Ballistic Moon, the studio behind the Until Dawn remake, has recently faced a significant setback, with reports indicating that the studio has effectively closed its doors. Last year, the UK-based studio announced a round of redundancies, expressing the need to downsize to ensure its future. However, a recent report by Insider Gaming revealed that Ballistic Moon underwent a second wave of job cuts towards the end of the year, resulting in the departure of nearly all of its developers.
According to sources cited by Insider Gaming, around 40 employees were let go in October, with the remaining staff tasked with providing support for the Until Dawn remake. Unfortunately, these developers, numbering around 20, were also let go in December. This left only the studio’s founders and a few remaining employees, marking the end of Ballistic’s PR, marketing, and development teams.
The job losses at Ballistic Moon were reportedly a result of unsuccessful attempts by the studio’s founders to pitch new projects, secure funding, and sustain progress. Despite discussions with Sony regarding funding for additional Until Dawn updates or even a new game, these efforts did not come to fruition. The absence of continued support for the Until Dawn remake has left players encountering bugs without a team to address them.
The closure of Ballistic Moon adds to the growing list of studio closures and job cuts within the games industry. In February alone, notable studios such as Monolith Productions, Player First Games, and Warner Bros. Games San Diego ceased operations. Additionally, layoffs were confirmed at various other studios, including Marvel Rivals, The Callisto Protocol developer Striking Distance, and Bossa Games, the developer behind Surgeon Simulator. This week has also seen more job losses at PlayStation, following the cancellation of several live-service games, and Secret Mode, the publisher of Still Wakes the Deep, confirmed a “small number” of layoffs after being acquired by an investment firm.
Impact on the Gaming Industry
The closure of Ballistic Moon and the subsequent loss of talent not only affect the individuals directly involved but also have wider implications for the gaming industry. With the industry experiencing a wave of job cuts and studio closures, the creative landscape is shifting, leading to uncertainty for developers and gamers alike. The closure of studios like Ballistic Moon means fewer opportunities for innovative storytelling and gameplay experiences that resonate with audiences.
As the gaming industry continues to evolve, maintaining a balance between creativity and financial stability remains a challenge. The closure of studios like Ballistic Moon serves as a reminder of the volatile nature of the industry and the importance of adaptability and resilience in the face of adversity.
Looking Ahead
While the closure of Ballistic Moon is undoubtedly a loss for the gaming community, it also presents an opportunity for reflection and growth. As developers, publishers, and players navigate the changing landscape of the industry, there is an opportunity to reevaluate priorities, foster collaboration, and support initiatives that promote sustainability and creativity. By learning from the experiences of studios like Ballistic Moon, the gaming industry can work towards a more stable and inclusive future for all involved.
The closure of Ballistic Moon underscores the challenges faced by developers in a competitive and rapidly evolving industry. As studios come and go, the resilience and adaptability of developers and players alike will be crucial in shaping the future of gaming. Let this serve as a reminder of the human stories behind the games we love and the importance of supporting those who bring our favorite worlds to life.
