Core Insights - Virtuos, a prominent game outsourcing company, is undergoing a significant layoff affecting approximately 300 employees, which is about 7% of its global workforce [1][3][4] - The layoffs are part of a strategic adjustment to meet the evolving demands of the gaming industry, particularly in high-value collaborative development [3][4][10] - The company has recently focused on larger-scale projects, such as the remastering of "The Elder Scrolls IV: Oblivion," which has led to increased resource allocation but insufficient financial returns [6][8][10] Company Overview - Virtuos was established in 2004 in Shanghai and later moved its headquarters to Singapore, currently employing around 4,200 people globally [1][3] - The company has made several acquisitions in North America and Europe to enhance its capabilities in visual effects, design, and creative development [1][3] Layoff Details - The layoffs will primarily affect departments experiencing reduced business demand due to structural changes in the industry, with around 200 positions in Asia and 70 in Europe [3][4] - The French division, which is part of the core development team for "Oblivion Remastered," is minimally impacted, with fewer than 10 positions affected [3][4] Strategic Shift - Virtuos is shifting its focus from the competitive light repair market to larger projects, similar to Bluepoint Games, which has raised concerns about profitability despite high-quality output [6][10] - The company has implemented cost-cutting measures, including salary freezes and reduced bonuses, prior to the layoffs, indicating financial strain [8][10] Industry Context - The layoffs at Virtuos are reflective of broader challenges faced by major gaming companies, including Microsoft and Sony, which are also experiencing layoffs and project cancellations [11][13] - The gaming industry is currently perceived to be in a downturn, impacting outsourcing firms like Virtuos that rely heavily on contracts from larger studios [13][15]
“全球第一”厂商公布一轮大裁员,约300人被裁
3 6 Ke·2025-07-18 13:03