Although Marvel Rivals has become a phenomenon within the hero shooters, with impressive player numbers and a success that few titles can match, this has not prevented its development team in the United States from suffering a series of unexpected layoffs. NetEase, the company responsible for the game, has decided get rid of all the division based in Seattle, including its director, Thaddeus Sasser.
The announcement of the layoffs has taken the industry by surprise, as the title, released in December, has maintained a solid player base and It is among the most played on Steam and consoles. Both Sasser and others team members, like level designers Jack Burrows and Garry McGee, have confirmed their departure from the company via LinkedIn.
Unexpected layoffs in the US
NetEase has issued a statement explaining that The decision to reduce the Seattle team was made for organizational reasons, seeking to improve efficiency in the development of the game. According to the company, the American studio was part of a broader global design structure, and its departure will not affect the development of the title or its roadmap.
In its statement, NetEase wanted to reassure the community by assuring that The core team in China remains in charge of the project, lead by Weicheng Wu y Guangyun Chen. They have also indicated that they are Investing in the future of gaming, promising new updates, maps and characters to keep players interested.
A strategy to reduce costs?
Several analysts and industry members have pointed out that NetEase may be reducing its investment in North America. Over the past few months, the company has ceased its support for several Western studios, including Worlds Untold y Jar of Sparks.
John Ebenger, cinematics director at Bungie, has commented that he has heard rumors about a complete withdrawal of NetEase from North American studiosThis could be a calculated strategy to focus its investments in China, where development costs are lower.
The impact on Marvel Rivals
Despite the uncertainty caused by the layoffs, the game continues to expand. Its second season is scheduled for April., promising new heroes and content for players. However, the decision to dispense with the American team raises doubts about the future of the franchise and the direction it will take under the exclusive management of the team in China.
The video game industry continues to show its volatility, with studios and teams seeing their efforts rewarded with cuts, regardless of the success of their projects. This situation not only generates uncertainty in the sector, but also reinforces the tendency of large companies to centralize their developments where costs are lower, regardless of the consequences for those who have helped make the games a success.