Supermassive Games has announced a setback for its upcoming title, Directive 8020. The game, part of the well-known Dark Pictures series, will now launch in the first half of 2026. This delay follows a round of layoffs affecting up to 36 employees, a move the studio says was necessary to adapt to changes in the gaming industry.
In their statement, Supermassive expressed their commitment to support those impacted by the layoffs. They emphasized that while the decision was difficult, the feedback on Directive 8020 has been positive and the extra time will help them enhance the game. They thanked fans for their understanding and support.
Interestingly, the development of Little Nightmares 3 remains unaffected, with its release still scheduled for October. This gives fans something to look forward to while they wait for Directive 8020.
The gaming industry has been facing increased layoffs lately. Recent reports showed that major companies like Microsoft have also trimmed their workforce, impacting well-known studios such as Rare and ZeniMax. This trend reflects a broader shift in the industry, where studios feel the pressure to streamline operations in response to changing market dynamics.
Directive 8020 stars Lashana Lynch, known for her roles in James Bond and Marvel films, portraying a groundbreaking astronaut. Tom Phillips, a former Eurogamer editor, noted that early glimpses of the game showcased significant improvements over previous releases in the series.
As gaming continues to evolve, fans are left wondering how studios will adjust. Will these changes ultimately lead to better experiences? Only time will tell.
For more details on the gaming industry’s current landscape, you can check out reports from trusted sources like GamesIndustry.biz.