Deck Nine, the studio behind the acclaimed Life is Strange: Double Exposure, has announced via Twitter that it has made the difficult decision to lay off an undisclosed number of employees. This news follows a significant reduction in workforce earlier this year, when the studio let go of 20% of its staff back in February, citing “worsening market conditions.” The challenges have continued, as the studio also faced layoffs in May 2023, impacting around 30 employees.
Reflections on the Current Landscape
In a heartfelt message attributed to CEO Mark Lyons, the studio expressed its sorrow over the departures, acknowledging the hard work and dedication of those affected. “This was an extremely difficult decision and reflects the challenging times many companies in our industry are currently facing,” the statement read. The sentiment underscores the broader struggles within the gaming industry, where many studios are grappling with economic pressures.
Deck Nine, which took over the Life is Strange franchise from Don’t Nod, has been responsible for several key titles, including the prequel Before the Storm, the remastered collection released in 2022, and the sequels True Colors and Double Exposure. However, the recent layoffs suggest a potential downturn in the studio’s fortunes, particularly following the release of Double Exposure in October.
The reception of Double Exposure has been mixed, with some critics noting that while it offers an entertaining experience, it largely revisits familiar themes and narratives from its predecessors. PC Gamer’s producer Mollie Taylor remarked that the sequel feels somewhat unnecessary, pointing out its reliance on established storylines involving “dead besties, sus teachers, and secret societies.” This critique may reflect the challenges Deck Nine faces in a competitive market, where innovation is crucial for success.
As the industry continues to navigate these turbulent waters, Deck Nine’s situation serves as a poignant reminder of the complexities and uncertainties that many game developers are currently experiencing.
