Thunderful Games, the developer behind the popular SteamWorld series, has revealed plans to lay off between 80 and 100 employees as part of a significant restructuring effort. The company also announced a shift in focus towards publishing third-party games. In a recent press release, Thunderful confirmed that the layoffs are intended to streamline operations and ensure long-term sustainability.
Alongside the job cuts, several game projects have been officially canceled. Thunderful's CEO, Martin Walfisz, expressed deep regret over the decision, acknowledging that this marks the second round of layoffs within the company this year. Earlier in January, Thunderful had already laid off 20% of its staff in a similar restructuring effort, a move that Walfisz now sees as necessary for the company's survival.
"It is with profound regret that we announce a second restructuring within Thunderful in less than a year. Unfortunately, we see no other viable alternatives to ensure the Group's long-term sustainability and resilience," Walfisz stated. "This strategic shift towards publishing games from external partners aims to reduce fixed costs, enhance flexibility, and better manage our cash flow. While we have many talented and dedicated employees, it is with great sorrow that we must part ways."
According to the press release, the cost-saving measures are projected to yield between 80 and 90 MSEK (approximately $7.3-8.2 million). However, the majority of these savings are not expected to materialize until the first quarter of 2025. The restructuring program is set to commence immediately.
Regarding the refocus on external games, Thunderful hopes this move will help lower fixed costs and improve project success rates while still maintaining some internal development capabilities, including ongoing projects like the SteamWorld series and Lost in Random.
Thunderful's most recent release, SteamWorld Heist 2, launched in August and has garnered positive reviews, including a 9/10 score from GameSpot.
Source link: https://www.gamespot.com
