Key information
Ninja Theory, the studio behind Hellblade, appears to be initiating staff redundancies after Microsoft previously revealed the developer would face closure. Two separate acquisition deals to purchase the studio following its split from Xbox reportedly fell through.
Former Game Developer journalist Chris Kerr noted that multiple Ninja Theory staff members have shared on LinkedIn that they are seeking new positions or face the risk of redundancy. Impacted personnel include technical sound designer Alessio Mellina and performance capture tech Xoe Suvari.
Gameplay programmer Katrin Mair expressed sorrow over an unconfirmed Senua project that may remain unfinished, praising the care and effort of her colleagues. Additional staff members, including technical director Loong-Wei Ding and various sound and art professionals, shared similar updates regarding their employment status.
These layoffs occur alongside broader workforce reductions at Xbox affecting other studios such as Double Fine, Arkane, Undead Labs, and Compulsion. Reports also indicate Microsoft previously showcased Ninja Theory's unreleased game at Summer Game Fest in an effort to secure a potential buyer.
