As we previously reported on in our coverage of the Microsoft Layoffs, Xbox has been cutting down its employee numbers from many different studios as of late. Because these layoffs are ongoing, Bethesda has reportedly just cut funding for multiple studios, which is causing several unannounced projects to come crashing down or at least screeching to an indefinite halt.
One of the primary studios in question is Romero games, having just been stricken with numerous layoffs, consequently, means Bethesda will be pulling funding for an upcoming project that wasn’t quite off the block just yet. Romero Games is a small studio founded in 2015 that was set to develop a new and exciting FPS game but have now had to cancel the project. Romero Games isn’t alone in the layoffs, as the team revealed that other studios have had their funding pulled as well.
On social media, the guys at Romero Games wrote:
“We have some difficult news to share. Last night, we learned that our publisher has cancelled funding for our game along with several other unannounced projects at other studios. This was a strategic decision made at a high level within the publisher, well above our visibility or control. We deeply wish there had been something, anything, we could have done to prevent this outcome.
This Absolutely isn’t a reflection of our team’s work, performance, or the quality of the project itself. We hit every milestone on time, every time, consistently recieved high praise, and easily passed all our internal gates. We are incredibly proud of the work being done, and of the talented team behind it. The best we’ve worked with.
We’re currently evaluating next steps, and working quickly to support our team. Many of us have worked together for more than a decade, some for over 20 years. It’s an extremely difficult day, and we’re heartbroken it’s come to this. If you know of any opportunities or ways you can help our incredible team, please reach out. Thank you to everyone who’s offered support and kindness and encouragement during this difficult time.”
Bethesda has been one of the most recognizable companies hit by the mass layoffs by Microsoft, with 9000 employees under various subsidiaries and studios getting the axe. This has been a huge blow to many people, not just employees, but the fans of the projects that are being affected and fans of the studios who were creating these amazing experiences for us all. Upon notice on LinkedIn, staff members at the company have reported they are being made redundant, while others are also sharing that they’re at risk of being laid off.
While we wait to hear who has been affected directly at Bethesda and the studios under their umbrella, we will remain optimistic and bring you updates as the story unfolds.
Let us know how you guys are feeling by the latest layoffs in the comments below.
