Swedish developer Star Stable Entertainment has reduced its workforce by 20 percent as part of a restructuring programme. The company said the move is intended to secure the long-term future of Star Stable Online, its multiplayer role-playing horse adventure game.
Interim chief executive officer James Watkins announced the decision in a statement on LinkedIn. He described the reduction as a difficult step, but one that was needed to strengthen the company’s position.
Restructuring announcement
The announcement did not specify the total number of employees affected or identify the departments involved. The 20 percent reduction represents one fifth of the company’s workforce.
Watkins said: “This step is necessary to secure the long-term future of Star Stable.”
He added that the decision does not reflect negatively on the affected employees.
“Making this decision was incredibly challenging and does not diminish the contribution these team members have made, ” Watkins said.
The interim CEO also outlined the intended benefits of the restructuring.
“By reducing our operating costs and refocusing our resources, we are putting Star Stable in the best possible position to adapt, grow, and deliver memorable experiences for players today and for years to come.”
On support for departing staff, Watkins said: “Right now, our immediate focus is supporting the talented colleagues who are leaving us. I want to express my sincere personal gratitude for their hard work, creativity, and dedication. We are fully committed to helping them navigate this transition with care and respect.”
Company background
Star Stable Entertainment is known for Star Stable Online, an online multiplayer role-playing game centred on horses. The developer has operated the game as a live service for its player community.
Ownership history
Nordisk Games became a majority shareholder in Star Stable Entertainment in 2021 after increasing its stake in the company. Nordisk Games currently owns 57 percent of the developer.
Before gaining majority control, Nordisk Games purchased a substantial minority share in May 2018. That investment was estimated at $17 million. Later in 2018, Nordisk Games held a 40 percent stake in the company.
Implications
The restructuring is intended to reduce operating costs and refocus resources on core areas. Watkins said the company aims to adapt and grow while continuing to deliver experiences for players.
The company has not disclosed further operational changes or a specific timeline for the restructuring process. Immediate priorities identified by Watkins include support for affected employees.
Star Stable Entertainment has not announced additional measures or a detailed timeline beyond the workforce reduction. Watkins said the company’s immediate focus is helping departing colleagues, while the restructuring is intended to provide a more stable foundation for the game’s long-term future.
