Schell Games is said to have reduced its workforce

Reports have emerged suggesting that Schell Games, co-developer of Among Us 3D and known for the I Expect You to Die series, has executed its first wave of employee layoffs.

The development was covered by Game Developer, highlighting numerous LinkedIn updates from employees starting last Friday.

The studio’s principal engineering manager confirmed, "Schell Games had their first ever layoffs today," adding that their own position was not affected. They attributed the layoffs to industry-wide challenges, rather than individual performance.

Dwayne Waite Jr., the director of marketing, verified the decision impacted the marketing division and identified four colleagues affected. Additionally, senior public relations manager disclosed more names from artistic, design, and visual effects teams.

These disclosures indicate that approximately 14 employees were laid off. According to the company's LinkedIn page, Schell Games employs between 51 to 200 individuals.

Expressing disappointment, the public relations manager stated, "I won't pretend this isn't a disappointing way to end this chapter, especially after almost 6 years." Despite this, they expressed pride in their achievements and gratitude for the connections made.

These events transpired despite CEO Jesse Schell's previous public opposition to layoffs.

During a 2024 discussion with GamesIndustry.biz, Schell emphasized that the company protects jobs by distinguishing financial risk from employee risk. He stated, "We'll put cash at risk when we make a game, but we don't put jobs at risk."

In the same conversation, Schell elaborated that they retain a path to sustain employment even if their intellectual properties were unsuccessful financially. He remarked, "Even if our own IP brings in zero dollars, we still haven't put any jobs at risk – we still have a path forward."

GamesIndustry.biz has reached out to Schell Games for further comment.