IO Interactive have announced that they’ve laid off nearly half of their current workforce in a restructuring effort to refocus on the Hitman series. This new focus has meant that all other projects have been canceled effective immediately. Hannes Siefert, previously the production director, will take over as the new studio head as part of the restructuring.
The news, as reported by Games Industry came from a Square Enix Europe representative.
“We are making significant changes at IO Interactive as we align our business against a changing and challenging market. Hannes Seifert, formerly Production Director for 3 years at the studio, will take over the position of Studio Head at IO.”
“The studio will focus resolutely on the future vision for the Hitman franchise and is in pre-production on a new AAA Hitman project. However we have taken the difficult decision to cancel other studio projects and initiatives at IO and reduce the workforce in this studio, which will impact almost half of the employees currently at IO, as we make internal adjustments to face the challenges of today’s market.”
“For those affected, we are extremely grateful for the hard work which they have contributed, and where it’s possible and appropriate to relocate staff to open positions at other studios within the group, we will try to do so,” said the rep. “We are also reaching out to other companies for outplacement opportunities. We sincerely wish them well in their future careers. If you are part of a company that is looking for additional development talent, please contact us directly at [email protected]”
The news comes after sales figures revealed that Hitman: Absolution as well as other Square Enix games failed to meet expectations.
PCGamesN wishes everyone affected the best of luck in the future.