June 12, 2025 - 00:45

In a significant shift for the video game development landscape, Bend Studio has announced the layoff of approximately 30% of its workforce. This decision, confirmed by Sony Interactive Entertainment, affects dozens of employees at the studio located in the Old Mill District. Bend Studio has been a notable player in the gaming industry since its inception in 1993, contributing to various successful titles over the years.
The layoffs come as the studio continues its partnership with Sony, which began in 2019, focusing on the development of a live-service game. This move reflects broader trends within the gaming sector, where companies are increasingly reevaluating their staffing needs amidst changing market conditions and project scopes.
The impact of these layoffs is expected to resonate within the local community and the gaming industry at large, as Bend Studio has been a significant employer in the region. The future direction of the studio remains uncertain as it navigates these changes.
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