Auroch Digital begins redundancy consultation affecting about a quarter of roles

Auroch Digital has started a redundancy consultation process that affects around a quarter of roles at the studio. The company announced it in a statement on LinkedIn, as reported by GamesIndustry.biz. The outlet describes the move as layoffs, while the studio's own wording is that a consultation has begun, so final outcomes may differ from the initial figure.

In the statement, Auroch pointed to its recent releases, Warhammer 40,000: Boltgun 2 and Starship Troopers: Ultimate Bug War!, and said they were well received by players. It said the market conditions that have challenged other developers have now affected the studio too. It described the decision as a restructuring to work through what it called a turbulent and uncertain time for the industry.

The studio addressed its staff directly, saying it is proud of their work and sorry for the position the company is in. It said its priority is supporting people through the consultation with care and respect, and that it will work to lessen the impact. It also asked partners and friends in the industry to consider finding a place for its staff.

According to the studio's LinkedIn page, Auroch employs between 51 and 200 people, so the exact number affected is not clear from the sources. GamesIndustry.biz notes the studio was acquired by Sumo Group for $8.3m in 2021.

The report places the news alongside other recent cuts. Last week German developer Fishlabs announced workforce reductions affecting its development and support teams. GamesIndustry.biz also reports that EA has confirmed BioWare, developer of Mass Effect and Dragon Age, is closing after more than 30 years. Studios hiring should note Auroch's public call for its staff.