A recent MobileGamer.biz exposé revealed widespread turmoil at King, the gaming studio behind Candy Crush, following Microsoft’s elimination of over 200 roles amid broader corporate downsizing. Employees allege that abrupt terminations, unclear decision-making, and enforced reliance on automation tools have fueled distrust.

Staff reductions, framed as streamlining excess management and inefficiencies, drew skepticism from insiders. “Experience and past achievements didn’t shield anyone,” remarked an anonymous developer. “Protocols for evaluating performance were ignored.” Multiple sources noted baffling patterns, including rehiring recently dismissed personnel and suspicions that seniority or salaries influenced cuts more than stated reasons.

Compounding frustrations, Microsoft reportedly imposed strict quotas for daily AI adoption across all roles. “Targets escalated from 80% to 100% AI integration for routine tasks—no exceptions,” shared one team lead. Critics argue this push prioritizes cost-cutting over creativity, with automation replacing human roles rather than enhancing them.

Leadership culture also came under fire. Anonymous surveys allegedly tied feedback to identities, discouraging honesty. “Managers demanded names behind critiques, instilling fear of retaliation,” said an ex-employee. Others accused HR of shielding problematic executives while sidelining whistleblowers. “Those who spoke up faced pressure to stay quiet or leave,” added another.

Speculation persists about additional layoffs, with insiders describing morale as “crumbling” due to erratic leadership and dwindling job security. As studios across the industry grapple with similar upheavals, the long-term impact of replacing skilled teams with algorithms remains uncertain—and deeply concerning.