Following Bloomberg’s report of the Embracer Group cancelling Deus Ex title, developer Eidos Montreal has confirmed layoffs. It’s letting go of 97 employees from its development teams, support services, and administration.
“The global economic context, the challenges of our industry and the comprehensive restructuring announced by Embracer have finally impacted our studio. The difficult decision has been made to let go 97 people from development teams, administration, and support services,” the developer wrote in an official statement on Twitter.
The developer is working to support “all impacted personnel through this transition. These very talented, highly experienced people are entering the employment market, and we want them to find their next projects and are helping to do so.” While prioritizing the well-being of its team, it’s also committed to “creating games that players will be able to enjoy in the nearby future.”
“To our players… it’s often not just the games but the game makers as well that we all celebrate and admire. Our commitment is always to make the best games for our amazing fans, and even with this restructuring change, we continue to fight to deliver those awesome experiences for us to share together. Thank you for your continuing support and well wishes.”
Eidos Montreal did not comment on the existence of the Deus Ex project or its cancellation, nor did it confirm working on an original franchise. The last two games in the Deus Ex franchise, Human Revolution and Mankind Divided, together sold over 12 million units.
Since the Embracer Group announced its restructuring program, several developers have been hit with layoffs, including Crystal Dynamics, Fishlabs, New World Interactive and Lost Boys Interactive. 3D Realms and Slipgate Ironworks also reportedly suffered, while studios like Free Radical Design and Volition were shut down. There were rumors of a potential sale of Gearbox Entertainment, though nothing is official yet on that front.