Update (2/15/24): A Daybreak representative confirmed to GamesIndustry a “small number ” of around 15 workers were impacted by its newest cuts. Previous reports claimed the number was higher at nearly 70 employees.
According to the rep, the reductions are part of “an overall assessment and recalibration of our business.”
Beyond Dimensional Ink, affected studios include Standing Stone’s teams for Dungeons & Dragons Online and Lord of the Rings Online, along with Daybreak’s Everquest II team.
Citing the industry’s present turmoil, the Daybreak rep said they must “periodically review and make adjustments to our workforce.”
Original story: Employees at DC Universe Online studio Dimensional Ink and publisher Daybreak Games have reportedly been impacted by layoffs. At time of writing, a precise number hasn’t been given.
So far, it’s known that members from the art, community, and narrative teams were caught up in the reductions. A source speaking to Kotaku claims the cuts mainly affected senior staff.
Community manager Theodore Stone worked at Daybreak/Sony Online Entertainment for 13 years. Art producer Andy D. and narrative designer Lynnea Glasser each had four years.
DCUO first released in 2011, and has gradually expanded to more consoles over the years. The cuts come as Dimensional Ink is bringing the game to current consoles with an update.
In addition to DCUO, Daybreak is responsible for Everquest II, Planetside 2, and Z1 Battle Royale. Those games’ respective developers appear to be unaffected.
Game Developer reached out to Daybreak for comment, and will update when a response is given.