Firaxis Games Unleashes Brutal Blow: Civilization VII Team Hit by Mass Layoffs

Firaxis Games Cuts Staff Amid Restructuring Efforts In a move that has sent shockwaves through the gaming industry, Firaxis Games, the studio behind Civilization VII, has undergone layoffs. The news broke when a former employee took to LinkedIn to announce her unemployment, and was subsequently picked up by Game Developer. "We can confirm there was a staff reduction today at Firaxis Games, as the studio restructures and optimizes its development process for adaptability, collaboration, and creativity," a spokesperson wrote in an email to multiple news outlets. The company declined to provide specific numbers on how many employees were let go. The layoffs come amid concerns over the performance of Firaxis' two most recent titles. Marvel's Midnight Suns, released in 2022, and Civilization VII, launched in 2025, both saw lukewarm initial sales and player numbers. According to data from market research firm NPD Group, Marvel's Midnight Suns sold around 300,000 copies in its first month of release, while Civilization VII has consistently lagged behind predecessors like Civilization VI. The issues with Civilization VII were compounded by a rocky launch, which was marred by bugs and UI problems that frustrated players. The game also made significant changes to the franchise's formula, alienating some fans who felt it strayed too far from traditional gameplay. "We're always looking for ways to improve and adapt," said Sid Meier, Firaxis' co-founder and director of development. "We appreciate our community's feedback and are committed to making the best games possible." The layoffs have sparked concerns about the future of Firaxis Games, which has been a stalwart in the gaming industry since its founding in 1996. The studio is known for its work on the Civilization series, as well as other popular titles like XCOM. Industry analysts point out that the move to restructure and optimize development processes is not uncommon in the gaming industry, particularly among larger studios. "It's a sign of the times," said one analyst. "Studios are looking to be more agile and responsive to changing market conditions." As for Firaxis Games, it remains to be seen how the layoffs will impact future projects. The studio has been tight-lipped about its plans, but sources close to the company indicate that they are committed to delivering high-quality games. In a statement, 2K Games, Firaxis' parent company, expressed confidence in the studio's ability to adapt and thrive. "We're proud of the work our team at Firaxis has done, and we're excited about the future," said a spokesperson for 2K Games. The gaming industry will be watching closely as Firaxis Games navigates this challenging period. One thing is certain: the studio's commitment to innovation and quality will continue to drive its success in the years to come. *Reporting by Arstechnica.*