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2h ago

Crystal Dynamics Announces More Layoffs, Says Tomb Raider Is Unaffected

The cuts follow Microsoft's cancellation of the Perfect Dark reboot that Crystal Dynamics had supported.

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A scene from Shadow of the Tomb Raider showing Laura hunting through a forest with her bow while a leopard prowls a branch above her.
After years of development, Microsoft ultimately cancelled the Perfect Dark reboot in July, also closing its studio The Initiative as part of a larger, devastating round of layoffs around the company.

Overview

  • The studio confirmed on LinkedIn that it has let go of staff but did not disclose how many people were affected.
  • Crystal Dynamics cited "evolving business conditions" and said the in-development Tomb Raider project remains unaffected.
  • This marks the second round of layoffs in 2025 and at least the third since Embracer Group acquired the studio in 2022, following 17 cuts in March and earlier reductions in 2023.
  • Former employees and reports suggest some impacted roles were tied to the now-canceled Perfect Dark collaboration after The Initiative was shuttered in July.
  • The company pledged support and resources for those departing, and staff including senior animator Jaron Gittleman and senior designer Matthew Angus publicly said they were laid off.