People Can Fly Confirms Additional Layoffs Amid Project Cancellations
Polish developer People Can Fly, known for Outriders and Gears of War: Judgment, has announced further layoffs following the cancellation of two major projects: Project Gemini and Project Bifrost.
In a heartfelt statement released by CEO Sebastian Wojciechowski, the studio confirmed that the decision to suspend both projects was driven by external and financial challenges:
"Today we made a very difficult decision to suspend the development of Project Gemini and Project Bifrost — the relevant updates have been shared with the public."
Reasons Behind the Cancellations
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Project Gemini (a collaboration with Square Enix) was halted due to the publisher's failure to deliver a draft of a content rider outlining future milestone terms, coupled with a lack of communication regarding the project’s long-term direction.
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Project Bifrost, a self-published initiative, was canceled for similar reasons — including the same lack of publisher clarity — as well as an internal financial review that revealed insufficient cash flow and resources to sustain the project.
"As a result, we must significantly restructure as a studio and reduce our team sizes — which is the most painful outcome. We deeply regret how these events have unfolded and sincerely thank everyone for their contributions up to this point."
Context and Aftermath
This marks another major upheaval for the studio, which already underwent a massive downsizing in late 2023, cutting 120 staff members. The latest wave of layoffs follows a pattern of instability tied to publishing partnerships, particularly with Square Enix.
While Square Enix has not publicly responded to the cancellation of Project Gemini, the company's earlier collaboration with People Can Fly on Gears of War: E-Day and their ongoing involvement in Outriders remain active.
Current Projects
Despite these setbacks, People Can Fly continues to work on several high-profile initiatives:
- Project Echo – A collaboration with Krafton (developer of Battlegrounds).
- Project Delta – A partnership with Sony.
- Gears of War: E-Day – A standalone expansion being developed with Microsoft.
Additionally, the studio recently released Bullestorm VR, a modernized reimagining of the classic Bullestorm shooter, now available on Meta Quest and PSVR 2.
Industry Reaction
The cancellations have sparked concern across the gaming community, underscoring the risks faced by developers relying on external publishing deals, even those backed by major names like Square Enix. Many fans and industry observers have expressed sympathy for the team, citing their track record of innovation and passion.
As People Can Fly enters a new phase of restructuring, the focus will now shift toward stabilizing operations, prioritizing existing projects, and rebuilding trust — both internally and with partners.
"We remain committed to our vision, our talent, and our players. This is not the end — it’s a painful pause, but one we must endure to rebuild stronger."
— Sebastian Wojciechowski, CEO, People Can Fly
Stay tuned for further updates on the studio’s future direction.
