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IO Interactive lays off staff amid project shift but commits to Project Fantasy

Aggregated by BrevFeed general Β· updated 2d ago
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IO Interactive is laying off staff following the end of its partnership with a publisher for Project Fantasy, described as an online fantasy RPG. Despite these cuts, the company remains committed to the project's development.

Key points

Layoffs Announced

IO Interactive has announced layoffs as a direct result of the end of its collaboration with an external partner on Project Fantasy. The number of staff affected has not been disclosed, but the company has stated its commitment to support those impacted during this challenging transition.

Project Fantasy Overview

Project Fantasy is touted by IO Interactive as an online fantasy RPG. Although the studio is facing staffing changes, it has expressed unwavering dedication to bringing this new intellectual property to life, indicating that the game will still progress despite the setbacks.

Changes in Microsoft's Strategy

Reports suggest that Microsoft was set to publish Project Fantasy but is undergoing a strategic reset, leading to cuts across its Xbox business. An Xbox spokesperson mentioned a focus on prioritizing investments but denied a decrease in overall game funding, although specific project backing has shifted.

Context and Implications

The layoffs at IO Interactive come on the heels of successful projects, including the recent 007 First Light, signaling a tough recalibration for the studio. This situation reflects broader trends in the gaming industry, where partnerships and funding dynamics can shift rapidly, affecting development trajectories.

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Reporting from

IO Interactive is laying off staff following the end of its partnership with a publisher for Project Fantasy, described as an online fantasy RPG. Despite these cuts, the company remains committed to the project's development.