In a significant restructuring move, Warner Bros has announced the closure of three of its development studios: Monolith Productions, Player First Games, and its mobile-focused San Diego studio. This decision, first reported by Bloomberg’s Jason Schreier, marks a pivotal shift in the company’s strategy within the gaming sector.
Studio Closures and Impact
Monolith Productions, a well-respected name in the gaming industry, has been celebrated for its contributions to titles such as Fear and Condemned. More recently, the studio gained acclaim for its work on Shadow of Mordor and Shadow of War. However, the anticipated Wonder Woman game, which was announced back in 2021, will not see the light of day as part of this strategic realignment.
As a direct consequence of these closures, Warner Bros has filed a WARN notice indicating that 131 employees based in Kirkland, Washington, where Monolith is located, will be laid off. This move underscores the impact of the studio’s shuttering on the local workforce.
Player First Games, known for its development of the ambitious yet troubled Multiversus, also faces the end of its journey. The decision to close these studios was confirmed by a representative from Warner Bros, who stated, “We have had to make some very difficult decisions to structure our development studios and investments around building the best games possible with our key franchises – Harry Potter, Mortal Kombat, DC, and Game of Thrones.”
The representative emphasized that the closures are not a reflection of the talent within these teams but rather a strategic change in direction. “This is another tough decision, as we recognize Monolith’s storied history of delivering epic fan experiences through amazing games,” they added.
Warner Bros expressed deep appreciation for the dedication and passion of the employees from the three studios, thanking them for their contributions. The company remains optimistic about its future, focusing on producing high-quality games and aiming for profitability and growth in 2025 and beyond.
