Cloud Chamber has reduced its workforce by an undisclosed number of employees as Rod Fergusson steps in to oversee the challenging development of BioShock 4.

Update, Wednesday August 20, 2025: 2K Games has announced a reduction in the team working on BioShock 4.

2K's president, David Ismailer, shared with staff through a Cloud Chamber internal memo, published by Eurogamer, that there will be adjustments made to key aspects of BioShock, leading to a smaller development team for focused efforts.

Ismailer stated, "BioShock holds a significant place within 2K Games. It's crucial we honor its legacy and align with our fans' expectations to ensure success."

"Development on the new BioShock installment has been underway for years. While we are enthusiastic about the game's foundational elements, we are revisiting core components, necessitating a leaner team to concentrate our work and potentially extend the development period."

"Understanding this news is difficult for everyone, we assure those affected by job changes will receive notices today outlining support, severance, and career assistance. We aim to offer as much support as possible during this transition," he continued.

While acknowledging the mixed emotions of the situation, Ismailer expressed excitement over Rod Fergusson joining the team, thanking current staff for their efforts. These steps reflect 2K's belief in BioShock as a vital franchise and a commitment to its best installment yet.

2K has not disclosed the exact number of employees affected by these changes.

Original story: The development team at Cloud Chamber for BioShock 4 has reportedly undergone a leadership shift, with former Diablo executive Rod Fergusson stepping in amidst layoffs.

Kelley Gilmore, a veteran from Firaxis, exited recently after changes in BioShock's leadership by Take-Two Interactive following a subpar internal review.

Sources indicated to Bloomberg's Jason Schreier that the game's story required enhancements, prompting personnel adjustments as Rod Fergusson becomes Cloud Chamber's new studio head.

Fergusson announced his exit from Blizzard on August 8. There's informal acknowledgment of his role in BioShock, reminiscent of his previous brief involvement in BioShock Infinite before departing Irrational after eight months.

Fergusson shared via social media: "Would you kindly allow me to announce that I'm returning to 2K as the new Head of the BioShock Franchise, overseeing the next game and related projects, including a Netflix film."

"While excited to begin, I am aware of the challenges presented by the studio's restructuring. I appreciate the work done so far and aim to deliver a BioShock experience that matches our aspirations and delights our audience. For now, onboarding is the priority, with more updates to come."

The next BioShock title was confirmed by 2K Games subsidiary Cloud Chamber in 2019. It will be the first new installment since BioShock Infinite debuted in 2013.