Irish developer Romero Games has lost funding for an in-development project.
In a post on BlueSky, studio boss Brenda Romero wrote that its project was one of many that had lost funding seemingly overnight. She added that the developer had done everything required of it during the game's creation.
As for the studio, it appears that Romero Games is preparing to make layoffs or other significant changes. Layoffs aren't explicitly stated but it very much appear on the horizon.
Romero Games was working on a new first-person shooter title built in Unreal Engine 5. This project was expanded in July 2022 when it announced it had received backing from a "major publisher". The identity of said publisher is not officially known, but there has been speculation online – and even outright claims from former staff – that Microsoft was the mysterious backer. The Romero situation follows Xbox closing down The Initiative and laying off a lot of staff.
"We have some difficult news to share. Last night, we learned that our publisher has cancelled funding for our game along with several other unannounced projects at other studios," Romero wrote.
"This was a strategic decision made at a high level within the publisher, well above our visibility or control. We deeply wish there had been something, anything, we could have done to prevent this outcome.
"This absolutely isn't a reflection of our team's work, performance, or the quality of the project itself. We hit every milestone on time, every time, consistently received high praise, and easily passed all our internal gates. We are incredibly proud of the work being done, and of the talented team behind it. The best we've worked with.
"We're currently evaluating next steps and working quickly to support our team. Many of us have worked together for more than a decade, some for over 20 years. It's an extremely difficult day, and we're heartbroken that it's come to this. If you know of any opportunities or ways you can help our incredible team, please reach out. Thank you to everyone who's offered support and kindness and encouragement during this difficult time."
