Blackbird Interactive Announces Further Staff Reductions

Blackbird Interactive, a Vancouver-based studio, has confirmed to GamesIndustry.biz that it has undergone a second round of staff layoffs within a six-month period. A representative from the studio stated, "Due to unforeseen economic pressures, we were forced to make the difficult decision to part ways with some of our colleagues." The decision is reportedly part of a broader realignment strategy, necessitated by the cancellation of several projects by the studio's partners. According to the representative, "We explored alternative solutions to avoid this outcome, but unfortunately, they were not feasible. As the affected team members are an integral part of our Blackbird family, we are committed to supporting their transition. To this end, we are providing an extended benefits package and severance pay to help alleviate the impact of this change." Earlier in the day, Game Developer reported on the layoffs, citing posts from former Blackbird staff members on LinkedIn, who mentioned an unspecified number of job losses. This latest round of layoffs follows a previous reduction in August, which saw the departure of 41 developers due to the cancellation of several unannounced projects. Blackbird Interactive is currently working on Earthless and Homeworld 3, the latter of which has experienced a release delay from March 8 to May 13.