In a shocking turn of events, indie game publisher Versus Evil has announced its closure, resulting in the layoff of their entire staff. With popular titles like The Banner Saga and Pillars Of Eternity 2 under their belt, Versus Evil had made a name for themselves in the gaming community. However, their acquisition by tinyBuild in November 2021 seems to have marked the beginning of their downfall.
Francis Fincke, the former director of product strategy at Versus Evil, expressed his sadness on LinkedIn, stating that the entire 13-person company was let go right before the start of their Christmas break. The official Versus Evil account on X confirmed the news, leaving fans and employees devastated. Their bittersweet message thanked the community for their support over the past decade and acknowledged the joy they had brought through their indie game releases.
Founded in 2013, Versus Evil had been a promising force in the gaming industry. They published notable titles like Tower Of Guns, Amikrog, and Faeria, earning them a loyal fanbase. However, trouble began brewing as their founder, Steve Escalante, announced his departure from the company. Escalante had been entangled in legal disputes with tinyBuild, accusing them of breaching their agreement during the acquisition of Versus Evil.
In a recent trading update, tinyBuild revealed that they had settled the litigation with Versus Evil. As part of the settlement, tinyBuild agreed to pay $3.5 million in cash to the claimants, in addition to covering the legal costs. While this settlement may bring some closure to the legal battle, it came at the cost of Versus Evil’s existence as an independent publisher.
The closure of Versus Evil is just one among many layoffs that have plagued the video game industry in the past year. According to the tracking website videogamelayoffs.com, an estimated 10,000 staff have been laid off in 2023 alone. These layoffs have had a profound impact on game developers, publishers, and their dedicated communities. As the gaming industry continues to evolve, these turbulent times serve as a reminder of the challenges faced by those striving to create innovative and engaging gaming experiences.
As Versus Evil bids farewell to the gaming scene, its closure raises concerns about the future of indie game publishing. With the closure of Hakjak Studio, developers of the highly anticipated Pigeon Simulator, also attributed to tinyBuild, questions regarding the fate of other independent studios linger. Will the consolidation of power favor larger publishers over smaller ones? Only time will tell how this trend affects the creativity and diversity within the gaming landscape.
In spite of the sadness surrounding Versus Evil’s closure, it is essential to acknowledge the impact they made on the gaming community. Their dedication to bringing indie gems to players, fostering a passionate fanbase, and creating lasting memories will not be forgotten. As the gaming industry mourns this loss, it is crucial for gamers to support and uplift the remaining independent studios, ensuring that their innovative spirit continues to thrive.
The closure of Versus Evil serves as a reminder of the volatile nature of the gaming industry. Companies rise and fall, leaving their mark on the hearts of players and contributors alike. Amidst the uncertainties, it is essential to appreciate the hard work and dedication that goes into creating the games we love. Let us cherish the memories and continue to support the gaming community as it navigates the ever-evolving landscape.
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