Surgent Studios, the developer behind Tales of Kenzera: Zau, recently announced that they are laying off just over a dozen employees. The decision comes after the successful release of their first game, which received positive reviews from both critics and players. The studio did not provide a specific reason for the layoffs but mentioned that they are focusing on supporting the affected employees, continuing work on Tales of Kenzera: Zau, and planning for future projects.
Studio head and founder Abubakar Salim, who also voiced the titular character Zau in their first game, expressed his disappointment in having to deliver this news. He praised the team for their hard work and dedication over the past four years, emphasizing the strength they showed during challenging times. Salim’s main focus now is on assisting the affected employees in any way possible and reaching out to potential opportunities for them.
Unfortunately, Surgent Studios is not the only game development studio facing layoffs in 2024. Several other studios, including Paradox Interactive, Dead by Daylight developer Behaviour Interactive, Phoenix Labs, Square Enix, Xbox, and many more, have also been impacted by layoffs and cancellations of projects. The gaming industry is currently experiencing a wave of restructuring and changes, leading to significant job losses across various companies.
As the gaming community continues to evolve and adapt, it is essential to support those affected by these industry-wide challenges. The team at Surgent Studios and other impacted studios are talented individuals who have contributed to creating memorable gaming experiences. By acknowledging their hard work and dedication, we can help them navigate through this difficult period and potentially find new opportunities in the industry.
Our thoughts are with all those who have been affected by recent layoffs and closures in the gaming industry. It is crucial to recognize the resilience and creativity of game developers and employees who continue to push boundaries and create innovative entertainment experiences. By coming together as a community, we can provide support and encouragement to those facing uncertainties in their careers.
