Crystal Dynamics, best known for creating the Tomb Raider series, has confirmed it let go of 17 employees. The studio is currently working on the next installment in the Tomb Raider franchise although the progress details remain sketchy.
“This morning, Crystal Dynamics made the difficult decision to reduce our workforce by 17 talented team members,” the company announced on its social media platforms. “We did not make this decision lightly. Ultimately, this step was necessary to better align our current business needs and the studio’s future success.”
ALSO READ: Cristiano Ronaldo Confirmed As Playable Character In Fatal Fury: City Of The Wolves
“It is not a reflection of the dedication or ability of those affected. We recognize how painful this outcome is for those impacted and we are supporting them with transition packages and opportunity outreach. Crystal Dynamics remains committed to pushing the boundaries of making great games.”
The company mentioned at the end of the message that the layoff would not impact the development plans of their current project. In December 2022, it was announced that Amazon would be publishing the next Tomb Raider game.
Crystal Dynamics suffered layoffs in 2023 during the restructuring program launched by its parent company, Embracer Group, earlier that year. Several studios were shuttered, and projects were canceled.
Impacted Crystal Dynamics employees share their thoughts
Tomb Raider Evolution
Everyone handles layoffs differently. While some prefer to process the grief in silence others find solace in sharing their pain. Some of those impacted by the latest round of layoffs at Crystal Dynamics have posted about it on LinkedIn.
ALSO READ: 21 Game Studios That Shut Down In 2024
“Well, it happened again. I am one of seventeen individuals who were just laid off from Crystal Dynamics,” wrote technical designer Naomi Thomas. “This one really hurts, as the project I was on was something I was looking forward to playing one day. Still am. But It’s back to the job hunt for me. I’m looking for Narrative, Tech Narrative, and Technical Designer roles.”
Kevin Allingham who has been working as a project manager since 2023 was also affected by the layoff and he wrote, “Unfortunately, today was my last day at Crystal Dynamics, along with 16 other incredibly talented individuals.”
“For the second time in 2 years, along with just getting back from paternity leave not even a month ago, I have been laid off in video games. There is a lot I can say about this industry and this situation that comes from a place of anger, pain, fear, and sadness, but I must move forward with my head held high.”
A few others also posted about being laid off including senior game designer Mark Vernon and studio administrator Charlene Schmidt. The former employees are using the opportunity to seek the help of their connections to land new roles.
It is believed that a live-action Tomb Raider is in the works alongside the game. The lead role will reportedly be played by Sophie Turner who played Sansa Stark in the Game of Thrones.
