Kwalee Labs has laid off its entire development team for the cosmic horror shooter, Luna Abyss, just weeks after the game’s launch on May 21. The company’s CEO, Hollie Emery, announced on June 16 that all nine employees responsible for the project had been made redundant. While she did not provide a detailed explanation, Emery mentioned that the decision was “completely outside of our control.”
Impact on the Luna Abyss Team
The sudden layoffs have left the small team seeking new employment opportunities. In her LinkedIn statement, Emery expressed gratitude for the love and support received from both the industry and media. She noted that despite facing many challenges, the team was proud to see Luna Abyss finally released.
About Luna Abyss
Luna Abyss is available on major gaming platforms, including PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X/S, and PC. The game places players in the role of a prisoner exploring an abandoned megastructure on the moon Luna. Players must confront cosmic horrors through first-person shooter combat, which incorporates bullet hell mechanics and emphasizes mobility.
Critical Reception
The game has received a favorable reception, boasting a critics’ score of 81 on Metacritic. Game Informer editor-in-chief Matt Miller praised Luna Abyss, comparing it to the recently released Saros while highlighting its unique qualities. He recommended it as a worthwhile experience for players.
Future Prospects
The future remains uncertain for the laid-off employees. As the gaming community reflects on the praise for Luna Abyss, the team hopes to leverage their skills and experience in new opportunities.
