Fans of the 3D platformer Super Lucky’s Tale may be sad to hear that the developer behind the game, Playful Studios, has announced major layoffs. According to the Playful Studios announcement page, the company had to make the “incredibly difficult decision” to lay off a large number of the company’s full-time staff. The company has stated that the layoffs are a result of “continued changes in the global video game marketplace.”
The founders of Playful Studios Paul Bettner and Katy Drake Bettner have stated that the company intends to change its operating model, transitioning into “a more streamlined production model based on distributed game development and dynamic, project-based teams.” The couple has also stated that they are “truly heartbroken to be parting ways with many of our friends and colleagues. These are people who have poured their hearts into every game Playful has created, who have supported us and each other every step of the way, and have truly made this studio what it is today.” The founders have also promised to work with everyone affected by the layoffs to “help them move forward.”
The CEO of Gearbox Studios Randy Pitchford replied to the announcement on Twitter stating: “So sorry. I hear Gearbox is Hiring.” It is unknown how many people have been affected by the layoffs at this time, but the information is likely to be revealed at a later date. According to Gamespot, one member of Playful, Stephen Dupree, who was the developer behind the Metroid Prime series as well as Donkey Kong Country Returns and Donkey Kong Country: Tropical Freeze left the studio earlier this month and rejoined Retro Studios. It is currently unknown what he is developing at this time but it is possible that this information will be revealed at a later date.