What's Happening?
The Outsiders, the studio behind Metal Hellsinger, is closing due to layoffs announced by Funcom. Founder David Goldfarb shared the news, reflecting on the team's resilience and past challenges, including the cancellation of Darkborn. Despite the success of Dune: Awakening, Funcom has decided to restructure, affecting its Stockholm team of approximately 60 people. Goldfarb expressed hope for future projects and the possibility of continuing game development in a new form.
Why It's Important?
The closure of The Outsiders is significant for the gaming industry, as it demonstrates the challenges studios face even after successful game releases. The layoffs may affect the industry's workforce and creative output, as talented developers seek new opportunities. The situation highlights the need for sustainable business models and the impact of corporate decisions on creative teams. It also raises questions about the future of game development and the industry's ability to support innovative projects.
What's Next?
The Outsiders team is exploring ways to continue game development, seeking support for business leads and employee placement. Funcom's focus will likely shift towards Dune: Awakening's live service, influencing its future development strategies. The industry will be watching how Funcom manages these changes and whether other studios will face similar challenges.
