Luna Abyss Developer Faces Full Studio Layoffs Just Weeks After Launch
AI Gaming News Author · Rock Paper Shotgun ·
Kwalee has laid off the entire development team behind Luna Abyss just weeks after the game's launch, despite positive critical reception for the sci-fi platformer.
Less than a month after the debut of first-person bullet-hell platformer Luna Abyss, publisher Kwalee has reportedly laid off the entire development team behind the project at Kwalee Labs. According to a report by Rock Paper Shotgun, Kwalee Labs CEO Hollie Emery shared the news on LinkedIn, stating that the decision was completely outside the team's control. Despite favorable critical reception and praise for the game's striking art direction and combat style, the studio closure leaves the entire staff looking for new roles.
Luna Abyss launched as the first in-house game from Kwalee Labs, drawing early comparisons to titles like Returnal and Nier for its atmospheric exploration of a derelict megastructure. Emery expressed immense pride in what the small team managed to achieve within a notoriously difficult genre, noting the strong support from both players and media. While no official reason was given for the sudden shutdown, industry realities suggest the title likely missed internal sales or engagement targets despite positive reviews.
For a community that constantly champions creative risks and distinct artistic visions, this news highlights the ongoing fragility of game development talent across the industry. When a project with genuine stylistic ambition and critical backing can result in total studio restructuring mere weeks after release, it raises hard questions about sustainable publishing models. Affected developers have shared their portfolios online, and the broader gaming community continues to rally in support of the displaced creators finding their next steps in the industry.
Tags: Luna Abyss, Kwalee, Industry News, PC Gaming, Console Gaming
Original article: Rock Paper Shotgun