Joystiq http://www.joystiq.com Joystiq http://www.blogsmithmedia.com/http://www.joystiq.com/media/feedlogo.gif Joystiq http://www.joystiq.com en-us Copyright 2012 Weblogs, Inc. The contents of this feed are available for non-commercial use only. Blogsmith http://www.blogsmith.com/<![CDATA[Schilling says he could lose $50 million of his own money in 38 Studios implosion [update: Chafee responds]]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/29/schilling-says-he-could-lose-50-million-of-his-own-money-in-38/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/29/schilling-says-he-could-lose-50-million-of-his-own-money-in-38/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/29/schilling-says-he-could-lose-50-million-of-his-own-money-in-38/#comments Embattled 38 Studios co-founder and head Curt Schilling finally broke his weeks of silence on the Rhode Island studio's recent implosion in an interview with The Providence Journal. "Frustration" seems not strong enough a word to describe his feelings toward Rhode Island Governor Lincoln Chafee - Schilling called Chafee's commentary surrounding 38 Studios "devastating," and claimed it "scared off private investors."

Schilling also said that he could lose $50 million due to the studio's failure - money which he earned as a professional baseball player, and which he later invested into 38 Studios. That money, as well as approximately $50 million of a planned $75 million loan co-signed by the state of Rhode Island, was eaten by 38's long-in-development MMO, "Project Copernicus."

38 Studios' Baltimore-based subsidiary, Big Huge Games, was working on a sequel to this year's Kingdoms of Amalur: Reckoning. The project was depending on private investment to go into production - to the tune of $35 million from an unnamed publisher - which Schilling said was pushed away by Chafee's statements.

"Curt was committed to us as a community and as people, he wanted the best possible work environment for the team he cared so much for, and as a result none of us wanted to let him down," one former 38 Studios employee, speaking under condition of anonymity, told us. "He had invested so much into us financially and personally, we were not about to betray that trust. We were not going to take the chance of speaking to the press and accidentally ruining any chances with outside investors. Unfortunately, it didn't matter if the employees spoke and ruined things with the investors as the Governor beat us to it."

Last week, 38 Studios laid off its near-300 person staff in Rhode Island, as well as its approximately 100-person studio in Baltimore, Big Huge Games.

Update: Governor Lincoln Chafee responded this morning to Schilling's comments in a short Q&A session with Rhode Island reporters. "As a business person, he was new at it, and so I always had some reservations," Chafee said. "I have to verify everything, I can't just take it as a leap of faith," he told one reporter asking about the alleged $35 million that 38 Studios was on the brink of acquiring to create a sequel to this year's Kingdoms of Amalur: Reckoning. "Hope springs eternal, but I won't misrepresent to the Rhode Islanders how dire the situation is," Chafee added. "I understand that being involved in this very risky industry that, when things aren't going well, there's gonna be blame. But this isn't accurate to be blaming the state in this case."

JoystiqSchilling says he could lose $50 million of his own money in 38 Studios implosion [update: Chafee responds] originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 29 May 2012 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>38-studiosbig-huge-gamescurt-schillingkingdoms-of-amalur-reckoninglayoffslincoln-chafeeproject-copernicusrhode-islandrhode-island-economic-development-corporationTue, 29 May 2012 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Trip Hawkins steps down as Digital Chocolate CEO, layoffs reported]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/28/trip-hawkins-steps-down-as-digital-chocolate-ceo-layoffs-report/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/28/trip-hawkins-steps-down-as-digital-chocolate-ceo-layoffs-report/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/28/trip-hawkins-steps-down-as-digital-chocolate-ceo-layoffs-report/#comments ImageMobile and social games publisher Digital Chocolate may be in danger of melting. Noted industry veteran Trip Hawkins has stepped down as CEO, noting on the Digital Chocolate blog that he is "transitioning now into a consulting and advisory relationship" with the company. He added that Digital Chocolate is "narrowing its focus and it made sense to get more streamlined."

Meanwhile, Digital Chocolate president Marc Metis will step in as interim CEO while the company will also lay off up to 180 across the company's offices in Russia, San Mateo and India, according to a TechCrunch report. The site reports that the San Mateo and Bangalore have had their staffs reduced by half, while offices in Mexico, Armenia, Washington and Russia have been closed entirely.

While Digital Chocolate has yet to confirm the news, Francisco Casanova, general manager of Digital Chocolate Mexico, has tweeted that his branch has closed its doors.

JoystiqTrip Hawkins steps down as Digital Chocolate CEO, layoffs reported originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 28 May 2012 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>androidiosipadiphonelayoffsmobilepcreportMon, 28 May 2012 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Industry rallies to get former 38 Studios, Big Huge Games staff new work]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/24/industry-rallies-to-get-former-38-studios-big-huge-games-staff/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/24/industry-rallies-to-get-former-38-studios-big-huge-games-staff/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/24/industry-rallies-to-get-former-38-studios-big-huge-games-staff/#comments ImageThe sudden firing of all 379 employees at 38 Studios and Big Huge Games today was a blow to the industry, even for those of us who expected it. Soon after news broke, many developers, artists, designers, PR people, journalists and fans took to the Internet to express frustration and anger -- and to help.

On Twitter, the hashtag "#38jobs" rose to trending in the US, with people shouting out which studios were hiring and generally sending support to those let go today. A Facebook group titled "38Jobs" popped up around the same time. Freelance games journo Alex Rubens gathered all of these jobs tips into a Google Doc that currently sports 84 studios with openings, including Irrational Games, Bungie, Activision, Klei Entertainment, Rockstar and other major and indie companies.

Access the full list here; it is still in the process of being updated and refined, courtesy of Rubens and The Side Of The Gaming Industry That Proves We're Not All Trolling Douchebags.

JoystiqIndustry rallies to get former 38 Studios, Big Huge Games staff new work originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 24 May 2012 21:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>38-studiosBig-Huge-Gamesjobskingdoms-of-amalur-reckoninglayoffsmicrosoftmobilenintendopcplaystationproject-copernicusps3wiixboxThu, 24 May 2012 21:45:00 EST<![CDATA[38 Studios and Big Huge Games lay off entire staffs [update]]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/24/38-studios-and-big-huge-games-lay-off-entire-staffs/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/24/38-studios-and-big-huge-games-lay-off-entire-staffs/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/24/38-studios-and-big-huge-games-lay-off-entire-staffs/#comments 38 Studios and Big Huge Games have both let go of their entire staffs, a source with knowledge of the situation tells Joystiq. Following reports that 38 Studios stopped paying staff on May 1, and just an hour before a scheduled press conference in Rhode Island addressing the recent 38 Studios financial debacle, both the Providence, RI-based 38 Studios and the Baltimore, MD-based Big Huge Games are no more.

"Big Huge Games was home for my wife and me for our adult lives so far. I'll miss it terribly, but so proud. Good night and good luck," former Big Huge Games lead world designer Colin Campbell said on his Twitter account. Big Huge's latest release was the moderately successful Kingdoms of Amalur: Reckoning. The studio was picked up by 38 Studios back in 2009, and it crafted the first entry in 38's ambitious new universe: Amalur.

The recent financial tumult arose following a defaulted payment from 38 Studios to the Rhode Island state government on May 1, indicating much larger financial issues that could ultimately lead to Rhode Island taxpayers owing up to $112.6 million between 2013 and 2020. It's unclear whether today's layoffs mean 38 Studios is unable to pay back the approximately $50 million its owes Rhode Island of a planed $75 million loan. If that's the case, Rhode Island will take over ownership of the Amalur IP, valued at around $20 million.

We expect to hear more at a scheduled press conference this evening held by Rhode Island Governor Lincoln Chafee.

Update: WPRI got ahold of the internal memo to employees at 38 Studios, which reads: "The Company is experiencing an economic downturn. To avoid further losses and possibility of retrenchment, the Company has decided that a companywide lay off is absolutely necessary. These layoffs are non-voluntary and non-disciplinary. This is your official notice of lay off, effective today, Thursday, May 24th, 2012." Big Huge Games and 38 Studios collectively employed 379 full-timers as of March 15, according to the report.

Joystiq38 Studios and Big Huge Games lay off entire staffs [update] originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 24 May 2012 16:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>38-studiosbig-huge-gamesclosurelayoffslincoln-chafeerhode-islandThu, 24 May 2012 16:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Atari says Eden Games isn't closed, plans to continue supporting the studio]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/11/atari-shuts-down-test-drive-series-developer-eden-games/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/11/atari-shuts-down-test-drive-series-developer-eden-games/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/11/atari-shuts-down-test-drive-series-developer-eden-games/#comments [Update] A few hours ago, we reported that Eden Games had been shuttered - you can read our original report below. An Atari representative has told Joystiq that despite the "divestiture process" wording in the financial statement sourced below suggesting closure of the studio, Eden Games has not been fully liquidated. Eden Games still exists, and Atari plans to support the studio moving forward.

"Our earnings statement contained a report about the divestment of Eden Games. We want to make it clear that the studio has not closed and that we will continue to support the console and PC games of Eden Games, notably Test Drive Unlimited 2, while this process is underway. The divestment is in line with our previously stated strategy of exploiting our popular intellectual property library on mobile devices, where he have seen strong initial success, and via online games and licensing."

[Original story] Eden Games is no more. Last year Eden Games engaged in a "symbolic" one-day strike in response to a first wave of layoffs, and today Atari has shut down what was left of the French studio responsible for the Test Drive series of racing sims.

"Eden Games has been accounted for as 'Discontinued Operations' under IFRS 5, as the Company has started a divestiture process of the studio," Atari's earnings report reads. (That's business speak explaining Eden Games has been dissolved.) Earnings for the fiscal year ending March 31, 2012 show Atari made $51.3 million - a 44% decline compared to last year's $77.8 million in revenue.

Last year, when the first round of Eden Games employees were dismissed, some went on to found Blossom Minds.

JoystiqAtari says Eden Games isn't closed, plans to continue supporting the studio originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 11 May 2012 18:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>atarieden-gameslayoffsmicrosoftpcplaystationps3Test-Drive-Unlimited-2xboxFri, 11 May 2012 18:30:00 EST<![CDATA[EA planning upcoming layoffs, 'completed by September 30, 2012']]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/07/ea-planning-upcoming-layoffs-completed-by-september-30-2012/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/07/ea-planning-upcoming-layoffs-completed-by-september-30-2012/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/07/ea-planning-upcoming-layoffs-completed-by-september-30-2012/#comments EA today confirmed plans to enact a "restructuring" among its employees, resulting in an unnamed number of layoffs companywide. The restructuring is part of EA CEO John Riccitiello's move toward digital - an initiative that aims to alter the composition of EA's staff from one in eight engineers to one in two.

The California-based publisher will incur a variety of expenses related to its upcoming plans, to the tune of "approximately $40 million in total costs." Ouch! Making things more painful is the fact that $23 million of that total is planned for "severance and other employee-related costs" - a number that'll be (conveniently) reflected in next year's financials.

As recently as a few weeks ago, EA outright denied reports of upcoming layoffs. Those reports put the number at 5 to 10 percent of EA's workforce, or approximately 500 to 1,000 employees. EA corporate rep Jeff Brown told Joystiq that the restructuring "impacts a relatively small number of EA's 9,000 employees." He added, "Most importantly, EA is hiring and we expect to finish the year with more employees, not fewer."

Update: During EA's financial call this afternoon, the company got more specific on restructuring numbers. Regardless of layoffs, EA expects to grow its current headcount of approximately 9,200 employees to 9,700 by the end of fiscal 2013 (ending March 31, 2013).

JoystiqEA planning upcoming layoffs, 'completed by September 30, 2012' originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 07 May 2012 16:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>eaelectronic-artsjeff-brownlayoffssecsecurities-and-exchange-commissionMon, 07 May 2012 16:45:00 EST<![CDATA[EA Montreal 'reorganizing some teams,' letting a 'small number' go]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/04/26/ea-montreal-reorganizing-some-teams-letting-a-small-number/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/04/26/ea-montreal-reorganizing-some-teams-letting-a-small-number/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/04/26/ea-montreal-reorganizing-some-teams-letting-a-small-number/#comments EA Montreal is restructuring its workforce. Some individuals are being moved to digital projects, including mobile and social games, while others will be dismissed.

"These are routine changes which address the cyclical nature of the game industry," an EA spokesperson told GI.biz. "A very small number of employees will be impacted - many will be assigned to new projects at EA, others will leave the company."

Just last week, EA told Joystiq that it's growing and plans to hire hundreds this year. EA expects headcount to be up by the end of 2012.

JoystiqEA Montreal 'reorganizing some teams,' letting a 'small number' go originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 26 Apr 2012 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3dsandroiddsiosipadiphonelayoffsmacmicrosoftmobilenintendopcplaystationplaystation-vitaps3pspsonyvitawiiwii-uxboxThu, 26 Apr 2012 19:00:00 EST<![CDATA[EA denies report of incoming mass layoffs]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/04/16/ea-denies-report-of-incoming-mass-layoffs/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/04/16/ea-denies-report-of-incoming-mass-layoffs/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/04/16/ea-denies-report-of-incoming-mass-layoffs/#comments ImageEA has denied a report that 500-1,000 layoffs, representing 5-10 percent of the workforce, are about to hit the company.

The publisher told MCV there are no layoffs "as such." The company rep said, "At any given time there are new people coming in and others leaving. EA is growing and hiring and building teams to support the growing demand for digital games and services."

The layoff rumor comes from StartupGrind, which claims that the ax was originally expected to drop last Monday. The site says it has "confirmed they're coming very soon."

Although "seasonal roll-offs" are nothing new for the publisher, it's been a while since mass layoffs hit the company.

Update: EA corporate communications sent the following statement to Joystiq: "EA is growing and looking to hire hundreds of people for our digital, console, mobile and social games. Like all game companies, we make occasional adjustments to resize teams as projects are completed and new priorities are established. Overall, we expect that headcount will be up at the end of this year."

JoystiqEA denies report of incoming mass layoffs originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 16 Apr 2012 10:35:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>eaelectronic-artslayoffsMon, 16 Apr 2012 10:35:00 EST<![CDATA[Sony expects biggest loss ever, 10K laid off; games a pillar for future]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/04/12/sony-expects-biggest-loss-ever-10k-laid-off-games-a-pillar-for/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/04/12/sony-expects-biggest-loss-ever-10k-laid-off-games-a-pillar-for/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/04/12/sony-expects-biggest-loss-ever-10k-laid-off-games-a-pillar-for/#comments ImageSony announced today it would cut 10,000 jobs, approximately 6 percent of its global workforce, as it projects a loss of $6.4 billion for the fiscal year that ended in March. It will be the fourth straight year of losses for the company, which really needs to turn around its money pit TV business over the next two years.

"Sony will change. I've fully dedicated myself to changing Sony," said new CEO and President Kazuo Hirai to press today, as reported by USA Today.

Part of Hirai's turnaround efforts will be a fiscal pilates regimen, focused on strengthening the core businesses of mobile, digital imaging and gaming. The plan is for these groups to generate 70 percent of total sales for the company and 85 percent of income for the entire electronics business.

On the games front, the company plans to increase sales through PSN subscriptions and downloadable content, along with expanding the PlayStation Suite lineup and its compatible devices. For all of Sony's problems, the games division seems to be the least of its worries.

JoystiqSony expects biggest loss ever, 10K laid off; games a pillar for future originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 12 Apr 2012 11:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>kaz-hiraikazuo-hirailayoffsplaystationplaystation-vitaps3pspSonyvitaThu, 12 Apr 2012 11:30:00 EST<![CDATA[PS3/Vita title Warrior's Lair not canceled, says Sony]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/04/02/ps3-vita-title-warriors-lair-not-canceled-says-sony/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/04/02/ps3-vita-title-warriors-lair-not-canceled-says-sony/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/04/02/ps3-vita-title-warriors-lair-not-canceled-says-sony/#comments Sony acknowledged in a matter-of-fact response the cross-platform PS3/Vita title Warrior's Lair -- previously known as Ruin -- has not been canceled. We followed up with the publisher last week after forum murmurings (some since deleted) claimed the game had been canned and over half the staff at developer Idol Minds were let go.

To the first point, a Sony representative plainly stated, "Warrior's Lair is still in development; it isn't cancelled."

As to whether the game is still in development at Idol Minds and if there were any layoffs? Idol Minds has not responded to our request for comment.

Warrior's Lair was revealed at last year's E3 as a Diablo-style RPG with interesting social features.

Update: Idol Minds is no longer on the project. Still no word from the company about layoffs.

JoystiqPS3/Vita title Warrior's Lair not canceled, says Sony originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 02 Apr 2012 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>idol-mindslayoffsplaystationplaystation-vitaps3ruinvitawarriors-lairMon, 02 Apr 2012 09:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Sony confirms Zipper Interactive closure]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/03/30/sony-confirms-zipper-interactive-closure/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/03/30/sony-confirms-zipper-interactive-closure/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/03/30/sony-confirms-zipper-interactive-closure/#comments Today has been a rough one for the games industry. Following massive layoffs at Sega today, Sony has confirmed Zipper Interactive's closure after it was rumored last week.

In a statement given to Game Informer, a Sony representative stated the move was the "result of a normal cycle of resource re-alignment within SCE WWS." Though the studio has been shuttered, "Zipper titles MAG, SOCOM 4 and Unit 13 will continue to be supported, including the new Daily Challenges in Unit 13."

JoystiqSony confirms Zipper Interactive closure originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 30 Mar 2012 18:36:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>layoffsplaystationplaystation-vitaps3scesony-computer-entertainmentsony-worldwide-studiossony-worldwide-studios-europeunit-13vitazipper-interactiveFri, 30 Mar 2012 18:36:00 EST<![CDATA[Sega canceling games, cutting jobs in US and Europe to restructure [update: SOA statement]]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/03/30/sega-canceling-games-cutting-jobs-in-us-and-europe-to-restructu/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/03/30/sega-canceling-games-cutting-jobs-in-us-and-europe-to-restructu/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/03/30/sega-canceling-games-cutting-jobs-in-us-and-europe-to-restructu/#comments Sega's forecasts for the fiscal year ending March 31 have been adjusted down -- expected net income is down 47.4% -- and Sega Sammy's board of directors have enacted a drastic plan to reduce operating costs in the future.

Sadly, this plan involves the "streamlining" of Sega's operations in the US and Europe, to "create a smaller company positioned for sustained profitability." There is currently no word on how many jobs are being cut, or where, to create this smaller company.

The plan also includes a narrowing of Sega's lineup, to focus on franchises that the company expects to sell in the US and Europe, including Sonic, Football Manager, Total War, and Aliens. That refocusing means some games have been canceled, though specific titles were not announced.

Sega's "extraordinary loss" (caused in part by costs from this restructuring) will see the company's expected profits drop from 38 billion yen ($462 million) to 20 billion yen ($243 million,) with sales revenue dipping about a half-billion dollars. The cancellation of these projects and this reform is estimated to have a 7.1 billion yen ($86.5 million) price tag.

Update: After the break, find Sega of America's full statement.

Continue reading Sega canceling games, cutting jobs in US and Europe to restructure [update: SOA statement]

JoystiqSega canceling games, cutting jobs in US and Europe to restructure [update: SOA statement] originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 30 Mar 2012 09:35:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3dsdsfinanciallayoffsmicrosoftnintendopcplaystationps3restructuringsegasega-sammy-holdingswiixboxFri, 30 Mar 2012 09:35:00 EST<![CDATA[Warhammer 40,000: Dark Millennium MMO now single-player game, 118 laid off]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/03/29/warhammer-40-000-dark-millennium-mmo-now-single-player-game-10/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/03/29/warhammer-40-000-dark-millennium-mmo-now-single-player-game-10/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/03/29/warhammer-40-000-dark-millennium-mmo-now-single-player-game-10/#comments Troubled publisher THQ announced today that Warhammer 40K: Dark Millennium Online will drop the "online" portion of its name and become a solo experience -- with multiplayer aspects. Actual product details will be made later.

"As previously announced, we have been actively looking for a business partner for the game as an MMO. However, based on changing market dynamics and the additional investment required to complete the game as an MMO, we believe the right direction for us is to shift the title from an MMO to a premium experience with single and multiplayer gameplay, robust digital content and community features," THQ CEO Brian Farrell wrote in a statement.

As a result of this change, THQ raises the body count of its collapse, with 79 full-time employees let go at Vigil Games in Austin and another 39 employees at Relic Entertainment.

JoystiqWarhammer 40,000: Dark Millennium MMO now single-player game, 118 laid off originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 29 Mar 2012 14:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>layoffspcRelicRelic-Entertainmentthqvigil-gameswarhammer-40000-dark-millennium-onlineThu, 29 Mar 2012 14:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Rumor: Sony shutting down SOCOM dev Zipper Interactive]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/03/23/rumor-sony-shutting-down-socom-creators-zipper-interactive/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/03/23/rumor-sony-shutting-down-socom-creators-zipper-interactive/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/03/23/rumor-sony-shutting-down-socom-creators-zipper-interactive/#comments Sony may be on the verge of closing down its shooter studio, Zipper Interactive. According to Kotaku sources, there's been "chatter for several days" about an impending closure and the possible cancellation of a current project. Sony has not commented on the situation.

Those with short memories may recall Zipper Interactive for it PS Vita shooter, Unit 13. But the company's roots go much deeper -- Zipper Interactive was founded in 1995 and spent the remainder of the '90s making Windows games. In 2002, Zipper created a little PS2 game for Sony called SOCOM: US Navy Seals and, after spending the next few years pumping out sequels, it was acquired by the publisher in 2006. The developer completed work on the large-scale multiplayer shooter, MAG, in 2010.

JoystiqRumor: Sony shutting down SOCOM dev Zipper Interactive originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 23 Mar 2012 21:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>layoffsmoveplaystationplaystation-vitaps3pspsceasonyunit-13vitazipper-interactiveFri, 23 Mar 2012 21:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Hydrophobia studio shut down]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/03/19/hydrophobia-studio-shut-down/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/03/19/hydrophobia-studio-shut-down/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/03/19/hydrophobia-studio-shut-down/#comments Hydrophobia developer Dark Energy Digital has been shut down, administrators confirmed to GamesIndustry.biz.

The site reports that the company's assets have been combined into a "pre-packed" deal with the recently created Dark Energy Publishing, a new company founded in January by Dark Energy Digital owners Pete and Deborah Jones, along with technical director Gary Leach. GI.biz also notes the new outfit may "take control of physical assets and IP at a bargain price."

Hydrophobia struggled to find a large audience, despite significant attempts to fix the game after it launched. We've contacted Dark Energy Digital's administration team for comment.

JoystiqHydrophobia studio shut down originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 19 Mar 2012 18:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dark-energy-digitalHydrophobialayoffsmicrosoftpcplaystationps3xboxMon, 19 Mar 2012 18:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Report: Obsidian hit with layoffs; South Park team affected, future next-gen title canceled]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/03/14/report-obsidian-hit-with-layoffs-south-park-team-affected-fut/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/03/14/report-obsidian-hit-with-layoffs-south-park-team-affected-fut/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/03/14/report-obsidian-hit-with-layoffs-south-park-team-affected-fut/#comments
Obsidian Entertainment reportedly experienced a round of layoffs this week, with the extent of the damage not entirely clear. The company's forums lay out an idea of the body count, with messages on Twitter filling in more details.

"Another project canceled, this time for a future next-gen project and the layoffs impacted that team, plus the existing South Park team," a tipster wrote Joystiq. "Approximately 20-30 people from all disciplines, including one person who started yesterday, as well as one who started last week."

It was around this time last year that Obsidian also let staff go. We've contacted the company for an official statement.

Update: "We are always happy to talk about our announced projects, gaming and the industry as a whole. However, it is our policy to not comment on stories regarding our staff," Obsidian CEO Feargus Urquhart informed us this afternoon.

JoystiqReport: Obsidian hit with layoffs; South Park team affected, future next-gen title canceled originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 14 Mar 2012 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>layoffsobsidianObsidian-Entertainmentsouth-park-the-gameWed, 14 Mar 2012 11:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Blizzard cuts 600 employees, most not in game development]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/02/29/blizzard-cuts-600-employees-most-not-in-game-development/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/02/29/blizzard-cuts-600-employees-most-not-in-game-development/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/02/29/blizzard-cuts-600-employees-most-not-in-game-development/#comments Blizzard has laid off 600 employees, 90 percent of whom are not involved in game development, a statement from Activision Blizzard reads. The cuts do not impact the World of Warcraft development team, the publisher was quick to assure, and its development and publishing schedules will not be affected.

"As Blizzard and the industry have evolved we've also had to make some difficult decisions in order to address the changing needs of our company," Mike Morhaime, CEO of Blizzard Entertainment, said. "Knowing that, it still does not make letting go of some of our team members any easier."

In the same statement, Blizzard announced that it is "recruiting and looking to hire qualified developers for a number of open positions."

JoystiqBlizzard cuts 600 employees, most not in game development originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 29 Feb 2012 12:52:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ActivisionActivision-BlizzardBlizzarddiablo-3firedlayoffsMike-Morhaimepcstarcraft-2World-of-WarcraftWoWWed, 29 Feb 2012 12:52:00 EST<![CDATA[Report: Hydrophobia studio facing closure]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/02/28/report-hydrophobia-studio-facing-closure/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/02/28/report-hydrophobia-studio-facing-closure/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/02/28/report-hydrophobia-studio-facing-closure/#comments Hydrophobia developer Dark Energy Digital is allegedly preparing to shut down. GamesIndustry.biz reports layoffs have begun, with affected employees concerned about outstanding pay from the company, which is said to be deep in debt.

Hydrophobia struggled to find an audience after diving into the digital distribution pool with less-than-adequate form, despite attempts by the developer to right the ship soon after launch. We've contacted Dark Energy Digital for comment.

JoystiqReport: Hydrophobia studio facing closure originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 28 Feb 2012 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dark-energy-digitalHydrophobialayoffsmicrosoftpcplaystationps3xboxTue, 28 Feb 2012 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Starbreeze lets 25 go after finishing Syndicate]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/02/17/starbreeze-lets-25-go-after-finishing-syndicate/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/02/17/starbreeze-lets-25-go-after-finishing-syndicate/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/02/17/starbreeze-lets-25-go-after-finishing-syndicate/#comments Having completed Syndicate before EA ships it next week, Swedish developer Starbreeze has let several employees go. The company employed 93 individuals while working on the FPS reboot, 25 of which have been dismissed, according to GamesIndustry.biz (registration required). Starbreeze chairman Peter Tornquist has also reportedly resigned.

"It is sad that we are forced to make staff cutbacks affecting employees. But we have to reduce staff after the final delivery of the Syndicate," CEO Mikael Nermark told GI.biz. Layoffs at development studios on the cusp of shipping a title has quickly become the norm for the industry. We don't like to see anyone lose their job and hope the individuals in Sweden affected by our least favorite tag find new work as soon as possible.

JoystiqStarbreeze lets 25 go after finishing Syndicate originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 17 Feb 2012 22:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>layoffsmicrosoftpcplaystationproject-redlimeps3syndicatexboxFri, 17 Feb 2012 22:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Report: THQ shutting down Japanese office]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/02/15/report-thq-shutting-down-japanese-office/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/02/15/report-thq-shutting-down-japanese-office/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/02/15/report-thq-shutting-down-japanese-office/#comments GAME Watch is reporting that THQ will shut down its Japanese publishing operation on February 29. The article notes that it is as yet undetermined who will provide ongoing support for existing THQ titles, and whether the company has found a new publishing partner for the region. This puts the status of upcoming games including Darksiders 2 into question.

This is in line with a rumor that popped up in late January -- one to which THQ responded by saying "'closing' is not accurate."

JoystiqReport: THQ shutting down Japanese office originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 15 Feb 2012 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>japanlayoffsthqthq-japanWed, 15 Feb 2012 19:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Gazillion shutting down Fortune Online, focusing on Marvel properties]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/02/14/gazillion-shutting-down-fortune-online-focusing-on-marvel-prope/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/02/14/gazillion-shutting-down-fortune-online-focusing-on-marvel-prope/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/02/14/gazillion-shutting-down-fortune-online-focusing-on-marvel-prope/#comments
Gazillion confirmed to Joystiq this afternoon that the MMO publisher will shut down its Diablo-esque Fortune Online. There's no announced timetable on when the company will shut down the project, nor how many employees will be laid off from the studio in San Mateo, California. Gazillion will try to shift the team to its two Marvel projects.

The publisher will continue focusing on its two Marvel-based MMOs, Marvel Super Hero Squad Online and Marvel Heroes (formerly known as Marvel Universe). A company spokesperson told Joystiq, "We will continue delivering and refining content for Super Hero Squad Online, along with building and developing the Marvel Heroes game."

After a series of moves that cut weight from the company, we had to ask if it was positioning itself for a Disney acquisition, considering its two remaining announced projects are Marvel (and therefore Disney) properties. The company denied that being the plan.

It's worth noting that Gazillion inked the rights to Marvel MMOs for ten years back in 2009, before the comic book company was purchased by Disney. At this point, Disney can either keep letting Gazillion hold the rights to what is surely a lucrative property or make it a Galactus-size buyout offer.

Update: A representative for Gazillion tells us, "Fortune Online is shutting down on February 29, however if our records show a player has made a purchase in the game at any point, they will be receiving a full refund to the payment method used."

JoystiqGazillion shutting down Fortune Online, focusing on Marvel properties originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 14 Feb 2012 15:33:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Fortune-OnlineGazilliongazillion-entertainmentlayoffsmarvel-super-hero-squadpcTue, 14 Feb 2012 15:33:00 EST<![CDATA[Sega Studios Australia lays off 37, transitions to digital]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/02/07/sega-studios-australia-lays-off-37-transitions-to-digital/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/02/07/sega-studios-australia-lays-off-37-transitions-to-digital/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/02/07/sega-studios-australia-lays-off-37-transitions-to-digital/#comments Sega Studios Australia, developer of the upcoming London 2012 Olympics game, is laying off 37 of its 80 staffers as part of a restructuring effort. The studio, which features advanced motion-capture facilities, was originally part of The Creative Assembly, and was renamed last year when development of this game was announced.

According to a statement sent to Joystiq, Sega Studios Australia will now focus on digitally distributed titles. "We can confirm that SSA has signed a multi-product deal focussing across the digital marketplace," SSA said. The downsizing effort will "ensure we have a more effective and agile team that will enable us to quickly adapt to consumer needs and deliver strong content across multiple digital platforms," according to the studio.

Find the full statement after the break.

Continue reading Sega Studios Australia lays off 37, transitions to digital

JoystiqSega Studios Australia lays off 37, transitions to digital originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 07 Feb 2012 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>layoffslondon-2012microsoftplaystationps3segasega-studios-australiaxboxTue, 07 Feb 2012 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA[UK retailer Game cuts 46 jobs from HQ]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/02/07/uk-retailer-game-cuts-46-jobs-from-hq/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/02/07/uk-retailer-game-cuts-46-jobs-from-hq/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/02/07/uk-retailer-game-cuts-46-jobs-from-hq/#comments Retailer Game's problematic financial condition has caused the troubled retailed to cut 46 jobs from its UK headquarters.

"Our proposed new structure will change the way that we operate and will enable us to be significantly more efficient in our relationships with suppliers and customers," the company told MCV in a statement. "We are giving our full help and support to the colleagues who are affected by these proposed changes."

As of last November, Game had 1,275 stores in Europe and Australia, but the company is seeking to sell off its international business (you can probably guess who the rumored buyer is). The collapse of Game would impact the overall games industry, as both EA and Take-Two saw fit to mention its problems would impact their sales during both publisher's third quarter financial calls.

JoystiqUK retailer Game cuts 46 jobs from HQ originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 07 Feb 2012 08:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>BritainGamelayoffsUKTue, 07 Feb 2012 08:30:00 EST<![CDATA[David Jaffe leaves Eat Sleep Play, layoffs hit developer [Update]]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/02/07/report-jaffe-leaves-eat-sleep-play-layoffs-hit-developer/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/02/07/report-jaffe-leaves-eat-sleep-play-layoffs-hit-developer/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/02/07/report-jaffe-leaves-eat-sleep-play-layoffs-hit-developer/#comments http://www.blogcdn.com/www.joystiq.com/media/2012/02/jaffeclowncarsonypresser.jpgEat Sleep Play, which will shortly ship Twisted Metal, has reportedly laid off eight employees. The Salt Lake City Tribune also reports that co-founder David Jaffe is out and expected to pursue "casual games." Jaffe responded to the "rumor" of him making casual games after Twisted Metal as "highly exaggerated."

Eat Sleep Play now has a staff of 26 and will transition to iPhone and iPad development. "It's a platform that is in our pockets almost 24/7. It's kind of the size and types of games we're playing," said other co-founder Scott Campbell to the Salt Lake Trib. "You can certainly reach a lot more people. That's pretty exciting for us."

Campbell confirmed Jaffe's departure and said that the company and Jaffe are "going down two separate paths." Twisted Metal is Eat Sleep Play's second project, following the disappointing reception and sales of Calling all Cars. We've contacted Jaffe for clarification of his current status.

Update: David Jaffe has confirmed that following the release of Twisted Metal (along with sticking around for balancing and bug fixing), he will step away from Eat Sleep Play. Jaffe also confirmed an undisclosed number of layoffs. ESP's office is located in Utah, while co-founder David Jaffe currently resides in California. Jaffe cited issues with directing a big game from a distance and a fondness for internal game development as reasons behind his decision to leave.

The Twisted Metal director plans to open a new studio in San Diego and says he is "talking2peeps" for his new company to tackle some "big, huge next gen game ideas" or even "stuff in the browser space" that he labeled as "gamer centric."

JoystiqDavid Jaffe leaves Eat Sleep Play, layoffs hit developer [Update] originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 07 Feb 2012 08:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>calling-all-carsdavid-jaffeeat-sleep-playiosipadiphonelayoffsmobileplaystationps3twisted-metal-2011twisted-metal-2012Tue, 07 Feb 2012 08:00:00 EST<![CDATA[EA in Vancouver sees 'small number' of layoffs]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/02/03/ea-in-vancouver-sees-small-number-of-layoffs/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/02/03/ea-in-vancouver-sees-small-number-of-layoffs/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/02/03/ea-in-vancouver-sees-small-number-of-layoffs/#comments EA's studio in Vancouver, home to EA Canada and Black Box, was hit with layoffs while the studio goes through a "transformation." Apparently it's a lot of transforming, since variants of "transform" show up a lot in the following statement about the transformational studio.

"EA in Vancouver is transforming its studio to align with EA's transformation to high-growth digital formats, including online, social gaming and free-to-play," an EA spokesperson told IndustryGamers. "The Need for Speed World team in Burnaby is leading the digital transformation with 11 million registered players. As the BC studio makes this transformation, a small number of employees are being impacted while most others are being retrained, redeployed and rolling-on to new projects."

EA recently reported a net loss of $205 million in the third quarter, but is seeing significant positive transformation in increased digital product sales.

JoystiqEA in Vancouver sees 'small number' of layoffs originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 03 Feb 2012 20:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>black-boxEAEA-CanadaElectronic-ArtsElectronic-Arts-Vancouverlayoffsneed-for-speed-worldFri, 03 Feb 2012 20:30:00 EST<![CDATA[THQ confirms layoffs of 240 employees [updated]]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/02/01/thq-confirms-layoffs-of-240-employees-across-nine-months/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/02/01/thq-confirms-layoffs-of-240-employees-across-nine-months/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/02/01/thq-confirms-layoffs-of-240-employees-across-nine-months/#comments THQ has confirmed planned layoffs of "up to 240 selling, general and administrative personnel worldwide," with plans to finalize the proceedings by September 30, 2012. The company promises that the "majority" of said layoffs will occur before March 31, 2012 and many of the employees affected have already been notified.

The 240 number is a marked increase from numbers we heard earlier today, making the situation at THQ look all the more dire. Today's announcement reflects specific numbers for layoffs that THQ first confirmed last week.

Though the company makes note of the recently announced restructuring away from kids and licensed titles, nothing is mentioned of the rumored cancelation of the Warhammer 40K MMO. We expect to hear even more when THQ announces its fiscal third quarter results tomorrow afternoon.

Update: THQ tells Joystiq that, "These are the cuts we described in our statement last week. No studios are a part of this. It's administration and publishing offices worldwide." The company declined to comment on whether these layoffs will affect any currently announced projects.

Update 2: This post originally stated that THQ would be laying off the 240 employees across nine months, which is inaccurate. Due to varying employment guidelines around the world and internal financial considerations, the restructuring will be completed by September 30, 2012, but most of the affected employees have already been notified.

JoystiqTHQ confirms layoffs of 240 employees [updated] originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 01 Feb 2012 17:47:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>layoffssecsecurities-and-exchange-commissionthqWed, 01 Feb 2012 17:47:00 EST<![CDATA[Report: THQ VP of Tech Mark DeLoura out, alongside 174 others]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/02/01/report-thq-vp-of-tech-mark-deloura-out-alongside-174-others/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/02/01/report-thq-vp-of-tech-mark-deloura-out-alongside-174-others/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/02/01/report-thq-vp-of-tech-mark-deloura-out-alongside-174-others/#comments When THQ announced plans for layoffs that didn't affect its five main internal studios, we didn't think folks like VP of tech Mark DeLoura would end up getting cut. But that's what an automated response from his email address confirmed to us last night. The response outright states, "Mark DeLoura is no longer with THQ." According to DeLoura's LinkedIn page, he was "responsible for technology strategy, the online game and MMO operations teams, the centralized online technology group, and relationships with platform and technology manufacturers."

More specifically, we're told that DeLoura was leading up management on the upcoming Warhammer 40K MMO -- the same MMO that's rumored to be canceled. At the time, THQ responded to allegations that the MMO was canned with a nebulous statement: "[THQ] has not made any decisions regarding the planned MMO."

Additionally, IGDA Mobile SIG chair Kevin Dent alleges that during the recent round of THQ restructuring, 174 employees were let go -- Dent was the origin of the aforementioned cancelation rumors (he isn't related to Harvey Dent, we're told). The company is also facing potential delisting on the NASDAQ stock exchange. THQ declined to offer comment regarding this report, and once more directed us to this Thursday's investor call.

JoystiqReport: THQ VP of Tech Mark DeLoura out, alongside 174 others originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 01 Feb 2012 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>kevin-dentlayoffslinkedinmark-delourapcreportthqwarhammer-40000-dark-millennium-onlineWed, 01 Feb 2012 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Rumor: THQ reduces AU staff by 14, Japan office set to close [update: THQ responds]]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/01/30/rumor-thq-reduces-au-staff-by-14-japan-office-set-to-close/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/01/30/rumor-thq-reduces-au-staff-by-14-japan-office-set-to-close/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/01/30/rumor-thq-reduces-au-staff-by-14-japan-office-set-to-close/#comments One "anonymous source" speaking to Kotaku's Australian arm believes that more layoffs are affecting THQ, this time specifically targeting 14 AU-based employees and the remainders of the company's Japan-based office. As has been the company line throughout the the past week of intermittent layoffs, "THQ's five internal studios have not ben affected," the piece says, referencing THQ San Diego, Relic, Volition, Vigil and THQ Montreal.

The rumor seemingly falls in step with last week's news of "administrative and publishing departments" being affected, as THQ's Australian and Japanese presence amounts to little more than distribution offices. The rumors follow two confirmed rounds of layoffs at the ailing publisher, whose stock price is trading at roughly $.70 currently.

THQ had yet to return request for comment as of publishing, but we'll update this post as we hear more. The publisher will report its financial third quarter results this Thursday, where it's promising more information about recent restructuring.

Update: THQ issued a response to Joystiq, which reads: "The actions in APAC [Asia-Pacific] are related to our reduction in force from last week - same statement applies. However, 'closing' is not accurate as we still have staff on the ground there and our OZ office has always handled our business relationships in APAC."

JoystiqRumor: THQ reduces AU staff by 14, Japan office set to close [update: THQ responds] originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 30 Jan 2012 08:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>australiajapanlayoffsreportrumorthqthq-australiathq-japanMon, 30 Jan 2012 08:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Future US eliminates 19 jobs, not shuttering any brands]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/01/26/future-us-eliminates-19-jobs-not-shuttering-any-brands/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/01/26/future-us-eliminates-19-jobs-not-shuttering-any-brands/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/01/26/future-us-eliminates-19-jobs-not-shuttering-any-brands/#comments Future Publishing US eliminated 19 jobs today as part of overall changes taking place at the company. None of its brands, which include Nintendo Power, PlayStation: The Official Magazine, OXM and @Gamer, will be discontinued.

"Future US is currently working to reposition itself in the marketplace to transform the company from an old school publisher to a hybrid publisher," Future COO Rachelle Considine told Joystiq. "While many 'old school' publishing companies and outlets have folded completely, Future US is in process of retooling and reshaping the organization to succeed, and thrive in the digital era."

Future announced late last year that it was merging its US and UK operation, following the resignations of its CEO and CFO.

JoystiqFuture US eliminates 19 jobs, not shuttering any brands originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 26 Jan 2012 17:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>FutureFuture-publishinglayoffsThu, 26 Jan 2012 17:30:00 EST<![CDATA[THQ incurs more layoffs, five internal studios not affected]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/01/26/thq-incurs-more-layoffs-five-internal-studios-not-affected/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/01/26/thq-incurs-more-layoffs-five-internal-studios-not-affected/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/01/26/thq-incurs-more-layoffs-five-internal-studios-not-affected/#comments THQ went through another wave of layoffs today, which affected its administrative and publishing departments. The company would not share details about how many people lost their jobs, but stressed that this did not affect its five internal studios: THQ San Diego, Relic, Volition, Vigil and THQ Montreal.

"As recently announced, the company is exiting the kids' licensed games category, and is focusing on its core game franchises and developing its digital initiatives," THQ stated on the issue. "The company will provide greater financial detail regarding the costs and organizational benefit on its third quarter 2012 conference call scheduled for Thursday, February 2, 2012."

THQ announced a new strategic realignment earlier this week, shutting down its children's properties and focusing on "core games," like those provided by the unaffected studios.

JoystiqTHQ incurs more layoffs, five internal studios not affected originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 26 Jan 2012 14:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Layoffsmicrosoftnintendopcplaystationps3THQwiixboxThu, 26 Jan 2012 14:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Alleged former THQ staffer sends furious note to board, press]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/01/25/alleged-former-thq-staffer-sends-furious-note-to-board-press/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/01/25/alleged-former-thq-staffer-sends-furious-note-to-board-press/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/01/25/alleged-former-thq-staffer-sends-furious-note-to-board-press/#comments An anonymous letter sent to media and THQ's board of directors, allegedly written by a former employee of THQ, rains fire on the company's management and, specifically, CEO Brian Farrell. The letter arrives the same day as THQ announces another strategic realignment, a little over a week after the company had to spin a major cancellation rumor and over a month after THQ's stock dropped below $1.

"It is to the point where having [THQ] on your resume is not a point in your favor. And that shouldn't be the case," the "Formerly Mismanaged" writes. "I'm/We're sending this note anonymously because some of us are still awaiting final checks and others know how little corporations like employees who air their dirty laundry. We feel the need to say something to combat the partial misinformation being written."

The Formerly Mismanaged lays out its belief that the beginning of the end came when the cash rich company went on an acquisition spree years ago, allegedly "with no plan" -- many of those studios have since been shuttered or sold off. Then came what the accuser(s) call bad licensing deals and the most recent business miscalculation with the uDraw tablet, which caused the company to lower its fiscal outlook for the year.

The scope of THQ's problems is expected to come into slightly better focus when it announces its current financial position on February 2. Wedbush Morgan Financial Analyst Michael Pachter has pointed out he believes THQ will generate a "substantial loss" at the end of its fiscal year and that "THQ is at risk of running out of cash by the June 2012 quarter."

You can read the entire letter by "The Formerly Mismanaged" after the break.

Continue reading Alleged former THQ staffer sends furious note to board, press

JoystiqAlleged former THQ staffer sends furious note to board, press originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 25 Jan 2012 09:10:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>anonymousBrian-FarrellFormerly-Mismanagedlayoffsmicrosoftnintendopcplaystationps3saints-row-the-thirdTHQwiiwii-uxboxWed, 25 Jan 2012 09:10:00 EST<![CDATA[TIGA: UK 'brain drain' sees nearly half of laid-off devs leaving country]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/01/19/tiga-uk-brain-drain-sees-nearly-half-of-laid-off-devs-leaving/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/01/19/tiga-uk-brain-drain-sees-nearly-half-of-laid-off-devs-leaving/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/01/19/tiga-uk-brain-drain-sees-nearly-half-of-laid-off-devs-leaving/#comments Britain's developer workforce has fallen 10 percent since 2008, and 41 percent of studio employees laid off between 2009 and 2011 have relocated out of the country, UK-games trade association TIGA reports. TIGA is publishing a survey from Games Investor Consulting that covers three-fourths of the UK games industry and warns of a brain drain in the UK.

Bizarre Creations, a Liverpool studio that closed in 2010, saw one-third of its former employees leave the UK for new jobs in the games industry, according to the report. It also claims that countries such as Canada can entice UK talent because they benefit from tax breaks that reduce the cost of game development. The UK currently doesn't have comparable tax breaks, but "the video games industry is exactly the kind of sector that the Government should be supporting to help rebalance the UK economy," TIGA CEO Richard Wilson says.

JoystiqTIGA: UK 'brain drain' sees nearly half of laid-off devs leaving country originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 19 Jan 2012 23:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>BizarreBizarre-Creationsbrain-drainbritainlayoffsmacmicrosoftmobilepcplaystationps3TigaukxboxThu, 19 Jan 2012 23:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Ubisoft shutters Vancouver studio]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/01/17/ubisoft-shutters-vancouver-studio/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/01/17/ubisoft-shutters-vancouver-studio/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/01/17/ubisoft-shutters-vancouver-studio/#comments Ubisoft's studio in Vancouver, previously known as Action Pants, has been shut down by the publisher. The Vancouver studio was responsible for the publisher's Pure Futbol and Academy of Champions: Soccer. Don't feel bad if you've never heard of either before -- we had to dig deep to find a mention.

"Unfortunately, we haven't found the right formula for success for the talented team there," Ubi told Game Informer. "We thank our Vancouver team for their hard work and the projects that they have delivered."

Ubi said team members will have the opportunity to consider positions at other Ubisoft studios. We're sure Toronto, Quebec or Montreal could always use the help pushing out this year's Assassin's Creed (with soccer-based tower defense minigame).

JoystiqUbisoft shutters Vancouver studio originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 17 Jan 2012 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>layoffsmicrosoftnintendoplaystationps3Ubisoftubisoft-vancouverwiixboxTue, 17 Jan 2012 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Report: Monumental Games fires remaining employees]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/01/10/report-monumental-games-fires-remaining-employees/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/01/10/report-monumental-games-fires-remaining-employees/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/01/10/report-monumental-games-fires-remaining-employees/#commentsMonumental Games, developer of the MotoGP series, has let its remaining 20 staffers go. Develop reports that the Nottingham UK studio is now in administration.

Monumental Games announced in December 2010 that it was working on restructuring the business and not issuing any more layoffs. The month prior, the company administered deep cuts to the staff after an unannounced project for a large publisher fell through.

And, so, we use our depressing "layoffs" tag for the second time in 2012 on the same day.

JoystiqReport: Monumental Games fires remaining employees originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 10 Jan 2012 16:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>layoffsmonumentalmonumental-gamesMotoGP-0910Tue, 10 Jan 2012 16:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Bethesda confirms layoffs at id Software: 'Work on future id titles continues unabated']]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/01/10/bethesda-confirms-layoffs-at-id-software-work-on-future-id-tit/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/01/10/bethesda-confirms-layoffs-at-id-software-work-on-future-id-tit/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/01/10/bethesda-confirms-layoffs-at-id-software-work-on-future-id-tit/#comments id Software's parent company, Bethesda Softworks, confirmed with Joystiq this afternoon that an unknown quantity of employees at the Rage development studio have been let go. "As part of its standard business practice, id regularly evaluates staffing to ensure it has a workforce that meets the needs of the studio. As part of that process, some id employees were recently let go," the statement reads.

Despite the layoffs, the publisher additionally noted that it is "still recruiting and hiring qualified developers" for id Software, and that "development work on future id titles continues unabated." id Software is currently working on Doom 4, the next entry in a long-running franchise for the studio, as it has been for the past four-ish years.

JoystiqBethesda confirms layoffs at id Software: 'Work on future id titles continues unabated' originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 10 Jan 2012 15:04:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bethesdabethesda-softworksid-softwarelayoffsrageTue, 10 Jan 2012 15:04:00 EST<![CDATA[S.T.A.L.K.E.R. devs: 'There is cause for hope,' more news in January]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/12/23/s-t-a-l-k-e-r-devs-there-is-cause-for-hope-more-news-in-jan/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/12/23/s-t-a-l-k-e-r-devs-there-is-cause-for-hope-more-news-in-jan/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/12/23/s-t-a-l-k-e-r-devs-there-is-cause-for-hope-more-news-in-jan/#comments GSC Game World, developer of the S.T.A.L.K.E.R. series, was rumored to have shut down earlier this month, a move that would have affected roughly 45 employees. However, GSC still appears to be alive and kicking wiggling its legs slightly, announcing via Twitter that "there is cause for hope!"

In the same tweet, GSC said it "will not be releasing any official news until around mid January," which suggests the studio will still be running in some capacity at least until then. GSC was developing S.T.A.L.K.E.R. 2, and we can only hope for some good news in January from the studio.

JoystiqS.T.A.L.K.E.R. devs: 'There is cause for hope,' more news in January originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 23 Dec 2011 14:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>closureGSC-Game-Worldhopelayoffspcs.t.a.l.k.e.r.stalker-2Fri, 23 Dec 2011 14:45:00 EST<![CDATA[THQ lays off 30 Play THQ employees]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/12/10/thq-lays-off-30-play-thq-employees/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/12/10/thq-lays-off-30-play-thq-employees/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/12/10/thq-lays-off-30-play-thq-employees/#comments The business world, like the rest of the world, is a cruel and unforgiving mistress. Following the "weaker than expected" sales figures achieved by THQ's uDraw tablet during the third quarter of the 2012 fiscal year, THQ has let go 30 members of its Play THQ team; the Agoura Hills unit responsible for uDraw.

"We are taking a difficult but important step to reduce the number of employees that supported this brand," a THQ representative said in a statement to Game Informer. "30 people will be leaving the company and business unit leader Martin Good will also be leaving to pursue new opportunities outside the company."

THQ is still hopeful that the success of Saints Row: The Third and WWE '12 will pull out a fourth quarter turnaround before the end of fiscal 2012.

JoystiqTHQ lays off 30 Play THQ employees originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 10 Dec 2011 13:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>firedfiscal-2012laid-offlay-offslayoffslet-gomicrosoftnintendoplaystationps3Q3Q4tabletTHQuDrawwiixboxSat, 10 Dec 2011 13:30:00 EST<![CDATA[S.T.A.L.K.E.R. developer GSC shut down]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/12/09/rumor-s-t-a-l-k-e-r-developer-gsc-shut-down/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/12/09/rumor-s-t-a-l-k-e-r-developer-gsc-shut-down/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/12/09/rumor-s-t-a-l-k-e-r-developer-gsc-shut-down/#comments Ukrainian developer GSC Game World, creators of the S.T.A.L.K.E.R. series, have reportedly shut down. The details regarding the closure are currently very s.k.e.t.c.h.y. UkraNews reports, citing sources, that CEO Sergei Grigorovich told the staff in a meeting this morning that he had decided to close the company. GSC is said to have had between 40-50 employees.

RockPaperShotgun, which has been on top of this story, got in touch with GSC and obtained the ominous: "Sorry, no comments at this point."

STALKER 2 was expected to launch sometime in 2012. We'll update as more information becomes available.

Update: Details are still a mess, but it appears GSC has been shuttered.

JoystiqS.T.A.L.K.E.R. developer GSC shut down originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 09 Dec 2011 12:20:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>GSC-Game-WorldlayoffspcStalkerstalker-2stalker-call-of-pripyatFri, 09 Dec 2011 12:20:00 EST<![CDATA[Diner Dash dev PlayFirst hit with layoffs after social games fail]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/12/07/diner-dash-dev-playfirst-hit-with-layoffs-after-social-games-fai/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/12/07/diner-dash-dev-playfirst-hit-with-layoffs-after-social-games-fai/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/12/07/diner-dash-dev-playfirst-hit-with-layoffs-after-social-games-fai/#comments PlayFirst, developer of mobile and social games like Diner Dash and Chocolatier, is going through a period of "restructuring." According to Gamasutra, this includes an unspecified number of layoffs at the studio, which had over 100 employees.

The company's stated focus on the saturated social games market has not been successful. PlayFirst shut down all its Facebook efforts, including the social adaptation of its previously successful Diner Dash franchise. Gamasutra also reports that other social games veterans who joined PlayFirst have since left for Playdom or Zynga.

The bad times haven't deterred PlayFirst. A representative for the company stated, "Our future plans are to continue to focus on the mobile casual gaming space."

JoystiqDiner Dash dev PlayFirst hit with layoffs after social games fail originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 07 Dec 2011 14:25:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>chocolatierdiner-dashfacebooklayoffsplayfirstsocialWed, 07 Dec 2011 14:25:00 EST<![CDATA[Report: Layoffs at Day 1 Studios following canned Konami deal]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/12/03/report-layoffs-at-day-1-studios-following-canned-konami-deal/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/12/03/report-layoffs-at-day-1-studios-following-canned-konami-deal/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/12/03/report-layoffs-at-day-1-studios-following-canned-konami-deal/#comments One hundred employees were fired at Day 1 Studios following the loss of a publishing agreement with Konami, according to a report at Gamespot. Those 100 workers made up 95 percent of a team that was developing a new installment of Konami's ancient Silent Scope series; a second, much smaller team working on an unrelated secondary project remains unaffected.

So far there has been no indication of what led to the cancellation of the developer's publishing deal, although the fact that the team was primarily fired instead of disolved and reassigned within the company speaks volumes about the importance of this deal, as well as Day 1's overall financial situation.

The only way we'll know what actually happened is if either party decides to talk, which hasn't happened yet. Maybe Konami realized that Silent Scope games never worked well outside of the arcade and decided to pull the plug? Maybe Day 1 tried to relaunch the brand as an action-RPG stealth-shmup pixel-art XBLIG title? There's really no way of knowing.

JoystiqReport: Layoffs at Day 1 Studios following canned Konami deal originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 03 Dec 2011 11:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>day-1Day-1-Studioskonamilayoffssilent-scopeSat, 03 Dec 2011 11:30:00 EST