Hi-Rez is going through its second round of layoffs in four months
Hi-Rez Studios is undergoing significant changes with the latest round of layoffs and the ending of development on popular games like Paladins, Rogue Company, and potentially Smite 1.
This decision seems to stem from a focus on Smite 2, but it has sparked mixed reactions from fans and developers.
Let’s check the reasons behind these changes and how they might affect the future of these beloved multiplayer titles.
Here is what is in the article!
- “Hi-Rez Studios lays off 50-60 employees, focusing on Smite 2’s future while ending major updates for Paladins and Rogue Company.”
- “Layoffs and game update halts spark concern among players and staff, with criticism over management’s prioritization of Smite 2.”
- “Restructuring aims to ensure Smite 2’s long-term sustainability, but raises questions about the viability of other games in Hi-Rez’s portfolio.”
Hi-Rez Studios Layoffs Citing Restructuring
Hi-Rez Studios has recently laid off a significant number of employees, with reports suggesting around 50-60 employees have been affected.
These layoffs are part of a broader restructuring effort aimed at ensuring the long-term success of Smite 2, a game that transitioned to a free-to-play model from paid early access.
Hi-Rez esports manager Hinduman confirmed the layoffs On Discord,
“Unfortunately, Hi-Rez is restructuring and conducting layoffs today, which will affect teams across the studio, including eSports. As changes within the company continue to unfold, we want to reaffirm our ongoing commitment to the future of competitive SMITE 2. The structure and competition will evolve from what players and fans may have been accustomed to throughout SMITE’s history, but organized competitive play will remain a high priority, and cash prizing will be provided by Hi-Rez. In the coming weeks, we will provide further updates regarding planned competitions, including details on prize pools and formats. Additionally, community tournament organizers can expect the finalization of Diamond Prize Pool support, which will soon be made available to help sustain and expand competitive opportunities across multiple tiers of play.”
The decision to focus exclusively on Smite 2 reflects the company’s strategic emphasis on sustainability.
CEO Stewart Chisam explained that these changes are necessary to position Smite 2 for a long and sustainable future, despite acknowledging the heartbreaking impact on those who lost their jobs.
However, with the recent layoff news the fans are disappointed with the CEO.
They even started a thread on reddit demanding the resignation of Hi-Rez’s CEO Stewart Chisam.
The company aims to concentrate efforts on this game while continuing to support small teams working on Paladins and Smite 1 with light updates.
Impact on Smite, Paladins, and Rogue Company
The discontinuation of updates for Paladins, Rogue Company, and Smite 1 has raised significant concerns about the future of these games.
Reddit User- Archkys said “Paladins is such a gem wrapped in this (the playerbase and the company), it was the game that made me and many other fall in love with hero shooter because we were too poor for OW at the time. They stopped releasing content month/years ago already)”
Paladins Development
Paladins, a game developed by Hi-Rez Studios, is speculated to cease major updates.
The game, despite its seven-year development, has seen a dwindling player base.
The Paladin’s community is frustrated, with many questioning the company’s management choices, citing a lack of support and neglect towards the game.
Rogue Company Future
Rogue Company, another popular title from Hi-Rez Studios, is also facing the end of major updates.
The game’s future seems uncertain, with many players expressing skepticism about the company’s ability to sustain it.
Focus on Smite 2 a Strategic Shift or a Mistake?
Hi-Rez Studios has made a strategic decision to prioritize Smite 2 amidst recent layoffs and the halt of developments for Paladins and Rogue Company.
This shift is likely driven by the need to align team costs with revenues, ensuring the sustainability of Smite 2 in a challenging market.
The layoffs, which have affected various divisions including designers, QA, marketing, and social media, aim to streamline operations for Smite 2.
This move suggests that Hi-Rez Studios believes in the future of Smite 2, aiming for a steady flow of new content and sustained player engagement.
However, this strategic shift has raised questions about the potential long-term viability of other games in their portfolio.
Reddit User- phainonsbike said “Their focus on Smite 2 seems a bit strange. There’s no long term path for it, the game struggles to bring in new players and most of the existing base are those supporters from Smite 1. Stopping the other games and firing a bunch of people does not give the existing base a reason to stick around.“
The recent layoffs at Hi-Rez Studios have left both developers and fans uncertain.
With a focus solely on Smite 2, the future of Paladins and Rogue Company remains questionable.
Fans express frustration over past missteps by Hi-Rez, yet others hold out hope for improvement.
As the gaming industry continues to evolve, one thing is clear, strategic changes demand careful consideration to ensure long-term success.