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Splitgate 2 goes back into beta amid layoffs

1047 Games has returned Splitgate 2 to beta following staff cuts and feedback from players.

July 23, 2025 at 08:57 AM

Splitgate 2 goes back into beta resulting in layoffs and server shutdowns

1047 Games is revisiting Splitgate 2's beta phase after staff layoffs and server shutdowns.

Splitgate 2 returns to beta as layoffs hit 1047 Games

1047 Games has decided to put Splitgate 2 back into beta, just two months post-launch. This shift comes alongside layoffs of about 45 staff members while also taking the original Splitgate offline. Founder Ian Proulx acknowledged in a statement that the studio rushed its sequel's debut, revealing that they did not provide the quality of gameplay fans expected. The team committed to making significant improvements, including enhancing game progression and modifying monetization strategies. Amidst these changes, the studio's leadership expressed sorrow over the layoffs, stating, "This is heartbreaking. These are our teammates and our friends." Currently, Splitgate 2 has about 1,700 players online at peak times, a sharp decline from its launch numbers, which once soared over 25,000.

Key Takeaways

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1047 Games is reverting Splitgate 2 to beta to address quality issues.

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The company has laid off around 45 employees in this restructuring.

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Game monetization strategies are being revised in response to player feedback.

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Player numbers have significantly declined since the game's launch.

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The studio aims to enhance game progression and player experience.

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1047 Games expressed deep regret over the layoffs, citing emotional impacts.

"This is heartbreaking. These are our teammates and our friends."

Acknowledgment of emotional impact due to layoffs by 1047 Games.

"We had ambitious goals with Splitgate 2, and in our excitement to share it with you, we bit off more than we could chew."

Founder Ian Proulx on the rushed launch of Splitgate 2.

"We've faced a lot of dark days and have made many mistakes, but we've learned a lot and are as determined as ever to make Splitgate as great as possible."

Commitment to improvement and perseverance after setbacks.

"The path to regaining player trust may be challenging, but the intent to engage with the community is promising."

Comment on the importance of community engagement for future success.

The decision to revert to a beta phase highlights the growing challenges in the gaming industry, particularly for indie developers. High expectations from players combined with competitive pressure often lead studios to rush product launches. The layoffs signal not just a shift in operational strategy but also a troubling reality for gaming companies facing similar pressures. Players respond intensely to developments in online communities, and 1047's commitment to improving Splitgate 2 reflects a broader trend of increasing responsiveness from developers. The path to regaining player trust might be challenging, but the intent to engage with the community is promising.

Highlights

Rushed features led to staff layoffs and beta backtrack.
This is heartbreaking. These are our teammates and our friends.
We've learned a lot and are determined to make Splitgate great.
We are committing to a community-first approach.

Staff layoffs and financial restructuring raise concerns

1047 Games faces backlash from the community due to layoffs following a rushed game launch. This situation may affect future investor confidence and studio morale.

The journey ahead for Splitgate 2 may be fraught with challenges, but community engagement is essential for its revival.

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splitgate 1047 games gaming video games indie games gaming technology business

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