Hi-Rez Studios has announced a strategic shift in its game development approach, putting an end to major updates for its popular titles Smite, Paladins, and Rogue Company. The decision comes alongside significant layoffs, affecting approximately 70 employees across various departments. This move suggests a reallocation of resources towards new projects, particularly the anticipated Smite 2. Players of Paladins can expect their servers to remain active despite the halt in further content enhancements. Industry observers note that such changes underscore the volatile nature of the gaming market and the continuous need for companies to adapt to shifting demands.
Previously, in October last year, Hi-Rez made comparable adjustments by laying off employees and discontinuing support for two games, reinforcing their focus on developing Smite 2. Although these actions aimed to secure long-term viability, the recurrence of similar decisions indicates ongoing struggles in stabilizing the company’s portfolio. Earlier, the lack of significant updates to Paladins mirrored current developments, highlighting a persistent trend of scaling back support for older titles in favor of new initiatives.
Why Did Hi-Rez Stop Major Updates?
Hi-Rez cited the need to prioritize resources for Smite 2 as the primary reason for ceasing major updates on their existing games. According to an official message from an admin named Hinduman, “Smite 1, Paladins and Rogue Company servers will remain available for the foreseeable future, but no further major updates are currently planned for these games.”
How Will the Layoffs Impact the Company?
The layoffs, totaling around 70 employees, are part of Hi-Rez’s effort to streamline operations and focus on their key projects. Stewart Chisam, the studio’s president, stated, “We know this is an exceptionally difficult time to find work in the industry, which makes it even more devastating to have let go of so many loyal and talented developers.”
What Lies Ahead for Smite 2?
Smite 2 is set to become the cornerstone of Hi-Rez’s revitalized strategy. The company aims to deliver significant updates and improvements to this title, positioning it as the flagship game within their portfolio. Continued investment in Smite 2 reflects Hi-Rez’s commitment to maintaining a strong presence in the competitive MOBA market.
The ongoing shift at Hi-Rez Studios mirrors broader industry trends where companies frequently reassess their game portfolios to stay competitive. Maintaining servers for older games without new updates allows the company to retain its player base while redirecting efforts towards future projects. This approach may help stabilize the company’s financial standing, though it also raises concerns about the long-term support and community engagement for legacy titles.
With the gaming landscape continuously evolving, Hi-Rez’s decision to halt updates and reduce its workforce reflects a tactical response to market pressures. Players affected by these changes may seek alternative games, while those invested in Smite 2 look forward to enhanced experiences. The company’s focus on streamlining operations could lead to more focused and potentially innovative developments in their future offerings.
