Microsoft extends Arkane Lyon closure consultation to Dec. 13

Microsoft has extended its consultation on closing Arkane Lyon by one month, PC Gamer reports. Insider Gaming, Push Square and Output Lag put the new date at Dec. 13, moved from Nov. 13. Microsoft's own statement says only "one additional month." PC Gamer says the unions had sought the extension.

What Microsoft says

A Microsoft representative told PC Gamer: "We have extended the consultation period by one additional month as we explore options, including finding a partner to support the studio through the development work still ahead... This is a defined extension, and we remain committed to keeping the Works Council informed throughout the process."

On the documents that reference the planned closure, the same representative said they "are part of the required consultation process and do not represent a final decision."

Jobs and Marvel's Blade

Le Monde puts the number of jobs at risk at 217, a figure relayed by PC Gamer, Frandroid and IGN France. A union representative told Le Monde that Marvel's Blade is near the end of production. PC Gamer's sources say the game still has years to go. Both are claims, and Microsoft has not said how far along the game is.

French law

Frandroid and IGN France note that France's Florange law requires groups with more than 1,000 employees that want to close a site to seek a buyer for three months. It does not oblige a sale, and it does not set the Dec. 13 date.

Earlier report: Arkane Lyon has until November 13 to find a buyer or close, union says (https://thecircuitry.to/article/arkane-lyon-has-until-november-13-to-find-a-buyer-or-close-union-says-mvl6hxgj)

Sources: PC Gamer (https://www.pcgamer.com/gaming-industry/time-could-be-running-out-for-arkane/); Insider Gaming (https://insider-gaming.com/arkane-lyon-has-been-given-an-extra-month-to-find-a-buyer/); Push Square; Output Lag; Le Monde via Frandroid and IGN France.