In some disheartening news, Deck Nine Games, best known for the Life is Strange series, recently announced an additional round of layoffs from their studio. CEO Mark Lyons stated this "extremely difficult decision" was made as Deck Nine Games faces a changing environment in the gaming industry.
This comes after earlier reports in February 2024, confirming that the studio would lay off 20% of its staff. In April 2024, IGN reported on a toxic workplace culture at Deck Nine Games, based on employee testimonials.
CEO Lyons, in their statement, asked for continued support and understanding from their community during this time of transition at the studio. Deck Nine's most recent release was Life is Strange: Double Exposure, which has been nominated Best Performance and Games for Impact at The Game Awards 2024.
Our reviewer gave Life Is Strange: Double Exposure an 8 saying "While their ending payoffs aren't quite as good as Don't Nod I've still enjoyed how they've handled the franchise overall". Whether this round of layoffs tells us anything about the success of the game or not remains to be seen.
Regardless it is another blow in the gaming industry that has seen huge numbers of layoffs and impacts within the industry. We hope those affected land on their feet as quickly as possible.
