Although the video games industry is brandished as a market that has overtaken film, music, and other conventional entertainment mediums, it as a whole is going through a staffing purge on multiple fronts. From the likes of Xbox, PlayStation, and even Electronic Arts, publishers & major developers are laying off en masse across all means.
One of the most eye-opening was over at Take-Two Interactive. It was reported that a total of 5 percent of its staffing would be laid off. In a later development, another report indicated game studios Roll7 as well as Intercept Games would be disbanded. The announcement exceeded expectations as projects connected to both teams were substantial success for the publisher.
Now in a new report from IGN, it is understood following speaking with sources that Take-Two Interactive has a greater scheme in place to fully disband Private Division. At least, it appears to be shaping that way for complete closure or selloff of indie firm to some extent. The outlet previously spoke to CEO Strauss Zelnick who stated the parent company did not give the motion to shutter both developers.
“The people at Private Division were amazing, talented, passionate individuals who loved what they did and also really cared about each other as a team and as people,” one source stated. While although Take-Two Interactive is negotiating with a potential seller, sources told IGN that the hand Private Division was given only set up for disappointment with games instructed to ship undercooked and sales metrics expected were over asking.
“We loved our projects, we worked hard, and we fostered a great environment internally. I would love to work with any of them again. The pain point was always Take-Two and associated leadership forcing our hand. The whole layoff situation proved what we already felt. Take-Two could not care less about its employees.”
Are you surprised by this new development regarding Private Division?
Source: IGN