Riot Shuts Down Minecraft-Like Game Studio
- Riot Games is closing Hypixel Studios, the developer behind Hytale, a Minecraft-inspired game.
- The decision to end the project reflects the challenges in fulfilling the game's initial vision.
- Donaghey expressed gratitude to the team members who contributed to the game.
Riot Games shutters Hypixel Studios, ending development of the anticipated Minecraft-like game, Hytale, after almost a decade of work. The project, acquired in 2020, faced notable challenges, ultimately leading too its discontinuation despite considerable effort. While the Hytale dream concludes, the Hypixel server for Minecraft remains unaffected. This decision reflects the difficulty in realizing the enterprising vision, citing technical complexities. Riot Games is supporting affected staff. News directory 3 provides up-to-date coverage on this evolving story. What does this mean for the future of the gaming landscape? Discover what’s next …
Riot Games Shuts Down Hypixel Studios, Ending Hytale Development
Updated June 24, 2025
Riot Games is closing Hypixel Studios, the developer behind Hytale, a Minecraft-inspired game. The project,which has been in development for almost a decade,will be discontinued. Hypixel Studios was acquired by Riot Games in 2020 for an undisclosed amount. The closure is expected to occur ”over the next few months,” according to Hypixel CEO Aaron “Noxy” Donaghey.
The decision to end the project reflects the challenges in fulfilling the game’s initial vision. The studio faced difficulties in bringing hytale to life, despite extensive efforts and adaptations.
“After years of pushing forward,adapting,and exploring every possible path,it became clear we couldn’t bring Hytale to life in a way that truly delivered on it’s promise,” Donaghey saeid in a post on X.
Donaghey expressed gratitude to the team members who contributed to the game. He acknowledged the disappointment but emphasized the support being provided to those affected by the studio’s closure. The role of Riot in supporting the team was also highlighted.
Hytale‘s development began in 2015 by members of a popular Minecraft server network, operating as a small indie studio. A trailer released in 2018 generated meaningful interest. A beta version was initially planned for 2021, following Riot’s acquisition, but it never materialized. A major change to the game engine in 2021 further delayed development.
Technical complexities and the need for more development time contributed to the decision to halt the project. The team resolute that achieving the ambitious vision for Hytale would require a substantially extended timeline.
“Our technical ambitions grew more complex, and even after a major reboot of the game engine, the team found that hytale still wasn’t as far along as it needed to be,” Donaghey said.
The Hypixel server on Minecraft will not be affected by the studio closure. This server operates independently of Hypixel Studios. donaghey expressed appreciation for Riot’s support during the transition, noting that employees will receive severance packages and resources to aid in their job search.
What’s next
While Hytale‘s development has ended, Riot Games is providing support to the affected Hypixel Studios team members as they transition to new opportunities. The Hypixel Minecraft server will continue to operate independently.