Canadian gaming company Blackbird Interactive is scaling down its workforce, as revealed by several employees. Known for developing Hardspace: Shipbreaker, the real-time strategy game Homeworld 3, and co-developing Minecraft Legends with Mojang Studios, Blackbird currently employs about 220 personnel as per records of December 2023.
One affected employee, Jacob Van Rooyen, who functioned as a lead producer, disclosed the layoffs, noting that he was among the affected. He remains optimistic, appreciating the experiences and connections made at Blackbird. Other impacted staff include Dylan Freddi, an associate programmer, and Victoria Wojcik, a lead and senior game designer.
The reasons behind these layoffs are not yet known, however, Blackbird has communicated that these actions are part of a reorganization effort driven by the suspension of new projects by some partners. The company states this was necessary due to economic constraints, and other avenues to avoid layoffs were not possible.
In a bid to support the affected employees, the company is offering extended benefits and severance to ease the transition. While the gaming industry often sees such layoffs, it's clear that it never becomes easy, especially when it affects close-knit teams.
Interestingly, the news comes after the announcement of the delayed release of Homeworld 3. Initially set for March 8, the game release is now scheduled for May 13, with advanced access starting from May 10. "Feedback from players" is cited as the reason behind the push.