Following rumors last week, a spokesperson for Danish developer IO Interactive has confirmed that the studio has had to cut some of its staff. Although the Square Enix owned developer would not specify the number of employees laid off, sources told Kotaku that it was around 30 or so people.
"I can confirm that we have made some internal changes at IO Interactive which has regrettably resulted in the loss of some jobs," a rep said in a statement. "This is a natural part of any studio's existence when you ramp-up and ramp-down on projects to ensure you have the right level of resource and expertise within the studio. We genuinely wish those who have been affected by this, the best of luck for the future."
This is the second time this year that the Kane & Lynch developer has been hit with layoffs. Back in March, around 35 employees were let go. For the latest round of cuts, sources said the blame was placed on slow sales of Kane & Lynch 2: Dog Days (which released over the summer) and declining sales of previous titles as well.
Additionally, it's been rumored that an unnamed project at the studio has been canceled alongside the layoffs, according to 3DRealms lead George Broussard. It could be the rumored Hitman 5, or something else entirely.
1 Comments
November 1, 2010
It seems to be coming a very easy equation these days for studios. Develop a hit title or a game that is profitable and keep your job. The bitter pill is when a studio develops a critically acclaimed and fan admired game that does not turn a profit.