Heart Machine, the studio renowned for its critically acclaimed title Hyper Light Drifter, finds itself navigating turbulent waters following the mixed reception of its latest project, Hyper Light Breaker. Launched in early access in January, the game faced a lackluster response on Steam, which unfortunately led to layoffs within the company and an abrupt halt in the game’s development.
Challenges Ahead
As if the initial setbacks weren’t enough, Heart Machine recently initiated a second round of layoffs, this time impacting the team behind the upcoming side-scrolling action/adventure game, Possessor(s). This decision comes alarmingly close to the game’s scheduled launch, set for November 11, raising concerns among fans and industry observers alike.
In a Steam discussion thread, a user expressed frustration over the challenges of supporting developers when their financial viability is in question. In response, Tyler Hutchinson, the narrative director for Possessor(s), took to the platform to clarify misconceptions about the game’s development. He firmly stated that the creative efforts were solely the result of the dedicated team, dismissing any claims of external consulting involvement.
Hutchinson, who is also facing layoff, passionately urged fans to support Possessor(s) despite the studio’s current difficulties. “As a developer who is slated for layoff—PLEASE BUY THIS GAME,” he implored, emphasizing the immense dedication poured into the project over the past three years. He likened video games to modern-day cathedrals, representing the culmination of countless hours of hard work and creativity.
Looking Forward
In his message, Hutchinson acknowledged the positive relationship with their publisher, Devolver, asserting that they had been instrumental in supporting the development team and were not to blame for Heart Machine’s challenges. He highlighted that a successful launch of Possessor(s) could provide crucial support for developers, even those who may no longer be part of Heart Machine. “Potential employers and publishers will take notice if this game performs well,” he noted, hinting at the broader implications for the team’s future opportunities.
While the game has yet to be reviewed ahead of its release, early impressions have been promising. Ted Litchfield, who attended a hands-off demo in April, remarked on the immersive quality of the game’s environments, noting that they felt tangible and engaging, setting a hopeful tone for its upcoming debut.
As players debate whether to purchase Possessor(s) after Heart Machine lays off staff a week before launch, its creators and publisher respond: ‘As a developer who is slated for lay off—please buy this game!’
Heart Machine, the studio renowned for its critically acclaimed title Hyper Light Drifter, finds itself navigating turbulent waters following the mixed reception of its latest project, Hyper Light Breaker. Launched in early access in January, the game faced a lackluster response on Steam, which unfortunately led to layoffs within the company and an abrupt halt in the game’s development.
Challenges Ahead
As if the initial setbacks weren’t enough, Heart Machine recently initiated a second round of layoffs, this time impacting the team behind the upcoming side-scrolling action/adventure game, Possessor(s). This decision comes alarmingly close to the game’s scheduled launch, set for November 11, raising concerns among fans and industry observers alike.
In a Steam discussion thread, a user expressed frustration over the challenges of supporting developers when their financial viability is in question. In response, Tyler Hutchinson, the narrative director for Possessor(s), took to the platform to clarify misconceptions about the game’s development. He firmly stated that the creative efforts were solely the result of the dedicated team, dismissing any claims of external consulting involvement.
Hutchinson, who is also facing layoff, passionately urged fans to support Possessor(s) despite the studio’s current difficulties. “As a developer who is slated for layoff—PLEASE BUY THIS GAME,” he implored, emphasizing the immense dedication poured into the project over the past three years. He likened video games to modern-day cathedrals, representing the culmination of countless hours of hard work and creativity.
Looking Forward
In his message, Hutchinson acknowledged the positive relationship with their publisher, Devolver, asserting that they had been instrumental in supporting the development team and were not to blame for Heart Machine’s challenges. He highlighted that a successful launch of Possessor(s) could provide crucial support for developers, even those who may no longer be part of Heart Machine. “Potential employers and publishers will take notice if this game performs well,” he noted, hinting at the broader implications for the team’s future opportunities.
While the game has yet to be reviewed ahead of its release, early impressions have been promising. Ted Litchfield, who attended a hands-off demo in April, remarked on the immersive quality of the game’s environments, noting that they felt tangible and engaging, setting a hopeful tone for its upcoming debut.