A spokesperson for Homeworld 3 developer Blackbird Interactive confirmed to Game Developer that there have been an unspecified number of layoffs at the studio. The cuts were part of the studio’s “reorganization plan” and were caused by “economic pressures that are beyond our control,” the spokesperson said.
The affected workers were assigned to projects that were delayed by development partners. Blackbird experienced similar layoffs in August 2023 after unannounced projects were cancelled.
“We evaluated several ways to avoid this, but unfortunately other options were not viable,” a company spokesperson said.
“Unfortunately, I was among the victims,” wrote former Blackbird chief producer Jacob Van Rooijen. “Despite the current situation, I appreciate all the experiences I’ve had and the wonderful people I’ve met and gotten to know at Blackbird Interactive. I’ve been overwhelmed by everyone’s support today and I wish everyone affected the best in getting back on their feet.” “.
Former Blackbird junior programmer Dylan Freddy confirmed the news. “Today the layoffs finally hit me,” he wrote. “My time at Blackbird Interactive has been incredible and I’ve learned a lot from the different games I’ve worked on. I can’t wait to see what’s next for me.”
Alexander Weatherston, who spent more than four years at Blackbird and worked as game director on one of the upcoming projects, was also fired. “After four wonderful years at Blackbird Interactive, I was saddened by the latest round of layoffs,” he wrote. “I have grown and learned a lot over the years and am looking forward to applying that to my next role.”