Published:2024-10-04 12:05:08Source:JuxiaAuthor:Juxia
Hi-Rez Studios, the creator behind Smite, has recently implemented layoffs across its various subsidiaries, including Alacrity Arthouse, Evil Mojo Games, and Red Beard Games. The specific number of job cuts has not been disclosed.
The gaming industry has seen tens of thousands of job losses in recent years as companies restructure to cut costs amid an ongoing economic downturn. Major developers like Bungie, a first-party Sony studio, and smaller studios such as Surgent Studios, known for Tales of Kenzera: Zau, have been affected. Ubisoft has also faced repeated layoffs during this tumultuous time. In this latest development, Hi-Rez Studios joins the ranks of companies grappling with the uncertainties of the industry.
In a recent Twitter post, CEO Stewart Chisam announced that an undisclosed number of employees would be let go, affecting team members from Hi-Rez's subsidiaries, including Evil Mojo Games, Titan Forge Games, and G&A. Chisam described these changes as "difficult but necessary," aimed at ensuring a "long sustainable future" for the upcoming MOBA game, Smite 2.
Chisam emphasized that the layoffs were not directed at any specific department, impacting various roles across marketing, publishing, and development. The affected employees primarily belong to the “game team,” responsible for cosmetic skins and system features.
With this announcement, Hi-Rez Studios becomes another company in the gaming sector to implement layoffs this year, alongside Insomniac Games, Ubisoft Toronto, Gearbox, and others. Taking accountability, Chisam described the decision as “heartbreaking,” attributing it to “a failure in my leadership” rather than any shortcomings of the employees affected.
Elaborating on the reasons behind the layoffs, Chisam stated that Hi-Rez intends to concentrate most of its resources on Smite 2, which is currently in early access. Small teams will continue to provide light updates for the studio's other titles, including Smite and Paladins.
Chisam noted that the team working on Smite 2 is "larger than the Smite 1 team was throughout most of its lifecycle." He expressed the studio's ambition to deliver the "best possible game experience" for Smite 2, with hopes for the game’s longevity extending well into the 2030s. The developers are also focused on improving the migration process for Smite 1 Gods to Smite 2 while aiming to meet "player expectations."
As another studio announces layoffs, the gaming industry appears to be navigating one of its most challenging phases in recent memory. This trend, coupled with the rising number of big-budget titles like Star Wars: Outlaws and Concord that have failed to meet expectations, makes the landscape even more difficult for studios. At this point, it remains uncertain when the wave of layoffs will begin to subside.
Marvel Tōkon: Fighting Souls – A New 4v4 Anime-Style Fighting Game from the Developers of Guilty Gea
Black Myth: Wukong Xbox Series X|S Release Date Confirmed for August 20, 2025 — Plus 20% Off Sale Ac
The Witcher IV: Ciri Leads, Unreal Engine 5.6 Powers a 60FPS Open-World Masterpiece
Genshin Impact Skirk Guide (5.7): Release Date, Ascension Materials, Best Weapons & Team Builds
Genshin Impact 5.7 Special Preview: Skirk & Traveler’s Chapter Reveal on June 6, 2025
BAKUDO: The Ultimate Ball Combat Sport – A Battle of Belief and Determination
NIKKE x Stellar Blade Special Livestream Scheduled for June 7, 2025
Persona 5: The Phantom X Launches Globally on June 26, 2025
Camp Hill Range Full Walkthrough & Gameplay Guide | Tips, Secrets & Strategy
Crave Saga X Characters and Weapon Tier List 2025
Waifu Slut School iOS
| Casual
Waifu Slut School Android
| Casual
Waifu Slut School Mod
| Casual
My Naughty Neighbor Game
| Casual
雀愿
| Puzzle
Spades Classic Card Game Online
| Card
Spades Classic Card Game iOS
| Card
Spades Classic Card Game Mod
| Card
Genshin Impact 5.7 Special Preview: Skirk & Traveler’s Chapter Reveal on June 6, 2025
BAKUDO: The Ultimate Ball Combat Sport – A Battle of Belief and Determination
NIKKE x Stellar Blade Special Livestream Scheduled for June 7, 2025
Persona 5: The Phantom X Launches Globally on June 26, 2025
Kamihime Project Tier List 2025: Top Characters & Best Teams
Coin Dozer: 10 Tips Every Beginner Should Know
How to Play Blackjack: 10 Steps from Beginner to Pro
Texas Hold’em: Learn the Rules, Hands, and Strategy in 10 Minutes
Texas Hold’em for Beginners: How to Play and Win
LIVE A HERO
Retro Hero Mr Kim
Empire of Passion
Arcane Quest Legends
Magic Snap: Momotaro
AllStar Manga Heroes
Lunescape
ONE PIECE Thousand Storm JP
Tap Titans 2