Tomb Raider Developer Crystal Dynamics Faces Layoffs Amidst Restructuring
In a disappointing turn of events for fans of the beloved Tomb Raider franchise, Embracer Group has announced a series of restructuring measures that have impacted several studios, including Crystal Dynamics. The Swedish conglomerate, which recently lost a deal worth over $2 billion, is now facing the consequences of its financial struggles.
Crystal Dynamics, the developers behind the Lara Croft series since 2006, has been hit by a wave of layoffs, despite having been spared from previous cuts. According to reports from Game Developer media, the team has undergone a restructuring process, resulting in the dismissal of more than 10 employees. The aim of this move seems to be aligning the team with current business needs, although Embracer has expressed its commitment to supporting the affected individuals in any way possible.
Former employees have also confirmed their departure from Crystal Dynamics through LinkedIn. Nicholas Edwards, the former brand director, lamented his fate, stating, “Unfortunately, I am one of the people hit by the latest round of layoffs at Embracer that affected Crystal Dynamics this morning.” The departments affected include project management, public relations, editing, and 2D art.
What’s Next for Tomb Raider?
Despite the setbacks, Crystal Dynamics is still actively working on a new Tomb Raider video game, which will be published by Amazon Games. Additionally, the studio is co-developing Perfect Dark alongside The Initiative. Fans can also look forward to the release of Tomb Raider I-III Remastered on February 14, 2024, a compilation of the first three games with a modern facelift. Furthermore, a new Tomb Raider mobile game has recently been launched.
Expanding beyond the gaming industry, Amazon has ambitious plans for the Tomb Raider franchise. The company aims to create a cohesive world that brings together video games, movies, and series. As part of this vision, Prime Video is developing a live-action series based on Lara Croft: Tomb Raider, with Phoebe Waller-Bridge attached. Additionally, Lara Croft will star in an animated series on Netflix, continuing her story after the events of the last trilogy from Square Enix, specifically after the events of Shadow of the Tomb Raider. The announcement of the animated series was made over two years ago, and fans can expect more updates in the coming months.
Sources: 3DGames
