Layoffs Hit Activision, Treyarch

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Publisher expects to “release fewer games based on license properties.”


Activision has laid off 30 employees in an effort to move out of the licensed games business. Activision confirmed the news this afternoon, and a representative provided IGN with the following statement:

"Like any successful business, Activision Publishing consistently works to align its costs with its revenues – this is an ongoing process. In 2013, we expect to release fewer games based on license properties and as a result are realigning our structure to better reflect the market opportunities and our slate. Approximately, 30 full-time employees have been impacted globally, which represents approximately one half of one percent of Activision Blizzard’s employee population. We are offering those employees who are impacted outplacement counseling services."

While no specific titles are mentioned, Activision’s licensed games business includes Transformers, James Bond, Spider-Man, Family Guy and many more.

Activision also confirmed layoffs at Call of Duty: Black Ops II studio Treyarch, providing the following additional statement:

“Now that we have launched Black Ops II, we are taking a minimal reduction in staff to better align our development talent against the needs of DLC development. The release of the DLC will not be impacted by this move.”

We’ve reached out for clarification on exactly what franchises might be affected by the shift away from licensed games and will update this story with any additional information we receive.

IGN wishes the best of luck to anyone affected by today’s news.

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