Torn Banner Studios, the team behind the Chivalry series, has made significant staff cuts following the troubled Early Access launch of No More Room in Hell 2 in October. The layoffs come as the studio battles technical issues, mixed reviews, and the mounting challenges of being a self-funded, independent developer.
The Fallout of Early Access Troubles
CEO Steve Piggott attributed the layoffs to “many challenges” faced by the studio but assured that affected employees would receive severance and support in finding new opportunities. However, the timing of these cuts raises questions about the studio’s ability to recover as it pushes for a full release of No More Room in Hell 2 in 2025.
The co-op zombie shooter launched to tepid reception, with critics and players pointing out numerous technical and performance issues. Torn Banner has since rolled out several hotfixes and updates, but the damage to the game’s reputation appears to have been done.
A Game in Crisis
Despite the setbacks, Piggott insists that No More Room in Hell 2 remains central to Torn Banner’s vision. “We are fully committed to delivering a complete 1.0 launch in 2025 and actively working on everything we’ve outlined in our roadmap,” he said, emphasizing the studio’s dedication to community-driven development.
However, the upheaval at Torn Banner mirrors a troubling trend in the indie game industry. With layoffs becoming increasingly common, the future of the studio and its projects feels uncertain.
Ongoing Support or Temporary Resilience?
In a bid to reassure players, Piggott confirmed that servers for Chivalry 2—the studio’s critically acclaimed medieval multiplayer game—will remain operational. Development on the title wrapped earlier this year, but it’s unclear whether future updates or expansions are feasible in the wake of staff reductions.
“We are saddened to part ways with some of the best of our incredible team,” Piggott wrote, acknowledging the contributions of those laid off. “Torn Banner Studios would not be what it is today without their dedication and passion.”
A Grim Year for Indies
Torn Banner is the latest indie studio to announce layoffs in a challenging year for game developers. In November, studios like Heart Machine (Solar Ash) and Humanoid Origin shuttered or downsized, while Worlds Untold suspended operations due to funding shortfalls.
As the indie gaming landscape grows increasingly volatile, Torn Banner’s struggles highlight the precarious balance between creative ambition and financial sustainability. Can the studio weather the storm and deliver on its promises, or is No More Room in Hell 2 destined to be another cautionary tale in the indie gaming world?
Key Points
- Layoffs Announced:
- Torn Banner Studios has laid off staff following the Early Access launch of No More Room in Hell 2 in October.
- CEO’s Statement:
- CEO Steve Piggott cited the “many challenges” of being an independent, self-funded studio as the cause of the layoffs.
- Affected employees will receive severance and support in finding new jobs.
- Mixed Reception for No More Room in Hell 2:
- The co-op zombie shooter launched to mixed reviews, with players and critics highlighting technical and performance issues.
- Several hotfixes and updates have been released to address these problems.
- Future of the Game:
- Torn Banner remains committed to delivering a full 1.0 launch for No More Room in Hell 2 in 2025.
- The studio emphasized its dedication to working on its roadmap and engaging with the community.
- Impact on Chivalry 2:
- Servers for Chivalry 2 will remain operational, and the game will not be affected by the layoffs.
- Acknowledging the Team:
- Piggott expressed gratitude to the departing staff, calling them “some of the best of our incredible team.”
- Broader Industry Context:
- Torn Banner joins a growing list of indie studios facing financial struggles and staff reductions in 2023.
- Other affected studios include Heart Machine (Solar Ash), Humanoid Origin, and Worlds Untold.
- Uncertainty for Indies:
- The layoffs reflect the challenges of balancing creative ambition and financial sustainability in the volatile indie gaming industry.