Tomb Raider developer Crystal Dynamics has announced a number of layoffs, calling it a “difficult decision”.
17 “talented” staff have been affected by today’s layoffs, the studio shared in a statement, though it’s unclear which teams they are from.
“Ultimately, this step was necessary to better align our current business needs and the studio’s future success. It is not a reflection of the dedication or ability of those affected,” Crystal Dynamics wrote.
“We recognise how painful this outcome is for those impacted and we are supporting them with transition packages and opportunity outreach.”
The studio “remains committed to pushing the boundaries of making great games”, it said, adding today’s layoffs will not alter its current project plans.
Crystal Dynamics is currently working on the next installment in the Tomb Raider series. Little is known about the upcoming game, which is being developed alongside Amazon. In 2022, Amazon said it would provide its “full support” to Crystal Dynamics, as it works on “the biggest, most expansive” series entry to date.
Details have remained fairly sparse for the upcoming Tomb Raider. In fact, all we really know right now is that it is being made in Unreal Engine 5 and will have “mind-bending puzzles to solve” and a “wide variety of enemies to face and overcome”.
In August last year, Amazon Games boss Christoph Hartmann said development on the upcoming Tomb Raider game from Crystal Dynamics and Amazon was “going well”.