Red Storm Entertainment is the latest game studio to suffer layoffs. A total of 19 people were laid off from the studio behind highly successful franchises in the game industry, including Tom Clancy’s Rainbow Six series and Star Trek: Bridge Crew.
Red Storm Entertainment was founded in 1996 and acquired by Ubisoft in 2000. At its peak, the studio had over 200 employees. However, the current employee count is closer to 160, according to their LinkedIn page. Ubisoft confirmed the layoffs and the reason for the decision to IGN.
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“Today, Ubisoft made the decision to eliminate 19 roles at Red Storm Entertainment,” read the statement provided to IGN. “This step is part of our ongoing, targeted restructuring and global cost-saving efforts, and reflects the needs on the studio’s projects.”
“While this was not an easy decision, it was a necessary one given our operational priorities. We remain committed to supporting those affected with comprehensive severance packages, extended health-care benefits, and career transition assistance. We deeply appreciate their hard work and the impact they’ve had on Ubisoft.”
Ubisoft PR also confirmed that this was an isolated decision that will not impact any other Ubisoft locations. Red Storm Entertainment has worked on several canceled projects, including The Division Heartland and a Splinter Cell VR game. They also assisted in the development of XDefiant, which shut down last month.
The affected employees were working on Rainbow Six Siege and internal snowdrop improvement projects. The studio’s Managing Director, Elizabeth Loverso, said in an email sent to staff that the changes, “while tough, are necessary to ensure our long-term resilience and better align our structure with our strategic goals”.
Ex-Red Storm Entertainment employees confirm the layoff
Red Storm Entertainment is based in Cary, North Carolina, and builds on “a legendary history of innovation to create the cutting-edge game experiences of tomorrow”. GameBaba Universe spotted two posts on LinkedIn made by people who have been impacted by the latest layoff.
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“Today marks my last day with Red Storm Entertainment,” wrote talent acquisition expert Michele Brooks. “I’m grateful for the journey, the camaraderie, and the brilliant, passionate people who make this studio truly one-of-a-kind. Thank you for the friendships, the collaborative energy, and the sparks that continue to shape my next steps.”
Quality control development tester Austin Bagwell also confirmed through a post that he was looking for a new role and would appreciate the support of his connections. Bagwell spent 9 years in the studio.
GameBaba Universe has included links to the profiles of everyone mentioned in this post to make it easier for anyone who can help to reach out to them.
