Deck Nine, the studio responsible for the popular Life is Strange games, has announced a 20% staff reduction due to difficult market conditions. This move comes as many other game development studios are also making significant workforce cuts.
The release of Life is Strange: True Colors in 2021 was seen as a successful return to form for the franchise, following a less well-received second installment. Deck Nine, previously involved in creating the prequel Life is Strange: Before the Storm, took over the series after the original developers moved on. While the latest game was praised for its compelling storytelling and new gameplay elements, the industry has evolved significantly since its launch.
Deck Nine Games confirmed the layoffs on social media, attributing the decision to the challenging market conditions. The studio encouraged other companies to consider hiring the affected developers who were described as talented and valuable. The recent layoffs mark the second instance of such cuts within a year, with a previous round occurring before the release of The Expanse: The Telltale Series, a collaboration with Telltale Games. Despite the success of Life is Strange: True Colors, Deck Nine has not been immune to the industry-wide trend of downsizing.
Deck Nine Faces Second Round of Layoffs
This recent layoff is part of a broader trend in the gaming industry. Earlier reports revealed significant job cuts at PlayStation, including the closure of its London studio and the cancellation of an unannounced Twisted Metal project. The industry as a whole is experiencing a turbulent period, with layoffs becoming a regular occurrence. The news from Deck Nine adds to the somber developments within the sector, raising concerns about the future of the beloved Life is Strange series with a reduced workforce.
The ongoing challenges in the gaming industry paint a bleak picture for developers. As studios grapple with economic pressures and market uncertainties, the hope remains that affected staff members will find new opportunities swiftly amidst the tumultuous landscape.