Dune Awakening studio faces layoffs after console launch
The gaming world is currently watching Funcom as it navigates a significant chapter of transition, confirming that the studio is entering a new phase of restructuring as it shifts focus away from full production on Dune: Awakening. This move signals a strategic pivot, moving the company from the intense demands of development into a phase of long-term operation and sustained growth.
This operational shift comes as the studio moves into post-launch support for major titles, a transition that inevitably requires adjusting organizational size. Funcom has confirmed that staff cuts will be implemented, acknowledging that the team cannot sustain the size required during the peak production cycle of the game now that development has concluded.
Hand-in-hand with this strategic realignment is a change in executive leadership. Scott Junior, a 25-year veteran of the studio, has been appointed as the new CEO, succeeding Rui Casais, who served as CEO for the past eleven years. This leadership change marks the studio’s evolution as it looks toward the future.
Junior brings a wealth of operational experience, having previously led live operations for several of Funcom’s biggest properties, including Conan Exiles, The Secret World, and Age of Conan, in addition to serving as Executive Producer on Dune: Awakening.
Casais has indicated that this restructuring is a necessary step as Funcom transitions from full production into maintenance and long-term support. While the company is focusing on the future, they have stated that further details regarding the headcount reduction will be shared once the process is fully concluded.
The new strategic focus will center on maximizing the potential and long-term operation of both Dune: Awakening and Conan Exiles, allowing the studio to dedicate its resources to sustaining these beloved titles for years to come.
Buy on Amazon
Credit
