Rare Boss To Become New Head Of Xbox Game Studios

Rare boss Craig Duncan is set to become the new leader over at Xbox Game Studios, with current XGS head Alan Hartman set to retire, per GamesIndustry.biz.

Hartman only took on the role in 2023 after leading Forza developer Turn 10 for a number of years. Duncan will go down a similar route, after heading up the Sea Of Thieves studio for over 10 years in Twycross, England.

Here's how Xbox's Matt Booty described Duncan's new role:

"In his new role, Craig 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."

This is a big job over at Team Green - it's a role that boss Phil Spencer once took on before graduating to Head of Xbox and eventually, CEO of Microsoft Gaming. We all want to see Xbox Game Studios thrive, and we wish Duncan and his team the best of luck leading them forward.