2023 has been a year of contrasts for the gaming industry. On one hand, gamers have been treated to a plethora of captivating titles, pushing the boundaries of storytelling, graphics, and gameplay mechanics. On the other hand, the very creators behind these masterpieces have faced a tumultuous time, with layoffs becoming an all-too-common headline.
Team17, the renowned publisher behind classics like Worms, Overcooked, and Killer Frequency, is the latest to join the list of companies undergoing significant restructuring. The company’s recent announcement of a major restructuring has sent shockwaves through the gaming community.
According to Eurogamer, restructuring is expected to result in significant job losses, particularly within the company’s Quality Assurance (QA) department. An estimated 50 roles are at risk, with the majority being junior QA analyst positions. This move comes as the company plans to outsource its QA work.
The departure of Team17’s CEO, Michael Pattison, further compounds the situation. Pattison, who had been with the company for two years, amicably parted ways, as confirmed by Team17. His exit follows the departure of Debbie Bestwick, the CEO of Team17 Group, who is also planning to step down in 2024.
These changes at Team17 are not isolated incidents. The gaming industry has witnessed a series of layoffs in 2023. Epic Games announced a layoff of 16% of its staff, which translates to around 870 employees.
Microsoft, too, confirmed plans to lay off approximately 10,000 employees, impacting divisions like Xbox, Bethesda, and The Coalition. Other notable names facing layoffs include CD Projekt Red, Unity, Riot Games, Blizzard, and Bioware.
The irony in all this is that the very teams that crafted the games we cherish are now facing an uncertain future. This has raised pressing questions about the industry’s direction. If the trend of layoffs continues, what will the short-term future of gaming look like? With fewer hands on deck, will the dreaded crunch culture intensify as developers grapple with the pressures of meeting deadlines and delivering quality?
The reaction to Team17’s restructuring has been a mix of concern and disappointment. It has faced criticism in the past for its working conditions and pay disparities. While Team17 promised positive changes, including pay reviews, the recent layoffs have reignited concerns.
In the big picture of gaming, this year stands out as a year of paradoxes. As players, we’ve been spoilt for choice with groundbreaking titles. Yet, the creators behind these games don’t seem like they’re being rewarded for their efforts.
The industry’s current trajectory underscores the need for sustainable practices that prioritize the well-being of its workforce. After all, the magic of gaming would not exist without these very individuals.
