Hi-Rez Studios, the developer behind popular titles Smite and Paladins, has announced a round of layoffs as part of an internal reorganization and reprioritization. The move, confirmed by CEO Stewart Chisam, aims to ensure the company’s long-term success.
Layoffs Impact Key Teams
The job cuts will disproportionately affect marketing and publishing roles, as well as staff at Hi-Rez’s Evil Mojo, G&A, and Titan Forge divisions. Cosmetic skin content and system features teams will also be impacted.
A “Heartbreaking Decision”
Chisam acknowledged the human impact of the layoffs, stating, “Each impacted individual is a talented and dedicated professional who has poured their heart and soul into our games. Letting them go is a heartbreaking decision, reflects a failure in my leadership, and one for which I take personal accountability.”
Smite 2 Takes Center Stage
Hi-Rez will concentrate its efforts entirely on Smite 2, prioritizing gameplay development, new modes, gods, and quality improvements. Cosmetic and monetization features have been delayed. Small teams will continue to release “light updates” for Paladins and Smite 1.
A Sustainable Future for Smite 2
“Our goal for Smite 2 in the near term is to create the best possible game experience for our community and a game that provides joy to players and can sustain itself long into the 2030s,” Chisam explained.
Hi-Rez will concentrate its efforts entirely on Smite 2, prioritizing:
1. Gameplay development
2. New modes
3. Gods
4. Quality improvements
Industry Trends
The layoffs are part of a larger trend in the gaming industry, which has seen over 12,000 job losses in 2024 alone. Experts analyze the circumstances leading to these cuts.
Conclusion
Hi-Rez Studios’ restructuring reflects the evolving gaming landscape. As the company adapts, fans and players will be watching closely. The success of Smite 2 will be crucial in determining the studio’s future trajectory.