Days Gone Developer Bend Studio Announces 30% Workforce Reduction

Sony’s Bend Studio, known for developing the popular game Days Gone, is facing significant staff reductions as it navigates a challenging transition. The Oregon-based studio has confirmed layoffs affecting approximately 30 percent of its workforce, following the cancellation of its live service title earlier this year. While the exact number of employees impacted has not been disclosed, reports suggest that around 40 individuals have lost their jobs. The studio expressed gratitude towards the affected staff in a recent statement.

Details of the Layoffs

The layoffs at Bend Studio were first reported by Bloomberg’s Jason Schreier, who indicated that the cuts represent a substantial portion of the studio’s team. In a statement released on social media, Bend Studio acknowledged the difficult decision, thanking the departing employees for their contributions to the studio’s journey. The statement emphasized the studio’s commitment to moving forward with creativity and innovation in future projects. This round of layoffs marks a significant shift for the studio, which has been a part of the PlayStation Studios family.

Impact of Project Cancellations

The layoffs come in the wake of the cancellation of a live service project that Bend Studio had been developing. This project was scrapped alongside another unannounced live service game from Sony’s Bluepoint Games earlier this year. Reports suggest that Bluepoint was working on a live service title related to the God of War franchise. A Sony spokesperson had previously acknowledged the talent within both studios and indicated that they are exploring new project opportunities following the cancellations. This shift reflects a broader reevaluation of Sony’s strategy regarding live service games, which has seen multiple titles canceled over the past year.

Recent Developments at Bend Studio

In April, Bend Studio released a remastered version of Days Gone for the PlayStation 5, featuring enhanced visuals, DualSense controller support, and new accessibility options. This remaster aimed to breathe new life into the beloved title, showcasing the studio’s commitment to quality and innovation. However, the recent layoffs and project cancellations raise questions about the studio’s future direction and the potential impact on its upcoming projects. As Bend Studio navigates this challenging period, it remains focused on building a creative and passionate team to shape its future endeavors.


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