Louise has been a thoughtful, creative, and trusted partner who has consistently championed the craft and supported our studios with clarity and care. I’m grateful for everything she’s brought to [Xbox Game Studios], and I’m sure she’ll be successful in whatever comes next for her.”

The studios overseen by Duncan will report directly to Xbox chief content officer Matt Booty until a replacement is found.

Thanks, The Game Business.