Major Changes at Bend Studio as Staff Departures Occur
Sony-owned Bend Studio, the developer behind the popular game Days Gone, has recently announced layoffs affecting an unspecified number of employees. The studio is currently in a period of transition, moving from its previous projects toward a new, yet-to-be-disclosed venture.
Official Statement Reflects Difficult Transition
In a brief message shared via social media, Bend Studio acknowledged the layoffs, describing them as a necessary step during this transitional phase. The statement expressed that it is “a difficult moment for our team” but emphasized gratitude for the contributions of departing staff members. The studio stated:
“Today, we said goodbye to some incredibly talented teammates as we transition to our next project. We’re deeply thankful for their contributions, which have shaped who we are, and their impact will always be part of our story. This is a challenging time, but we hold immense respect for everyone who helped us reach this point. Moving forward, we remain committed to building the future of Bend Studio with creativity, passion, and innovation in the titles we craft.”
Uncertain Future and Scope of Reductions
While Bend Studio did not specify what its upcoming project will be or how many employees have been affected, industry insider Jason Schreier from Bloomberg reports that approximately 30% of the studio’s workforce—roughly 40 people—have been laid off. When questioned about the possibility of a complete shutdown, Schreier indicated that such an outcome was “unlikely,” suggesting management is actively trying to keep the studio afloat despite these challenges.
Context: Recent Cancellations and Industry Trends
The layoffs follow a series of setbacks for Bend Studio. Earlier this year, Sony canceled two unannounced projects in development at Bend Studio and Bluepoint Games. One of these was reportedly a live-service game set in the God of War universe, while details about Bend’s own upcoming live-service game remain unknown. Despite these cancellations, a community manager from Bend Studio reaffirmed the team’s commitment to creating innovative and exciting new content.
The studio’s last major release was Days Gone in 2019 for PlayStation 4, with a PC port launching in 2021. The current layoffs are part of a broader pattern of industry-wide layoffs and project cancellations, exemplified recently by People Can Fly, the developer behind Outriders, which also announced staff reductions following the cancellation of two projects.
Industry-Wide Challenges and Uncertain Horizons
The gaming industry continues to face significant shifts, with studios frequently adjusting their staffing and project pipelines in response to market conditions and corporate strategies. The situation at Bend Studio exemplifies the ongoing cycle of development, cancellation, and restructuring that many developers are experiencing today.
Vikki Blake is a seasoned journalist, critic, and columnist with over 15 years of experience working with leading gaming publications. She is known for her insightful analysis and passion for the industry. You can find her contributions across various media outlets and social platforms.
Alex Hunter
Alex is a passionate gamer with over a decade of experience exploring everything from AAA blockbusters to indie gems. He specializes in uncovering hidden secrets, mastering complex mechanics, and creating in-depth walkthroughs. Whether it’s a challenging boss fight or a puzzling questline, Alex breaks it all down in a way that’s fun, clear, and engaging for readers of all levels.
