Back to today’s briefing

Story perspectives

Microsoft's Project Blackbird Canceled After Leaked Cyberpunk Footage

1/19/2026

45 7

Summary

Story summary

Microsoft canceled Project Blackbird, a game from The Elder Scrolls Online developers, in July 2025.
A two-minute leaked clip surfaced, shared by leaker eXtas1s and confirmed by Tom Henderson.
The footage displays a cyberpunk aesthetic with neon visuals and heavily-suited soldiers and vertical movement across levels.
Its cancellation prompted significant changes within the studio, including the departure of one of its bosses.

1 of 1

Story summary

Microsoft canceled Project Blackbird, a game from The Elder Scrolls Online developers, in July 2025.
A two-minute leaked clip surfaced, shared by leaker eXtas1s and confirmed by Tom Henderson.
The footage displays a cyberpunk aesthetic with neon visuals and heavily-suited soldiers and vertical movement across levels.
Its cancellation prompted significant changes within the studio, including the departure of one of its bosses.