Crystal Dynamics, the studio behind the Tomb Raider franchise, which includes a new game in development, has announced that 17 employees were part of the recent layoff. The decision was confirmed in a statement shared on X (formerly Twitter), where the studio explained that the layoffs were necessary to align with its current business needs and future goals, which is business talk for cost-cutting measures.
The studio emphasized that the decision was not a reflection of the dedication or abilities of the affected employees. Crystal Dynamics stated that it is providing transition packages and outreach opportunities to support employees who were part of the layoff. Despite the layoffs, the studio assured that its current project plans, including the next Tomb Raider game, remain unchanged, hopefully.
The upcoming Tomb Raider game, which was announced in December 2022, is being developed by Crystal Dynamics and will be published by Amazon. However, little is known about the project, as no gameplay or release window has been confirmed. The only glimpse of the game so far has been concept art showing Lara Croft in her iconic outfit, which isn’t exactly news for anyone who has been a fan of the series.
Crystal Dynamics is one of several studios affected by layoffs in recent years. Its parent company, Embracer Group, implemented a restructuring program in 2023 that led to studio closures and project cancellations across its portfolio.
In addition to the game, a live-action Tomb Raider series is also in development. Amazon Prime Video announced in May 2024 that it had ordered the series, which will reportedly star Sophie Turner, known for her role as Sansa Stark in Game of Thrones. The show is being written and executive produced by Phoebe Waller-Bridge, known for starring in Indiana Jones and the Dial of Destiny and for also creating Fleabag.
While Crystal Dynamics continues to work on the next Tomb Raider installment, details about the game remain scarce, but hopefully, we will hear more about it this year, unless it is stuck in development hell.
