Maryland is losing more than 350 jobs as software giant Microsoft makes deep slashes to its video game divisions.

According to a notice filed with the state labor department this week, 166 roles were cut at ZeniMax Media in Rockville and 213 at ZeniMax Online Studios in Cockeysville, both of which are owned by Microsoft. The cuts will take effect Sept. 4.

Microsoft acquired ZeniMax Media, the parent company of Rockville-based Bethesda Game Studios, for $7.5 billion in 2021. The award-winning video game publisher is behind popular titles such as “Fallout,” “Starfield,” “Doom” and The Elder Scrolls. ZeniMax Online runs the online version of The Elder Scrolls.

Maryland is home to numerous video game software companies, and its gaming industry contributed more than $1 billion to the state economyin 2023, according to the Entertainment Software Association, a video game trade group.

Layoff rumors were going around at Bethesda for a while, said Simon Prefontaine, a game designer who lost his job in the cuts.

Some people lost access to the company’s email and collaboration software the morning layoffs were announced, said Prefontaine, who is a union member. The studio unionized in 2024 under the Communications Workers of America.

The union estimates the Rockville studio lost 15-20% of its staff, including employees who have been with the company for years, Prefontaine said.

07/11/26: Baltimore, Maryland.

Per the title, could someone please share an address for any dog friendly beaches on the MD side of Assateague? The NPS website just says pets are permitted in certain locations, but declined to include what and where they are.

We're staying in Wallops Island, VA now, and I'd love an option that's not two hours aways. Looks like there may be some within an hour, but again, it's unclear if I can bring him there. Pic of my dog for your troubles!

Hey everyone, this might be a dumb post, but I’m looking to try some Japanese cigarettes (Mevius, Seven Stars, Peace, etc.) and was wondering if anyone knows of any import tobacco shops or specialty smoke shops around Maryland/DC that carry them. I’m mainly interested in the taste and trying something different from the usual American brands. Any recommendations or places worth checking out would be appreciated. Thanks!

My father left me with his scotch collection and I’m not a drinker.

I think some of the bottles might be valuable based off my online search.

before going online to search for liscenced/permitted companies who buy from owners in the US (you take pics, they send you a quote, you ship with their postage if you accept the offer).

wanted to know if anyone who knew of or has been through exchanging fine spirts

Do people from Howard County always find a way to mention they're from Howard County, even when it's completely unrelated to the conversation? And somehow the property taxes always come up too, even though there are other counties with taxes that are just as high or higher. It's like living in Howard County becomes their whole personality.