The future of Lost Ark is currently shrouded in uncertainty, following the announcement of departures from the Amazon Games team, the studio responsible for introducing Smilegate’s Korean-first MMO to a global audience. In light of these changes, the remaining team members have issued a statement vowing to “keep working to improve the game and move Lost Ark forward with every update.” However, the choice of words may not sufficiently alleviate the immediate concerns of the player community.
Key Departures and Community Reactions
Both Roxanne Sabo, the community manager, and producer ‘Hardcore’ Henry Stelter have confirmed their exits from Amazon Games. As co-hosts of the regular developer update videos, they have been the familiar faces of Lost Ark, alongside associate franchise lead Matthew Huston, who has yet to comment on his future amidst these changes. This news follows closely on the heels of significant layoffs at Amazon Games just four months prior.
Sabo expressed her sentiments in a heartfelt message to the Lost Ark community, stating, “you will always be my proudest achievement.” In a nod to Stelter, she added, “It’s been an honor to work by your side, Hardcore Henry.” Stelter reflected on his journey with the game, describing it as “a rollercoaster with some high highs and low lows,” while expressing his passion for the project and pride in their collaborative efforts.
A statement posted on the Lost Ark global website, though uncredited, addressed the recent changes: “Some talented individuals have recently left the Lost Ark team as part of broader organizational decisions. We’re grateful for their contributions, and transitions like this are never easy for anyone involved.” The message emphasized the importance of community feedback, citing a recent survey that garnered detailed insights from over 11,000 players. “We hear your feedback, both positive and constructive, in and out of game, and it will shape what comes next,” it concluded, affirming a commitment to earn trust through actions rather than mere words.
Looking Ahead
This news arrives shortly after the Ends of the Abyss update, which marked the culmination of a multi-year battle against Kazeros. With the latest roadmap outlining plans only through April, questions about the future trajectory of Lost Ark, particularly on a global scale, are inevitable. It is important to note that this situation differs from Amazon’s recently discontinued MMO, New World, which was developed in-house.
Smilegate remains the primary developer of Lost Ark, although Amazon Games has facilitated certain global-specific features, such as the Paradise mode introduced in 2025. Should Amazon Games decide to withdraw from the project entirely, it is conceivable that another publisher—or even Smilegate itself—could take the reins to ensure the game continues to reach a worldwide audience.
As the situation unfolds, the gaming community will be watching closely to see if Amazon’s forthcoming actions provide the necessary reassurance regarding the future of Lost Ark. I have reached out to the developer for further comments and will provide updates as they become available.
As key Lost Ark devs leave, Amazon Games says “trust is earned through actions, not words”
The future of Lost Ark is currently shrouded in uncertainty, following the announcement of departures from the Amazon Games team, the studio responsible for introducing Smilegate’s Korean-first MMO to a global audience. In light of these changes, the remaining team members have issued a statement vowing to “keep working to improve the game and move Lost Ark forward with every update.” However, the choice of words may not sufficiently alleviate the immediate concerns of the player community.
Key Departures and Community Reactions
Both Roxanne Sabo, the community manager, and producer ‘Hardcore’ Henry Stelter have confirmed their exits from Amazon Games. As co-hosts of the regular developer update videos, they have been the familiar faces of Lost Ark, alongside associate franchise lead Matthew Huston, who has yet to comment on his future amidst these changes. This news follows closely on the heels of significant layoffs at Amazon Games just four months prior.
Sabo expressed her sentiments in a heartfelt message to the Lost Ark community, stating, “you will always be my proudest achievement.” In a nod to Stelter, she added, “It’s been an honor to work by your side, Hardcore Henry.” Stelter reflected on his journey with the game, describing it as “a rollercoaster with some high highs and low lows,” while expressing his passion for the project and pride in their collaborative efforts.
A statement posted on the Lost Ark global website, though uncredited, addressed the recent changes: “Some talented individuals have recently left the Lost Ark team as part of broader organizational decisions. We’re grateful for their contributions, and transitions like this are never easy for anyone involved.” The message emphasized the importance of community feedback, citing a recent survey that garnered detailed insights from over 11,000 players. “We hear your feedback, both positive and constructive, in and out of game, and it will shape what comes next,” it concluded, affirming a commitment to earn trust through actions rather than mere words.
Looking Ahead
This news arrives shortly after the Ends of the Abyss update, which marked the culmination of a multi-year battle against Kazeros. With the latest roadmap outlining plans only through April, questions about the future trajectory of Lost Ark, particularly on a global scale, are inevitable. It is important to note that this situation differs from Amazon’s recently discontinued MMO, New World, which was developed in-house.
Smilegate remains the primary developer of Lost Ark, although Amazon Games has facilitated certain global-specific features, such as the Paradise mode introduced in 2025. Should Amazon Games decide to withdraw from the project entirely, it is conceivable that another publisher—or even Smilegate itself—could take the reins to ensure the game continues to reach a worldwide audience.
As the situation unfolds, the gaming community will be watching closely to see if Amazon’s forthcoming actions provide the necessary reassurance regarding the future of Lost Ark. I have reached out to the developer for further comments and will provide updates as they become available.