Sony is implementing job cuts at Bend Studio, the company responsible for developing Days Gone.
Updated News: Bend Studio, the brilliant minds behind the critically acclaimed Days Gone, has farewelled a significant chunk of its team. Around 30% of employees, roughly 40 inspiring individuals, have been let go as the studio prepares for their future endeavors. This shift comes amidst a strategic transition to a new project.
In a heartfelt statement, Bend Studio expressed their gratitude towards the departing team members, acknowledging their invaluable contributions that have shaped the studio's identity. The statement, shared on various social media platforms, emphasized the studio's undying commitment to foster creativity, passion, and innovation in their upcoming projects.
While exact figures haven't been disclosed, renowned journalist Jason Schreier hinted at the scales of the redundancies. The gaming industry veteran stated that these layoffs might not be an isolated case, with similar workforce adjustments possibly being implemented in other PlayStation-owned studios.
This news follows the cancellation of two live service projects by Sony, including one that was under development at Bend Studio, back in November 2023. In response, Sony pledged to collaborate closely with each studio affected by the cancellations to determine their next steps.
The gaming landscape is dynamic, and it's not uncommon for companies to adjust according to project demands and strategic decisions. Earlier this year, reports surfaced about another PlayStation studio, Bluepoint Games, experiencing a project cancellation. However, details regarding potential layoffs at this studio aren't as widely documented compared to Bend Studio.
In the grand scheme of things, the layoffs at Bend Studio mirror broader trends in the gaming industry, where studios often need to adapt their workforces to accommodate project advancements and strategic choices. As the industry evolves, it's essential to recognize the tremendous talent and dedication that each team member brings to the table, and the indelible impact they leave on the gaming world.
Technology, with its ever-evolving nature, plays a crucial role in the gaming industry as well. In the aftermath of the significant layoffs at Bend Studio, it's not impossible to envision the impact of advanced tech solutions on the remaining team members as they embark on new projects. For instance, the use of motion capture technology could aid in the creation of lifelike characters, or AI could streamline development processes, thereby enhancing the quality of sports games that Bend Studio might choose to create in the future.
