Following layoffs in November 2024, Hyper Light Drifter developer Heart Machine has announced more due to “broader forces beyond our control.” Hyper Light Breaker, which is currently in early access, will see its production wrapped up as a result.
In a statement to Game Developer, a studio spokesperson said, “As we wrap up our work on Hyper Light Breaker, we’ve had to make the difficult decision to part ways with a number of talented team members. This was not our ideal path, but rather the only one available given the circumstances.
“While this path will include a conclusion on the project, it reflects broader forces beyond our control, including shifts in funding, corporate consolidation and the uncertain environment many small studios like us are navigating today.”
The developer will continue working on titles as a “smaller core team” while supporting those affected. The number of layoffs has not been specified.
Released into Steam Early Access this past January, Hyper Light Breaker is a fully 3D co-op rogue-like – check out our thoughts on the launch version. It currently sits at a “Mixed” rating with 64 percent of the 3,133 user reviews giving it a thumbs-up, despite multiple updates and content drops over the past several months.
Heart Machine hasn’t specified when development will wrap or the extent of the game’s final update, so stay tuned for more details. The studio’s next title, Possessor(s), launches on November 11th for PS5 and PC. It’s a side-scrolling action title where players control Luca, possessed by a demon Rhem, as the duo seeks to survive in Sanzu City. Head here for more details.
