Game Industry Layoffs in 2024 Surpass Last Year's Total in Less Than Half a Year

TapTechNews on May 25th reports that TheObsidian tracking data reveals that the number of layoffs in the game industry in 2024 has reached 10,100, while the total number of layoffs in the whole year of 2023 was 10,500 , indicating that in less than half a year this year, the number of layoffs in the game industry has already exceeded that of last year.

TapTechNews, based on media reports, briefly introduces the situation of layoffs in major game companies this year. The largest round of layoffs in 2024 occurred in January, when Microsoft announced adjustments to Activision Blizzard and the Xbox division, laying off 1,900 people.

The game engine manufacturer Unity also laid off approximately 1,900 people in early 2024, accounting for 25% of its total employees.

The publisher and Rockstar's parent company, Take-Two Interactive, stated in April this year that as part of a cost-cutting plan, the company will lay off 5%, equivalent to approximately 600 employees.

EA has also carried out significant layoffs, laying off 5% in February, about 670 people, while eliminating several games.

Adding the number of layoffs this year to that of 2023 shows that in the past 18 months, more than 20,000 people in the game industry have lost their jobs, and with some game companies that have not disclosed the numbers, the actual number of unemployed will be even greater.