Supermassive Games Cuts Jobs and Delays Game Release

Supermassive Games, known for its horror titles, will reduce staff by 36 and postpone the release of Directive 8020 to 2026.

Supermassive Games Announces Layoffs and Delays for Horror Game Directive 8020

Supermassive Games has announced layoffs affecting up to 36 staff members while also delaying its much-anticipated sci-fi horror title, Directive 8020, until the first half of 2026. The studio stated that the restructuring was necessary to better align with an ever-changing environment in the gaming industry. This decision comes just months after a previous round of job cuts in March 2024, when the company let go of about 90 workers. With this latest round of reductions, Supermassive has now reduced its workforce by nearly a third in the last 18 months. The studio remains committed to its projects, emphasizing that the delay for Directive 8020 will enhance the game experience for fans, who have been patiently waiting since the game was first hinted at in 2022.

Supermassive Games faces a difficult path ahead, as it navigates both staff reductions and project delays. The layoffs signal deeper issues within the company, reflecting broader trends in the gaming industry where studios struggle to keep up with market demands and evolving player expectations. The decision to push the release of Directive 8020 further into 2026 highlights the challenges that can arise from such turbulence, and it remains to be seen how fans will respond to the extended wait. This situation not only affects the production pipeline but also the morale of remaining employees and the community of gamers eagerly awaiting the next installment.

Highlights

As Supermassive navigates these turbulent changes, the future of its franchises remains uncertain but crucial for fans.