The gaming industry was reported to be facing widespread layoffs and studio closures despite strong financial forecasts, including expectations that the release of Grand Theft Auto VI would help drive console-game revenue more than 17% higher this year. Analysts estimated that GTA VI could generate €2.9 billion to €4.6 billion in its first week, while Newzoo put the global gaming market at about €192 billion, up 6% from 2023. More than 11,000 game developers were reportedly dismissed this year, according to ASGC figures. Examples included job cuts and office closures at Ubisoft, a 3,200-person reorganisation at Microsoft’s Xbox division, and the closure of BioWare by Electronic Arts, which also halted work on a new Mass Effect game.

The downturn was linked by Dutch Game Association chairman Jeroen Derwort to overinvestment during the coronavirus period and the release of many expensive games in a short time. Dutch studios including Ronimo Games, Paladin Studios and PlayerUnknown Productions were reported to have closed or gone bankrupt. Utrecht developer Multipoot recently advertised vacancies and received 1,200 responses within a day, including from experienced developers who had lost their jobs. Derwort called for more government support, while Multipoot founder Keano Raubun said people should enter the industry for its creative appeal rather than for money or stability.