Disappointing news out of Ascendant Studios today, the team behind the very recently released, single-player magical FPS, Immortals of Aveum, which was published under the EA Originals label, with Ascendant CEO Bret Robbins announcing that around 45% of the studio’s staff is being let go.
The message from Robbins doesn’t explicitly call out the game’s critical or commercial response as contributing to the need for layoffs, instead simply saying that the decision was a difficult but necessary one “now that Immortals of Aveum has shipped.”
The full statement shared reads:
“Today, we are heartbroken as we part ways with friends and colleagues at Ascendant Studios – about 45% of our team. This was a painfully difficult, but necessary decision that was not made lightly; nevertheless, we have to make this adjustment now that Immortals of Aveum has shipped. We are supporting those affected in every way we can, including comprehensive severance packages and job placement assistance, as well as support services for those who remain. If your studio is looking for proven UE5 artists and engineers, please reach out and let us know so we can introduce you to some incredibly talented game devs.
I am so proud of what our independent development team has accomplished with Immortals of Aveum. Together we’ve created a new AAA studio, a new IP, on new technology, during an era of our industry when that is exceedingly rare. We’ve poured our passion into Immortals, while wearing our hearts on our sleeves. The studio will continue to work that way as we support the development of this game and our Immortals IP moving forward with future updates and offers.
To my team reading this message, especially those leaving us, thank you from the bottom of my heart for your invaluable contributions to Ascendant’s culture and your tremendous impact on bringing Immortals of Aveum to life. We wish you nothing but success in the next chapter of your careers. Please stay in touch.
Bret Robbins
CEO, Ascendant Studios
— Bret Robbins (@BretRobbins) September 14, 2023
We gave Immortals of Aveum a 9/10 in our review less than a month ago, saying “Immortals of Aveum is a steadfast debut that will assuredly put its creators on the map. It combines strong combat mechanics with an engaging story set in an even more engrossing world to offer up a satisfying and complete experience. While the gear system and some console resolution issues might be off-putting for some, Immortals of Aveum is one of the most pleasant surprises in an already burgeoning year and a spellbinding adventure that’s well worth your time.”
