People Can Fly, the studio behind notable games such as Outriders, has become the latest developer to announce layoffs as the gaming industry continues to face widespread challenges. In a social media post, CEO Sebastian Wojciechowski revealed that over 120 employees will be impacted as the company undergoes significant restructuring.
Restructuring Amid Market Pressures
Wojciechowski explained that the studio is reducing its self-publishing ambitions by suspending Project Victoria, scaling down the team working on Project Bifrost, and restructuring various support teams within the company. These moves come as a response to “external market pressures” that exceeded the studio’s expectations.
“The video game market is still evolving, and we have to adjust to where things are today,” said Wojciechowski. Moving forward, People Can Fly will shift its focus to the development of a single independent game and “redouble” its efforts on work-for-hire projects to stabilize operations.
A Year of Industry Layoffs
This announcement adds to the already staggering toll of layoffs in the gaming industry throughout 2024. Known job losses have reached nearly 15,000, with unconfirmed reports pushing the total to over 16,000. People Can Fly’s decision underscores the challenges faced by many developers in an industry grappling with shifting market demands and economic pressures.
A Compassionate Approach
In his statement, Wojciechowski emphasized the company’s commitment to supporting those affected by the layoffs. “We recognize this is a profoundly challenging time for our team members, as we say goodbye to valued colleagues who have contributed so much,” he said. “Our priority is to approach this moment with compassion and to ensure our team feels supported as we work together to build a stronger future.”
The studio is offering resources and assistance to help those impacted by the layoffs transition to new opportunities. At the same time, efforts are being made to care for remaining team members as they adapt to the changes within the company.
Looking Ahead
Despite the challenges, People Can Fly remains optimistic about its future. “Our dedication to excellence and creativity remains as strong as ever,” Wojciechowski stated. “For everyone who loves what we create — we will not give up on our dreams.”
As the gaming industry continues to evolve, People Can Fly’s restructuring highlights the precarious nature of game development and the difficult decisions studios must make to adapt to an uncertain market. The layoffs serve as a sobering reminder of the human cost behind the games we love.
Key Points
- Layoffs Announced: People Can Fly has confirmed that over 120 employees are being laid off as part of a major restructuring effort.
- Projects Affected: The studio is suspending Project Victoria, downsizing the team working on Project Bifrost, and reorganizing support teams.
- Reason for Changes: CEO Sebastian Wojciechowski cited “external market pressures” as the primary driver behind the decision, which exceeded the studio’s forecasts.
- Shift in Focus: Moving forward, the company will prioritize the development of a single independent game and increase its work-for-hire projects to stabilize finances.
- Industry Impact: The layoffs contribute to nearly 15,000 known job losses in the gaming industry in 2024, with unconfirmed figures pushing the total beyond 16,000.
- Support for Employees: People Can Fly is offering resources to affected employees to help them transition, while also supporting remaining team members as they adapt to the changes.
- CEO’s Statement: Wojciechowski expressed gratitude for the contributions of all employees and reaffirmed the studio’s commitment to creativity and excellence despite the challenges.
- Future Plans: The company aims to adapt to current market conditions while continuing to create games for its audience, emphasizing resilience and determination in the face of adversity.