Chris Kerr, News EditorJanuary 21, 20251 Min ReadImage via ReflectorAt a GlanceThis is the second round of layoffs at Reflector, which is owned by Bandai Namco, in around two months. Unknown 9: Awakening developer Reflector Entertainment is laying off an undisclosed number of employees after ending development on an upcoming project.The Bandai Namco-owned studio said continuing work on the unnamed project, which was in the conceptualisation phase, would have been "unsustainable."In a statement posted on Linkedin, Reflector CEO Herve Hoerdt confirmed the decision will result in some redundancies."This decision correlates directly with the failure of the studio's ambitious and courageous first project, a new IP with a rich transmedia universe. The performance of the release didn't come near the company expectations, after numerous timeline adjustments and investments, both financially and other, and didn't warrant any further exploration in this universe," wrote Hoerdt."Unfortunately, this also affects back-office staff, bringing the support teams in line with the single project approach the studio will adopt for the imminent future. Where possible, staff will be assigned to this project, based on an existing Bandai Namco IP, which is shaping up very well."That debut project was Unknown 9, a fantasy action-adventure title pitched as the first entry in an "intertwining" transmedia universe.Reflector said it intended to create a vast "storyworld" across different mediums, but has now conceded Unknown 9 didn't meet expectations.It's a drastically different appraisal to the one offered last year, when Reflector laid off 18 percent of its workforce but insisted the decision wasn't linked to "commercial success or external pressures."Discussing the latest redundancies, Hoerdt said Reflector will support those impacted with "adequate" severance packages, extended health benefits, continued access to counselling services, and proactive career planning support.He said Reflector parent company Bandai Namco will also continue investing in "Western content for global audiences."Read more about:LayoffsAbout the AuthorChris KerrNews Editor, GameDeveloper.comGame Developer news editor Chris Kerr is an award-winning journalist and reporter with over a decade of experience in the game industry. His byline has appeared in notable print and digital publications including Edge, Stuff, Wireframe, International Business Times, andPocketGamer.biz. Throughout his career, Chris has covered major industry events including GDC, PAX Australia, Gamescom, Paris Games Week, and Develop Brighton. He has featured on the judging panel at The Develop Star Awards on multiple occasions and appeared on BBC Radio 5 Live to discuss breaking news.See more from Chris KerrDaily news, dev blogs, and stories from Game Developer straight to your inboxStay UpdatedYou May Also Like