Hi-Rez Studios has undergone significant layoffs, resulting in a major shakeup within the company and its subsidiaries. This development has had a noticeable impact on the Smite 2 esports scene, leaving fans and players uncertain about its future.
Hi-Rez Studios Faces Workforce Reductions
The American game developer, known for titles like Smite, Paladins, and Rogue Company, has cut a substantial portion of its workforce. The layoffs extended to its subsidiary studios, including Rally Here, Evil Mojo Games, and Titan Forge Games. The news first emerged on Discord before being widely shared by Twitter user Hocky2001, catching the gaming community by surprise.
A Difficult Business Decision
According to an official statement from Hi-Rez Studios, the decision was made to ensure the long-term sustainability of the company. The statement acknowledged the difficulty of the choice but emphasized that it was necessary for the future of their development efforts.
Moving forward, Hi-Rez has decided to shift its focus entirely to Smite 2, which is currently in early access. As a result, updates for Smite 1, Paladins, and Rogue Company have been paused. While the servers for these games will remain active for now, there is uncertainty regarding how long they will be supported.
Hi-Rez, Smite 2 (image via Getty)Smite Esports Scene in Limbo
In a move that surprise the esports community, the official Smite Esports website has been taken offline. This abrupt decision comes just a week after the Smite 2 Founder’s Series Championship concluded, with 5M emerging as the winners. The disappearance of the site has left many players questioning the future of Smite esports and whether the competitive scene will continue in any capacity.
A Third and Most Severe Round of Layoffs
According to Smite content creator and coach Hayzer, this marks the third round of layoffs at Hi-Rez Studios, with the most recent being the largest to date. Reports indicate that approximately 50% of employees across all departments were affected. Marketing, game design, and production teams were all hit hard, creating further instability within the organization.
CEO Stewart Chisam Faces Backlash
Adding fuel to the controversy, Hi-Rez Studios CEO Stewart Chisam deleted his X (Twitter) account just days before the layoffs were publicly announced. This move did not go unnoticed, with both employees and fans expressing frustration. Many accused the company of failing to show transparency and disregarding its dedicated player base.
Hi-Rez, Smite 2 (image via Getty)Employees Seek New Opportunities
Those affected by the layoffs have been placed on an eight-week notice period and are actively looking for new roles within the gaming industry. Several former employees have taken to social media to share their experiences, express gratitude for their time at Hi-Rez, and reach out for job opportunities.
A Wider Trend in the Gaming Industry
Hi-Rez Studios is not the only gaming company facing financial difficulties in 2025. Midnight Society, the studio co-founded by Dr Disrespect, recently shut down, resulting in all employees losing their jobs. Additionally, Ubisoft has made drastic cuts, permanently closing its Leamington studio, which had contributed to major titles like Far Cry 5 and Tom Clancy’s The Division.
The wave of layoffs across the industry has raised concerns about the stability of gaming studios, even those with popular franchises. With Hi-Rez Studios focusing solely on Smite 2, the community will be watching closely to see how the game develops and whether the esports scene can be revived in the future.
