Actor's Critique of Video Game Industry Challenges

Elias Toufexis, a veteran voice actor known for his work in Starfield and Deus Ex, shares his concerns about the current state of the video game industry.
Actor's Critique of Video Game Industry Challenges

Highlights

  • Elias Toufexis labeled the current state of the video game industry as a 'disaster zone' amidst mass layoffs at Eidos Montreal.
  • The actor expressed frustration over the cancelation of the next Deus Ex game and the impact on his colleagues at Eidos.
  • Toufexis highlighted the uncertainty surrounding his future projects, acknowledging the industry's unpredictable nature.

Starfield and Deus Ex voice actor Elias Toufexis has expressed deep concerns about the current state of the video game industry, describing it as a 'disaster zone.' This critique comes in the wake of mass layoffs at Eidos Montreal, where 97 employees, over 20% of the workforce, were let go.

The video game industry has experienced both benefits and challenges due to the 2020 global pandemic. While lockdowns led to record profits, the subsequent economic instability prompted many publishers to cancel projects, including the new Deus Ex game, as loans became costlier and growth slowed down. Embracer Group's cost-cutting measures following a failed $2 billion investment have resulted in the closure of studios and game cancellations.

Elias Toufexis voiced his dismay about the industry's current state, particularly in light of the layoffs at Eidos Montreal. He took to Twitter to convey his frustration, confirming the cancelation of the next Deus Ex game and revealing the cancelation and reboot of other projects he was involved in.

Uncertainty Surrounding Future Projects

Toufexis expressed uncertainty about his ongoing projects, expressing cynicism about their fate. While not guaranteed to reprise his role as Adam Jensen in the canceled Deus Ex game, he emphasized his concern for his colleagues who lost their jobs at Eidos. Despite his critique, Toufexis acknowledged that he remains fortunate to have ongoing opportunities in the industry.

Toufexis clarified that his comments were a form of venting, recognizing the industry's current challenges. As the industry grapples with ongoing uncertainties, Toufexis's future projects remain undisclosed as of February 2024. His recent credits include Starfield and Star Trek: Resurgence in 2023.