Wildlight Entertainment, the development studio behind the recently launched online game Highguard, has confirmed a significant reduction in its workforce. The layoffs, which occurred this week, have resulted in the departure of most of the team according to internal reports, following a troubled launch period for the game.
The studio has not disclosed the exact number of employees affected by the staff cuts. The decision was communicated internally, with the company citing the challenging post-launch environment and the need to restructure its operations. This development marks a sharp reversal for a studio that had been building its team in anticipation of Highguard’s release.
Background on Highguard’s Launch
Highguard launched to the public earlier this year, entering a competitive market for online multiplayer games. Initial player reception and technical reviews highlighted several performance issues and gameplay imbalances, which are common hurdles for new live-service titles. The studio had been engaged in post-launch support, releasing patches and updates to address community feedback and stabilize the game’s infrastructure.
Wildlight Entertainment was founded by industry veterans with experience at major development studios. The team’s goal was to create a distinctive online world, with Highguard representing its first major project and public debut. The investment in development and marketing positioned the launch as a critical test for the studio’s long-term viability.
Industry Context and Reactions
The video game industry has experienced a wave of layoffs and studio restructuring throughout the past year. Economic pressures, shifting market demands, and the high costs associated with developing and maintaining AAA live-service games have contributed to a volatile environment. Many companies are reassessing project scales and team sizes following launch periods.
While Wildlight Entertainment has issued a brief confirmation of the layoffs, there has been no detailed public statement from company leadership regarding severance packages or outplacement support for affected staff. The broader game development community has begun responding on professional networks, with expressions of support for those seeking new positions in the industry.
Implications for Highguard’s Future
The reduction of most of the development team raises immediate questions about the ongoing operation and future content roadmap for Highguard. Live-service games require consistent technical maintenance, server management, and content updates to retain their player base. A skeleton crew may struggle to deliver on previously communicated plans or address emergent issues at the same pace.
Current players of Highguard are awaiting official communication regarding the game’s status. Key concerns include the continuity of server operations, the handling of active player subscriptions or in-game purchases, and the potential for any planned seasonal content or major patches. The studio has not yet updated its official community channels with a revised development plan.
The next steps for Wildlight Entertainment as a corporate entity remain unclear. The studio may pivot to a minimal maintenance mode for its sole title, seek new investment or partnership opportunities, or undergo a more fundamental strategic review. The coming weeks are expected to bring more clarity as the remaining management team formalizes its post-layoff strategy and communicates with stakeholders and the player community.
Source: GamesIndustry.biz
