Embracer Group’s brutal company-wide cutbacks are continuing, and Free Radical Design is the latest studio to suffer the chopping block. Reports indicated last month that Embracer was considering shuttering the TimeSplitters studio just two years after its re-establishment, while later in November, it emerged that Free Radical was facing closure before Christmas.
Now, it seems that has officially happened, as indicated by the official Free Radical Design website, where no information, media, or links are available, with the main (and only) page plainly stating, “404 company not found”.
Meanwhile, developers who were employed at the studio have also confirmed its closure on social media. Senior artist Mark Normington, senior tech artist Adam Kiraly, and programmer Martynas Antipenkovas were among several former employees to confirm on Twitter that Free Radical Design had been shut down.
The studio’s closure comes amidst an internal restructuring program initiated by Embracer Group earlier in the year. The program has entailed multiple project cancellations, studio closers, and layoffs, and as of last month, had resulted in around 900 people losing their jobs.
Saints Row developer Volition was shut down earlier this year, while the likes of Chorus developer Fishlabs, Insurgency: Sandstorm developer New World Interactive, and Tomb Raider developer Crystal Dynamics have also been hit with layoffs. Reportedly, Embracer Group is also considering selling off Borderlands developer Gearbox Entertainment.
https://twitter.com/KeighleyKicker/status/1734204963784429878
The last day at FRD was very different from what I imagined. I don't think it sunk in properly just yet, but handed my keys in and left the building the last time. It's Time to Split pic.twitter.com/n1UGELsoED
— Adam Kiraly (@94Kiraly) December 11, 2023
Took the picture a bit late. Many good experiences. Many good people. I bid adeu and am excited for the new chapter that's waiting me after the new year! I wish everyone the best of luck in their future endeavours!! pic.twitter.com/yUti9K5gZx
— Martynas Antipenkovas (@MartynasAnE) December 11, 2023
