2XKO and Marvel Snap co-dev Demiurge Studios is laying off staff

Embracer-owned developer Demiurge Studios, which has provided services for Riot Games’ 2XKO and Blizzard’s Hearthstone, is reportedly laying off staff.

Via LinkedIn, six developers have posted about being reportedly affected by “recent layoffs” at the studio. The employees have roles across multiple departments, including quality assurance, production, and UX/UI design.

“Sadly I have joined the ranks of Job Hunters,” wrote UX/UI artist I Cassidy W. “Got the news today that my position at Demiurge has been eliminated. I have only kind words for the entire team over there, and I am so grateful to have worked with such kind, amazing people, who clearly care very much for their employees.”

UX/UI artist II Monica Huang and producer II Melissa Van Otten reposted some of these notices, including one from the UX/UI director, John Stvan, at the same time echoing that the reported layoffs took place recently.

Demiurge had been hiring new staff as recently as last week

According to executive producer Justin Webb, Demiurge recently started working on an “AAA action game based on a beloved IP,” with the studio recruiting lead and senior level designers up until a month ago. Based on LinkedIn posts, at least four people joined the studio in the time since, with two hires being as recent as last week.

Related:Sony CFO tells investors Bungie’s independence is ‘getting lighter’

Demiurge’s extensive portfolio includes notable games like Mass Effect, Marvel Snap, Teamfight Tactics, and more. In 2021, Embracer subsidiary Saber Interactive acquired the studio, alongside developers Fractured Byte and Smartphone Labs. Three years later, Embracer divested the core Saber Interactive assets while retaining a handful of studios and companies, including Demiurge.

Game Developer has contacted Demiurge Studios for clarification on the matter.