Today Disney took the ax to LucasArts’ development studio, laying off approximately 150 staff personnel in order to change up their video game business model and focus more on licensing. For those folks that were let go today, we are extremely sorry to hear the news, and wish you all the best moving forward. For gamers out there who were looking forward to Star Wars 1313 and Star Wars: First Assault, you may want to consider changing your pre-order to different games, because they are officially “on hold”. Hit the link below for the official LucasArts press statement.
LucasArts Lays Off Staff; Licensing Is the New Business Plan
Earlier today LucasArts released an official statement in response to the lay offs, as well as to where the company is heading:
“After evaluating our position in the games market, we’ve decided to shift LucasArts from an internal development to a licensing model, minimizing the company’s risk while achieving a broader portfolio of quality Star Wars games. As a result of this change, we’ve had layoffs across the organization. We are incredibly appreciative and proud of the talented teams who have been developing our new titles.”
To my worried Star Wars gamers out there who are concerned, don’t be; Star Wars games will still be coming out, and with regularity.
As usual, MTF.