MercurySteam, the indie studio behind Metroid Dread, has announced a round of layoffs just days before the launch of its latest game, Blades of Fire.
The Madrid-based developer shared the news via a LinkedIn post, describing the layoffs as "a workforce adjustment process." The phrasing drew criticism for its perceived lack of empathy.
"While this is something common within the production cycles of our industry, it is nonetheless a difficult and painful situation," the post read. "We want to express our deepest respect, gratitude, and support for the people affected, whose talent, effort, and commitment have been an important part of the studio’s history."
The studio’s next game, Blades of Fire, launches in just two days. As of now, the game holds a 71 rating on Metacritic based on 54 reviews.
MercurySteam has a strong track record, having co-developed Metroid Dread with Nintendo in 2021. The studio also developed Metroid: Samus Returns for the 3DS and the Castlevania: Lords of Shadow series.
"If your studio or company is looking for experienced developers, please feel free to contact us," the post continued. "We will do everything we can to help these professionals find new opportunities. Over the coming weeks, we will focus all our efforts on handling this process with the utmost responsibility, humanity, and respect for everyone involved."
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