Schell Games, the development studio best known for co‑creating the three‑dimensional version of the viral hit *Among Us* and for the critically acclaimed *I Expect You to Die* series, has recently confirmed that it is cutting staff positions. The news emerged after a series of LinkedIn updates from current and former employees detailed the onset of layoffs that began on the Friday before the announcement. The first public indication came from the studio’s principal engineering manager, who posted that Schell Games experienced its inaugural round of layoffs that day.
The manager clarified that they themselves were not among those let go, and added a note of empathy for their colleagues: "This isn’t a result of any individual actions. Our industry (and the broader market) is currently bleeding profusely." Further confirmation arrived from Dwayne Waite Jr., the company’s marketing director, who specifically mentioned that the reductions impacted the marketing department.
He went on to list four employees who were directly affected. In addition, the senior public relations manager at Schell Games shared a broader roster of names, encompassing members of the art, design, and visual‑effects teams, thereby painting a more complete picture of the scope of the cuts.
Compiling the information from these posts suggests that roughly fourteen staff members have been separated from the company. This figure is notable given that Schell Games’ LinkedIn profile indicates a workforce ranging from 51 to 200 individuals, placing the layoffs at a modest but still significant percentage of its total headcount. One of the affected employees, the senior public relations manager, expressed a bittersweet sentiment in a farewell message: "I won’t pretend this isn’t a disappointing way to close this chapter, especially after nearly six years with the studio. Yet I leave feeling proud of what I accomplished during my tenure and grateful for the colleagues I had the privilege to build with." The timing of these layoffs is particularly striking because Schell Games’ founder and chief executive officer, Jesse Schell, has long been an outspoken advocate against job cuts within the industry.
In a 2024 interview with *GamesIndustry.biz*, Schell articulated a philosophy that separates financial risk from the risk to employees. He explained, "At the core of our approach is the decision not to jeopardize jobs. We are willing to gamble cash when we develop a game, but we do not gamble the livelihoods of our team members. Even if an internal IP generates no revenue, we have not placed any positions at risk; we still retain a viable path forward that allows us to keep our staff employed.
In many ways, it is a matter of choice." The recent reductions appear to run counter to that stated commitment, prompting industry observers to question whether external market pressures have forced a reassessment of the studio’s financial strategy. The broader gaming sector has been experiencing a period of volatility, with many publishers and developers reporting revenue shortfalls, delayed releases, and shifting consumer spending patterns. These macro‑economic forces have led to a wave of workforce reductions across the industry, often described as a "hemorrhaging" of talent. While Schell Games has not issued an official press release addressing the layoffs, *GamesIndustry.biz* has reached out for comment.
The lack of a formal response leaves room for speculation about the internal decision‑making process. Some analysts suggest that the studio may be reallocating resources toward upcoming projects, possibly focusing on new intellectual property or expanding existing franchises such as *I Expect You to Die*. Others believe the cuts could be a preemptive measure to preserve cash flow amid uncertain market conditions. The impact on the remaining staff is also a point of concern.
Layoffs can affect morale, productivity, and the overall creative environment, especially in a collaborative field like game development where interdisciplinary teamwork is essential. Employees who stay on may face increased workloads or be required to take on responsibilities previously handled by their departed colleagues.
Conversely, the company might use this moment to streamline processes, adopt new technologies, or restructure teams to become more agile. For the broader community of developers and gamers, the situation at Schell Games serves as a reminder of the precarious nature of employment in the interactive entertainment sector. Even studios with a reputation for stable, employee‑friendly practices are not immune to the financial realities that can compel difficult personnel decisions. The episode underscores the importance of diversification for both individuals—who may consider building a portfolio of skills or freelance work—and companies, which might explore alternative revenue streams such as licensing, live‑service models, or partnerships.
In summary, Schell Games has announced its first ever round of staff reductions, affecting an estimated fourteen employees across marketing, art, design, and visual effects. The layoffs come at a time when the gaming industry is grappling with widespread financial strain, and they appear to contrast with the founder’s previously articulated stance against cutting jobs. While the company has not provided an official explanation, industry insiders are watching closely to see how Schell Games will navigate the challenges ahead and what this means for its future projects and workplace culture.