Sucker Punch Productions, the developer behind Ghost of Tsushima and Ghost of Yōtei, has cut 26 jobs. According to reports, the layoffs occurred as the studio gears up for its next game. In emails sent to staff, Sucker Punch explained that current market conditions necessitated adjusting the team’s size, leading to the reductions.
As the studio stated in the message, “After carefully observing the challenges in the market and reviewing the team needs for our next project, we’ve decided to make some staffing reductions. Several positions across Sucker Punch will be eliminated as a result.” The email continued, “We have extended the consultation period by one additional month as we explore options, including finding a partner to support the studio through the development work still ahead.”
The exact nature of the studio’s current project remains unconfirmed, though players have speculated it could be a card-based game, while others have expressed a desire for the return of Infamous and Sly Cooper. The studio has not made any announcements regarding its future titles.
These layoffs follow the October 1, 2026 release of Ghost of Yōtei: Complete Edition, which brought the Echoes of Sekigahara story expansion and additional content to the PS5 title. Sucker Punch has not yet revealed its next game, nor has it provided a specific date for when it will share updates on its future plans.
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How Layoffs Affect Experienced Game Developers
Job reductions consistently create hardships for the artists, designers, and skilled professionals responsible for crafting memorable games as they attempt to secure comparable positions elsewhere. Finding a new role is rarely immediate, even for veterans of renowned titles. While their expertise is valuable, available openings may not align with their previous experience or compensation levels.
While Sucker Punch has yet to disclose details about its upcoming game, attention currently remains on the studio’s trajectory and the employees navigating the transition to new employment.
