Dozens of Contractors Let Go by Naughty Dog, According to Reports

According to a recent report, Naughty Dog is set to lay off a minimum of 25 contract developers by the end of the month, with no severance package provided. The information, sourced from two individuals familiar with the situation, indicates that the layoffs are focused on the contractor workforce and do not affect permanent staff. The majority of the affected individuals are from the quality assurance team. It has been alleged that management has been exerting pressure on employees to maintain confidentiality regarding the layoffs. This development marks the latest event in a significant year for the studio, which has seen the successful launch of an HBO series based on The Last of Us, as well as the announcement of co-president Evan Wells' retirement amidst challenges in developing the multiplayer component of The Last of Us. Although the project has not been officially cancelled, it is currently on hold. At the time of announcing difficulties with the multiplayer game, the studio confirmed that work had commenced on a new single-player title. Representatives from Sony have yet to provide a response to requests for comment.