Funcom, the developer behind "Dune: Awakening," announces layoffs

Funcom, based in Oslo, has announced a reduction in its workforce following the launch of its major title, Dune: Awakening. As reported to GamesIndustry.biz, the company described the game as their most significant release to date in their 32 years of game development. However, this transition to supporting ongoing live operations and future console releases has necessitated a reorganization.

The company cited the impressive early success of the game, which has convinced them to redirect their internal efforts towards new offerings and improvements. Alongside these changes, a restructuring is set to occur, focusing resources and personnel from various projects. Although the number of staff affected is not yet specified, these changes will mean parting ways with some team members.

Funcom is making efforts to assist those impacted, aiming to find new roles for them during this challenging time. No further statements will be provided while the restructuring process is underway.

Dune: Awakening has broken records for Funcom, achieving one million players just two weeks post-launch in June, marking it as their fastest selling game. A console launch is planned for next year on PS5 and Xbox.

Tencent, which purchased Funcom in 2020, has been supportive during this time. Yong-yi Zhu, Vice President at Tencent Games, noted in an interview with GamesIndustry.biz that Funcom has not previously released a game of such scale. Therefore, Tencent provided technical assistance to enhance the game's stability and infrastructure.

Zhu also mentioned the collaborative approach taken between Tencent and Funcom, leveraging their respective strengths in various markets to broaden their audience globally.

In response to questions about altering its Western studio investments, Zhu clarified that while adjustments might occur in specific areas due to industry dynamics, there are no current plans to diminish their involvement in these studios.