In a post on LinkedIn today, Metroid Dread developer MercurySteam has revealed that it will be suffering from layoffs in the immediate future. As the company writes, “There is no easy way to share this kind of news, but today we must communicate that MercurySteam has initiated a workforce adjustment process.” Specific numbers weren’t given, but any amount of layoffs is never a good thing.
The layoffs are likely a result of its previous game, Blades of Fire, underperforming. Released last year as an Epic Games Store and PlayStation 5 exclusive (it will be heading to Steam this month), the game reviewed decently, but seemingly failed to generate interest from the wider public. There were also accusations of crunch lobbied against the studio, which certainly didn’t help the reputation of its new game.
“While this is something common within the production cycles of our industry, it is nonetheless a difficult and painful situation,” writes the studio. “We want to express our deepest respect, gratitude, and support for the people affected, whose talent, effort, and commitment have been an important part of the studio’s history.”
It then provides an email address so any companies looking for talent may reach out to hire those affected.
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Written by Peter Glagowski
Peter has been a freelance gaming and film critic for over seven years. His passion for Nintendo is only matched by the size of his collection.
