NaturalMotion, the mobile game developer behind titles such as Backbreaker, CSR Racing, and Star Wars: Hunters, is facing layoffs. According to a new report from GamesIndustry.biz, the layoffs have already begun.
Per the report the Zynga-owned studio has already shut down its studio in Birmingham, which was focused on racing titles. The company has two other studios in London and Brighton.
When reached out by GIBiz for a statement, Zynga didn’t confirm the studio was shut or that layoffs at NaturalMotion have already started. However, it was said that “a number of roles” could be impacted by a review of the company in both the United States and UK.
“An important part of connecting the world through games is being committed to operating efficiently,” the studio said in its statement. “As part of this effort, we have made the difficult decision to review our UK and US operations, which may impact a number of roles in the US and UK. We believe these changes will help to ensure that the studio is sustainable for the long term and aligned with our future development needs.
“Importantly, we do not anticipate any disruptions in service to our players during this transition, and we will work closely with affected employees to ensure they are treated with the utmost consideration, respect, and care.”
Zynga is owned by Take-Two Interactive, which itself has held a number of layoffs in 2024. This year alone has seen 13,000 confirmed jobs lost due to layoffs in the games industry. That total, however, is likely higher due to the number of layoffs with unknown numbers.
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