NetEase, developer of the successful mobile game Marvel Rivals, has confirmed layoffs within its Seattle-based design team. Game director Thaddeus Sasser announced the cuts on LinkedIn, expressing surprise given the game's recent success. Marvel Rivals, a free-to-play hero shooter, boasts over 20 million downloads since its December launch and significant concurrent player numbers on Steam.
Sasser's LinkedIn profile indicates his team's contributions to game and level design for Marvel Rivals over the past two years. NetEase's statement confirmed the layoffs, citing "organizational reasons" and a need to optimize development efficiency. While the exact number of affected employees remains undisclosed, NetEase emphasized respectful treatment and recognition of their contributions.
The company reassured fans that ongoing support for Marvel Rivals will not be affected. The core development team, based in Guangzhou, China, and led by Weicong Wu and Guangyun Chen, remains committed to delivering new content, including characters, maps, and features. NetEase stated they are increasing investment in the game's future.
This latest round of layoffs follows a pattern of reduced overseas investment and studio closures for NetEase, including the shuttering of U.S. and Japan-based studios like Ouka Studios (developer of Visions of Mana). Previous actions include pausing operations for Worlds Untold and cutting ties with Jar of Sparks.
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