RuneScape maker Jagex has said that the wave of layoffs at the company are "unrelated" to Project Zanaris, which was axed recently. 

In a statement to GI.biz, the firm emphasised that the job cuts announced earlier this week are primarily within non-development or player-facing roles, though some developers – including beloved staff like Mod Timbo – appear to have left. 

Project Zanaris was an effort to develop community servers for Old School RuneScape. It was announced during the summer of 2024 and cancelled in a blog post earlier this month. 

"As part of our strategy to build the best experiences for players and grow the RuneScape community, we have proposed changes to our operational structure," a Jagex rep said.

"These adjustments are designed to reduce complexity, increase agility, and ensure we are fully focused on the areas that matter most — our games, our players, and our future.

"The vast majority of proposed role reductions are within non-game development and non-player-facing functions, such as operations and administrative support. Our intention is to protect and strengthen the teams directly responsible for delivering value to players.

"We recognise that any change of this nature is difficult, and we are committed to supporting all impacted employees throughout the transition." 

Disclaimer: Alex Calvin is a freelance writer that has worked with Jagex in the past.