In a recent announcement, Poland’s 11 Bit Studios confirmed a restructuring move that has led to an undisclosed number of layoffs. The company revealed the cancellation of Project 8, which was poised to be its inaugural console-focused game. This ambitious project, which commenced development in 2018, saw a team of 37 dedicated staff members working towards its completion.
To date, 11 Bit Studios has invested approximately PLN 48.4 million (around .8 million) into Project 8. The decision to halt the project stemmed from a comprehensive evaluation process that highlighted several challenges faced during its development, including disruptions caused by the COVID-19 pandemic.
Insights from Leadership
Przemysław Marszał, the president of the board, shared insights into the company’s decision-making process. “Our vision for Project 8, which was intended to be our first title designed specifically for console gamers, was bold and exciting. However, it was conceived under very different market conditions, when narrative-driven, story-rich games held stronger appeal,” he noted.
He elaborated on the factors influencing the cancellation: “When assessing a project, the Management Board always considers its development progress, including internal reviews and independent surveys. We also factor in market analyses and the game’s sales and marketing potential. Unfortunately, in this case, our findings revealed unresolved issues and challenges that would require further extensions of the production timeline and corresponding budget increases to address.”
As the gaming landscape continues to evolve, Marszał acknowledged that revised sales forecasts reflecting the changing market environment raised significant doubts about Project 8’s overall profitability. This decision marks a pivotal moment for 11 Bit Studios as it navigates the complexities of the gaming industry and re-evaluates its future projects.
