Recently, Prytania Media’s Possibility Space studio became the second of the company’s studios to close down in recent weeks. Founded by Jeff Strain, who is known for his involvement in the creation of Guild Wars and State Of Decay, the closure came as a shock to many in the industry. The closure was preceded by Crop Circle Games’ shutdown in March, also under Strain’s leadership. The closure of Possibility Space was announced in a message to staff, citing leaks of confidential information to a journalist as the primary reason behind the decision.
In his message to staff, Strain expressed his disappointment and shock at the leaked information, which included details about Project Vonnegut, the company’s publishing partner, and internal financial discussions. The leaks were attributed to current employees, which Strain found particularly troubling given the company’s strict confidentiality agreements. The decision to close the studio was made after discussions with the publishing partner revealed a lack of confidence in continuing to invest resources in the project.
Employee Impact
The closure of Possibility Space resulted in immediate termination for all staff, with no guarantee of severance pay. Strain mentioned that it would take a few days to calculate the studio’s financial obligations and determine what, if any, severance could be offered. This sudden closure and lack of financial support left many employees in a precarious situation, uncertain about their future in the industry.
This closure adds to the recent string of layoffs and studio closures in the gaming industry, highlighting the challenges faced by developers and employees. The handling of the closure, particularly the lack of communication and support for employees, has drawn criticism from industry observers. The closure of Crop Circle Games earlier in the year, and the subsequent leaks of internal information, have further damaged Prytania Media’s reputation in the industry.
Strain’s response to the leaks and subsequent closure of Possibility Space raises questions about leadership and accountability in the industry. The decision to close a studio and terminate all staff without guaranteed severance pay is a serious one, and one that reflects poorly on the company’s commitment to its employees. Strain’s history with Undead Labs, another studio that faced criticism for its internal culture, further underscores the need for strong leadership and ethical conduct in the industry.
The closure of Possibility Space underlines the challenges faced by developers and employees in the gaming industry. The lack of transparency, communication, and support for employees in times of crisis can have lasting consequences for both individuals and companies. As the industry continues to grapple with issues of leadership and accountability, it is crucial for companies to prioritize the well-being of their employees and uphold ethical standards in their operations. The closure of Possibility Space serves as a reminder of the importance of responsible leadership and the impact it can have on the industry as a whole.
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