Artificer Faces Layoffs: Half of Studio’s Employees Affected
According to a report from Kotaku, Artificer, the Polish game studio behind Showgunners and acquired by Devolver Digital a couple of years ago, experienced layoffs this week.
Approximately 25 Employees Let Go
The initial wave of layoffs reportedly affected around 25 people. However, another 10-12 employees are expected to be let go in the following months after completing polishing work on Artificer’s next game.
Impact on Upcoming Game Unknown
Despite the layoffs, it seems that the upcoming title may not be significantly delayed. Artificer has been tight-lipped about the new game’s details.
Devolver Digital and Artificer Remain Silent
As of now, neither Devolver Digital nor Artificer have issued an official statement regarding the layoffs.
Background on Artificer and Showgunners
Artificer is a studio best known for creating the turn-based tactics game, Showgunners. The game, which launched last year and maintains ‘Very Positive’ ratings on Steam, is praised for its stylish art design and XCOM-like gameplay.
Devolver Digital’s Successful Publisher
Devolver Digital is a publisher known for indie hits like The Talos Principle 2 and Cult of the Lamb, which recently added an expansion, Sins of the Flesh. Devolver Digital’s games are often comedic, innovative, and successful.
Industry-Wide Layoffs: A Trend in 2024
The Artificer layoffs are not an isolated incident. In recent months, other gaming companies have also announced significant reductions in their workforce, including Black Forest Games (Destroy All Humans remakes) and Microsoft.
Artificer’s Remaining Staff to Continue Working
Despite the layoffs, Kotaku’s report indicates that Artificer’s remaining staff will stick around to work on their next game. The studio is unlikely to face outright closure anytime soon.
More Insider Gaming News
For more gaming news, check out Hideo Kojima’s new game announcement at PlayStation’s State of Play this week.
