Funcom Announces Job Cuts Amid Dune: Awakening Development Plans

Exciting Developments at Funcom amid Staff Restructuring

Funcom’s Dune: Awakening Marks Historic Achievement

Oslo-based video game developer Funcom has announced a significant restructuring following the release of their groundbreaking title, Dune: Awakening. As the biggest release in their 32-year history, the open-world survival game has been a remarkable success. Despite this achievement, changes are imminent within the studio’s workforce as part of an effort to optimize future operations.

Focusing on New Content and Long-term Growth

Funcom revealed plans to redirect internal resources toward developing new content, features, and enhancements for Dune: Awakening. The successful transition from development to a long-term live operation includes paving the way for a major console release next year. This necessitates a reorganization of teams to focus on priority projects, resulting in departures of some cherished staff members.

Support for Affected Employees

The restructuring process aims to assist impacted employees by providing them with guidance and opportunities for future endeavors. Funcom emphasizes the importance of supporting team members during this challenging time and encourages understanding as specific details regarding the extent of the impact remain undetermined.

Dune: Awakening Breaks Sales Records

Dune: Awakening rapidly became Funcom’s fastest-selling title, garnering one million players just weeks after its PC launch in June. The game is slated for release on PS5 and Xbox next year, further expanding its reach in the gaming community.

Tencent’s Strategic Partnership with Funcom

Since its acquisition of Funcom in 2020, Chinese tech giant Tencent has played an essential role in the studio’s operations. In a recent interview with Emegypt, Yong-yi Zhu, VP and head of business operations at Tencent Games, discussed their collaboration with Funcom.

• Tencent has provided technological support, helping stabilize backend systems and servers for Funcom’s latest releases.
• The partnership has enabled both companies to expand their audience reach globally, leveraging their regional expertise.
• Despite industry dynamics, Tencent remains committed to its investments in Western studios, including Funcom.

Looking Forward

As Funcom navigates these organizational changes, the focus remains on delivering high-quality content and expanding the reach of Dune: Awakening. The restructuring serves as a strategic move to enhance the studio’s long-term capabilities and success.