Former Volition Developers Launch Shapeshifter Games Amid Industry Layoffs

The closure of Saints Row developer Volition marked the beginning of a wave of layoffs and studio closures in the gaming industry. However, from the ashes of Volition, a new studio has risen: Shapeshifter Games, a co-development house founded by Volition alumni Matthew Madigan, Brian Traficante, and Rob Loftus. The studio is currently working with InXile Entertainment on the upcoming Xbox exclusive Clockwork Revolution, with plans to expand into a hybrid remote and in-office setup. Madigan, who left Volition in 2017, was inspired to create the new studio after hearing about the closure of his former employer and the resulting layoffs. He reached out to Traficante, and the two began discussing the possibility of starting a new studio. They were later joined by Loftus, who had been executive producer at Volition. The trio decided to focus on co-development, citing the risks and challenges of creating original IP in the current market. Instead, they aim to provide a reliable and skilled development team for publishers, while also keeping their own team employed and sustainable. Shapeshifter Games has already hired over ten employees, all of whom are former Volition staff, and is looking to grow to around 200-300 people in the long term. The studio's goal is to create a stable and secure environment for its developers, while also delivering high-quality games for its partners. As the gaming industry continues to navigate the challenges of layoffs and studio closures, Shapeshifter Games is taking a cautious and considered approach to its growth and development. With a focus on co-development and a commitment to its employees, the studio is well-positioned to weather the current storm and emerge as a major player in the AAA gaming industry.