Announcement of Closure
Humanoid Origin, the game studio founded by Casey Hudson, a co-creator of the iconic Mass Effect series, has officially announced its closure. This unexpected development was shared through a post on LinkedIn, where the studio expressed its disappointment over the shut down due to “an unexpected shortfall of funding” despite the team’s efforts to navigate the challenging landscape of the gaming industry.
Heartfelt Message from the Team
In the announcement, the studio conveyed their sorrow over not being able to complete their ambitious new science-fiction universe. They emphasized that their primary concern at this moment is for their team members. The studio committed to supporting its employees as they transition to new job opportunities.
> “We’re heartbroken that we will not be able to bring our new science-fiction universe to completion. Our main concern at this time however is for our team, and we are committed to supporting them in their transition to new employment.”
The message highlighted the incredible achievements made during their time together, showcasing a culture centered on creativity and enjoyment within the workplace.
Background of Humanoid Origin
Founded in June 2021, Humanoid Origin was initially announced as Humanoid Studios following Hudson’s departure from BioWare in December 2020. The studio aimed to deliver a multi-platform, AAA game set in a new science fiction universe. In 2023, Hudson updated the studio’s name to Humanoid Origin, reflecting the belief that the creativity behind their games originates from the talented individuals on their team. Notably, the studio was actively recruiting new talent as recently as May of this year.
The Broader Context of Industry Challenges
The closure of Humanoid Origin is part of a disturbing trend in the gaming industry, characterized by a wave of layoffs, studio closures, and game cancellations. In 2024 alone, approximately 14,000 developers have lost their jobs, following over 10,000 layoffs the previous year. This ongoing crisis has sparked discussions about the reasons behind such drastic changes and their impact on the gaming community. As we look ahead, it remains uncertain when these closures will begin to stabilize.
Final Thoughts
The closing of Humanoid Origin serves as a poignant reminder of the volatility in the gaming industry today. As the community reflects on the loss of this promising studio, the focus shifts to supporting those affected and hoping for a more stable future for game development.
Rebekah Valentine is a senior reporter for IGN. You can find her on BlueSky @duckvalentine.bsky.social. If you have a story tip, feel free to reach out at rvalentine@ign.com.
