Heart Machine, the US-based developer known for games such as Hyper Light Drifter, Hyper Light Breaker, and Possessor(s), has laid off "nearly everyone" on its staff. The decision comes after an unnamed publisher withdrew funding for a new, unannounced game the studio was developing.
Studio founder Alx Preston confirmed the extensive layoffs in a LinkedIn post, stating that the publisher's decision to cease funding left the studio without essential income. "Without this key income for the studio, any other immediate prospects or other funds, nearly everyone at the studio had to be laid off. It's devastating," Preston wrote. He added that the studio intends to support departing employees with placement assistance.
Preston expressed uncertainty about the studio's future, noting, "Navigating an increasingly challenging industry has been extremely difficult, and I’m not sure yet what’s next for Heart Machine to survive." He indicated that the studio would continue to seek a path forward.
This situation impacts Heart Machine's fifth planned title, following their 2016 debut Drifter and 2021's Solar Ash. The studio's recent projects have faced challenges; Hyper Light Breaker, which launched into early access, saw development cease within a year, leading to a previous round of layoffs. Its subsequent release, Possessor(s), received mixed reviews shortly before these most recent cuts.
The layoffs highlight a difficult period for the game industry, marked by significant job reductions across studios of all sizes. Preston's statement acknowledged the harsh reality that the studio's continued operation is now in question without its workforce.