Bandai Namco's Canadian studio, Reflector Entertainment, has made the difficult decision to lay off an undisclosed number of staff. Launched in 2024 with its debut title, Unknown 9, on October 18th, this move has sent ripples through the gaming industry. Kotaku reporter Ethan Gach was the first to bring attention to these layoffs, and numerous LinkedIn posts seem to confirm the news. Former Reflector employees have shared that the cuts have affected individuals across various departments such as art, marketing, narrative, and quality assurance.

Impact on Employees

One former narrative and game designer at the studio expressed their disappointment, stating, "Unfortunately, I was affected by the layoffs at Reflector Entertainment. I'm currently on the hunt for a job as a Narrative Designer or Game Writer. If you come across any opportunities, please do let me know." Another former brand manager, who had worked at the company for three years, added, "Hi everyone. I was also impacted by the layoffs at Reflector Entertainment and am now seeking a new role in Marketing or Social Media/Community Management, effective immediately."

Reasons for Downsizing

It remains unclear why Reflector and Bandai Namco have decided to downsize. Unknown 9 currently holds a 'mixed' rating on Steam based on just over 100 user reviews. The gaming industry continues to face challenges, with thousands of workers losing their jobs in 2024 alone. Major companies like Sony, Microsoft, Embracer, EA, Take-Two, and more have also been affected. Game Developer has reached out to both Reflector and Bandai Namco for more information to shed light on this situation.

Industry-wide Implications

The wave of layoffs in the game industry is a significant concern. It not only affects the individuals directly laid off but also has a broader impact on the ecosystem. Studios need to carefully evaluate their strategies and resources to ensure sustainability in the face of changing market dynamics. As the gaming industry continues to evolve, it is crucial for companies to find the right balance between growth and stability.