Ultra Ambitious MMORPG Layoffs: 30,000 Job Cuts Announced
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Mass Layoffs Hit Gaming Industry: *Ashes of Creation*, *Tomb Raider* Developers Affected
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Major studios behind ambitious projects like *Ashes of Creation* and the *Tomb Raider* franchise are undergoing notable layoffs, signaling a challenging period for the gaming industry.This article details the specifics of these cuts, explores the underlying causes, and examines the potential impact on the future of game development.
*Ashes of Creation* Developer Intrepid Studios Announces Layoffs
Intrepid Studios,the team behind the highly anticipated MMORPG *Ashes of Creation*,has announced substantial layoffs impacting approximately 30% of its workforce. This news comes as a shock to many in the gaming community, given the long-awaited nature of the project and the significant investment it has attracted.
According to reports, the layoffs are a result of a strategic shift in the company’s funding model. Intrepid Studios had been relying on pre-sales and crowdfunding to finance development, but recent performance has not met expectations. The company is now seeking choice funding sources, including potential acquisition or investment.
Steven Sharif, CEO of Intrepid Studios, addressed the community in a lengthy statement, acknowledging the difficult decision and expressing commitment to completing *Ashes of Creation*. Though, the timeline for the game’s release remains uncertain. The statement emphasized a need to restructure and refocus resources on core development priorities.
*Tomb Raider* Developers at Crystal Dynamics and Eidos-Montréal Also Affected
Concurrently, Crystal Dynamics and Eidos-Montréal, the studios responsible for the *Tomb Raider* franchise, have also announced significant layoffs. These cuts are part of a broader restructuring effort following the collapse of a proposed acquisition by Embracer Group. The deal, which would have seen Square Enix sell Crystal Dynamics, Eidos-montréal, and Square Enix Montréal to Embracer, fell through in May 2023.
Approximately 15% of the workforce at Crystal Dynamics and Eidos-Montréal are affected by the layoffs. The cuts impact various departments, including development, marketing, and support. The studios are reportedly focusing on fewer,higher-priority projects,including the next mainline *Tomb raider* game.
The situation is complicated by the fact that Square Enix retains ownership of the *Tomb Raider* IP. Crystal Dynamics and Eidos-Montréal are operating as independent studios, but their future success is heavily reliant on the continued success of the franchise.