1047 Games has decided to return Splitgate 2 to its "beta" stage and has also announced a new wave of layoffs

1047 Games has revealed that its free first-person shooter, Splitgate 2, is reverting to a beta phase. This change comes after the game studio announced a second round of layoffs.

In a statement posted on X on July 22, co-founders Ian Proulx and Nicholas Bagamian shared that the decision to return Splitgate 2 to beta status was based on player input.

"We’ve listened to your feedback and agree with your critiques," wrote the co-founders. "Our enthusiasm for Splitgate 2 led us to establish ambitious goals, and as a result, we have realized the need to scale back."

The studio announced plans to work intensively into early next year, focusing on major reconstructions to preserve what made Splitgate unique. This includes reimagining progression, integrating additional portals into maps, streamlining monetization, and emphasizing classic gameplay modes.

Speaking to Polygon, Proulx highlighted the importance of developing the game in collaboration with the community, enhancing player interaction and engagement through feedback and testing phases.

On X, the studio further communicated their commitment to involving the community, stating, "We're not only returning to the fundamental elements of our creation but also to the collaborative way we design—with more community engagement."

To facilitate these changes for Splitgate 2, 1047 Games has confirmed another series of layoffs, shortly after letting go of employees in June, as detailed on GamesIndustry.biz.

The X post elaborates, "In order to afford the time necessary to develop the Splitgate you deserve, we've had to make the painful decision to downsize certain positions and redirect resources. We are deeply saddened, as these individuals are valued colleagues and friends, essential to our current achievements. We are prioritizing severance and job transition support and are determined to assist them during this challenging period. Our aim is to welcome them back in the future."

GamesIndustry.biz has contacted 1047 Games for further information regarding the layoffs in June and the forthcoming layoffs.

In efforts to "keep as many staff as possible," the company also plans to close the original Splitgate's servers next month, although Splitgate 2's Chapter 3 will proceed as scheduled.