Evening Star, the developer behind the 3D platformer Penny’s Big Breakaway, has recently announced layoffs due to industry turbulence. This unfortunate decision comes as a result of the ongoing instability and chaos within the video game industry. The CEO and executive producer of Evening Star, Dave Padilla, took to LinkedIn to share the news, expressing his disappointment in having to let go of six employees. Despite their efforts to secure another project to keep the team together, the studio was left with no choice but to make these difficult cuts.
According to Padilla, the turbulence that has affected many in the games industry over the past year and a half has now reached Evening Star. The layoffs were a necessary step to navigate the volatile market conditions and operational realities of their business. Chief technology officer and game director Hunter Bridges also expressed his regret over the layoffs, acknowledging the talent and value of the individuals affected. However, the studio is committed to helping them land on their feet during this challenging time.
Evening Star, founded in 2018 by veterans of the Sonic Mania development team, made a splash with Penny’s Big Breakaway. The game, which drew inspiration from modern Sonic, 3D Mario, and Tony Hawk’s Pro Skater, showcased the studio’s creativity and potential. Despite positive reviews, Penny’s Big Breakaway did not achieve the level of success expected on platforms like Steam. With a peak concurrent player count of just 563, the game struggled to gain traction, even with releases on Xbox Series X/S, PlayStation 5, and Nintendo Switch.
The layoffs at Evening Star, while impacting a small number of employees, represent a significant portion of the studio’s team. With an estimated 11-50 employees, the loss of six staff members has undoubtedly affected the studio’s operations. The decision reflects the harsh reality facing many game development studios as they navigate an increasingly challenging market landscape. The layoffs at Evening Star are just one example of the widespread cuts that have plagued the industry in recent years.
The Ongoing Turbulence in the Video Game Industry
The layoffs at Evening Star are part of a broader trend of instability within the video game industry. Over the past two years, more than 16,000 developers have lost their jobs, highlighting the challenges facing game development studios. The situation has only worsened in recent months, with major companies like Microsoft, Midnight Society, and Lost Boys Interactive also announcing layoffs. The industry’s struggles have been exacerbated by market uncertainties and shifting consumer preferences, making it increasingly difficult for studios to thrive.
The impact of industry turbulence extends beyond individual studios, affecting the entire ecosystem of game development. The closure of studios and the loss of talented developers have far-reaching consequences, leading to a contraction in creativity and innovation within the industry. As studios grapple with financial pressures and market challenges, they are forced to make tough decisions that can have lasting effects on their employees and the games they create.
The Future of Evening Star and Penny’s Big Breakaway
Despite the challenges they face, Evening Star remains committed to the future of Penny’s Big Breakaway and the studio as a whole. The game, hailed for its unique blend of gameplay elements and design, has garnered a loyal following among players. While it may not have achieved mainstream success, Penny’s Big Breakaway has solidified Evening Star’s reputation as a studio capable of delivering engaging and innovative experiences.
As Evening Star navigates the aftermath of the layoffs, the studio is focused on supporting its remaining team members and ensuring the continued success of Penny’s Big Breakaway. With a dedicated fan base and a strong foundation in place, the studio is optimistic about its ability to weather the challenges of the industry and emerge stronger on the other side. By leveraging their creativity and passion for game development, Evening Star aims to overcome the obstacles that lie ahead and continue delivering memorable gaming experiences.
In conclusion, the layoffs at Evening Star serve as a sobering reminder of the challenges facing the video game industry. As studios grapple with market turbulence and operational uncertainties, they are forced to make difficult decisions that can have a profound impact on their employees and their games. Despite the setbacks, Evening Star remains committed to its vision and its team, striving to navigate the industry’s challenges and emerge stronger than ever. As the industry continues to evolve, studios like Evening Star will play a crucial role in shaping the future of gaming and delivering innovative experiences to players around the world.