Splitgate 2 launched on June 6, and exactly two weeks after, 1047 Games has announced that it had parted ways with a small number of developers who contributed to the project. While the number of employees impacted by the decision was not specified, GameBaba Universe estimates they are less than 10 based on social media posts.
“Today we parted ways with a small group of valued 1047 Games team members, the developer announced on LinkedIn. “We’re still perfecting the Splitgate 2 gameplay experience in response to community feedback, and we are redirecting resources to build the best game for our players.”
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The studio thanked the developers they let go for their contribution to the project. To fans of Splitgate 2, the studio said, “we’re continuing to work hard to deliver more things you’ll love,” adding that they “are committed to building this game for the long haul”.
The message published by 1047 Games also mentioned that the studio’s “co-founders Ian Proulx and Nicholas Bagamian have opted not to take salaries”. This drew lots of attention, especially because it wasn’t mentioned how long they would be forfeiting their salaries, and if their salaries weren’t enough to keep the jobs of those laid off.
Stats shared by the developer show that Splitgate 2 has attracted over 2.4 million players across Steam and PS5 since its launch. According to data from SteamDB, Splitgate 2 achieved a peak concurrent player count of 25,785 twenty-four hours after launch. At the time of writing, fewer than 3,500 people were playing the game.
Ex-1047 Games employees need your help
GameBaba Universe spotted at least six posts from former employees of 1047 Games who worked on Splitgate 2. The devs were either showcasing the work they did on Splitgate 2 or seeking the help of their connections to land new roles.
“I am one of many who got caught in the wave of layoffs today,” wrote level designer Blaze Lightcap. “I’m not in a rush to find work, but open to consulting in the meantime. If I can add value to your game, let’s chat!”
Yizhe Wu, who spent one year with 1047 Games, called his time there “an incredible experience”. Wu praised the working environment fostered in the studio, saying it was “one filled with constructive feedback, encouragement, and support that helped me ease into the industry without unnecessary stress”.
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“I have always took pride to the work I have done there. I wish the journey could have lasted longer, but life moves forward. I remain optimistic and excited for what’s next.”
Lead Writer, Nate Dern, also posted that his role was one of those affected by the layoffs at 1047 Games. While in the studio, Dern oversaw multiple writing roles, including multiple cinematic trailers and blog posts.
Artist Najim Filali Saksak did not mention that he was laid off, but referred to the studio in the past tense, suggesting that something must have happened to his role. Associate producer Juliana Ozment and quality assurance specialist Eli Piersel also confirmed they were laid off.
It is always sad to hear or write about layoffs. However, are you surprised that 1047 Games has laid off staff just weeks after the release of their game? Share your thoughts in the comment box below.
