The Callisto Protocol’s developer, Striking Distance Studios, has been hit with layoffs

Striking Distance Studios lays off 32 employees as the developer realigns its priorities

Striking Distance Studios, the developer behind 2022’s The Callisto Protocol, has confirmed that they have laid off 32 employees  as the company implements strategic changes following the release of The Callisto Protocol’s final DLC in June. 

In a statement to IGN, Striking Distance Studios has stated that they are working to “realign the studio’s priorities” to help guarantee success for the company’s current and future projects. Below is the statement that was provided to IGN.

     Striking Distance Studios and [publisher] Krafton have implemented strategic changes that realign the studio’s priorities to better position its current and future projects for success. Unfortunately, these changes have impacted 32 employees.

Honouring the invaluable contributions of each departing team member with material support in the form of outplacement services and meaningful severance packages is our top priority during this difficult moment.

The Callisto Protocol was marketed as a spiritual successor to Dead Space, with Glen Schofield, the co-creator of Dead Space, leading the game’s development. At launch, The Callisto Protocol received mixed reviews and did not sell as well as anticipated. As such, The Callisto Protocol has been considered a failure by some. 

After the completion of major game projects, it is not uncommon for game studios to downsize. It is an easy way for game developers to save money as they enter pre-production for their next game project. Once these studios are ready, they can than expand to full production strength once the groundwork for their next project is complete. While this strategy is not good for employees, as it destroys job security, it makes sense at a strategic level.

We hope that Striking Distance Studio’s laid off staff can quickly find work elsewhere within the videogame industry. 

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