In August, reports emerged that Microsoft had paused development on Contraband, a co-op smuggler game from Just Cause developer Avalanche. At the time, some sources noted that Microsoft put a "hold" on production rather than a full cancellation. But now, Contraband's fate appears to be sealed as mass layoffs at Avalanche have resulted in the closure of its Liverpool studio.
Authorities announced the rollback of restrictions at nine California prisons following a surge of violence and drug-related incidents, but 12 prisons remain on lockdown.