In a recent “Organizational Update” released on July 26, CD Projekt Red, the renowned studio behind hit titles such as “The Witcher” series and “Cyberpunk 2077,” announced its decision to initiate a workforce reduction to address overstaffing. The studio revealed plans to part ways with approximately 100 employees, representing around 9% of its total workforce. The move comes as the company seeks to streamline its operations and optimize its development teams for upcoming projects.
CD Projekt Red CEO, Adam Kiciński, candidly acknowledged the challenging situation, stating –
“There’s no easy way to say this, but today we are overstaffed. We have talented people on board who are completing their current tasks, and based on the current and projected project needs, we already know that we won’t have additional opportunities for them in the next year.”
While the studio is committed to ensuring a smooth transition for those affected, the layoffs won’t be immediate, and some may take place over the course of the following year. CD Projekt Red is actively working to provide support and assistance to impacted employees during this transitional period.
It is important to note that the studio has not specified which departments or development teams will be affected by the layoffs. As CD Projekt Red continues to expand its portfolio with a new Witcher trilogy, a Witcher spin-off game, a Cyberpunk 2077 sequel, and an entirely new franchise, careful deliberations will likely be made to align the workforce with the requirements of these ambitious projects.
Do you know that the world of video games has undergone a stratospheric growth in popularity over the last few decades, with consoles playing a vital part in creating the gaming landscape? Check out our article on the seven best-selling gaming systems of all time:
In recent years, CD Projekt Red has been making significant strides in establishing a global presence beyond its native Poland. This includes the establishment of a new studio in Boston and the acquisition of The Molasses Flood in the US, as well as Digital Scapes in Vancouver, Canada.
Furthermore, fans can anticipate the imminent release of “Cyberpunk 2077: Phantom Liberty” on September 26 of this year, exclusively for PC and next-gen consoles. Following this launch, CD Projekt Red has not disclosed the order in which its upcoming projects will be released, leaving fans to speculate on the timelines for the highly anticipated sequels and spin-offs.
While the decision to downsize is undoubtedly challenging, CD Projekt Red remains dedicated to maintaining its commitment to delivering high-quality and engaging gaming experiences. The studio’s focus on ensuring a well-structured and efficient development team indicates its dedication to delivering exceptional content to its global audience.
As the gaming industry continues to evolve, CD Projekt Red is poised to adapt and grow, embarking on new ventures while cherishing the creative talents that have contributed to their legacy. In the face of this restructuring, fans can rest assured that the studio’s dedication to captivating storytelling and immersive gameplay remains unwavering.