Vampire: The Masquerade – Bloodlines 2 Still Coming In October Despite Developer Layoffs, Publisher Says

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In a troubling turn of events, The Chinese Room, the developers behind Vampire: The Masquerade – Bloodlines 2, have recently experienced layoffs, which occurred just under four months before the game is scheduled to be released in October. However, the publisher, Paradox Interactive, has reassured fans that these cuts will not delay the game’s planned release.

It has emerged that The Chinese Room, a UK game studio renowned for its distinctive original games such as Dear Esther and Still Wakes The Deep, is facing a round of layoffs. Although no official statement has been made, it appears that at least nine employees who have recently lost their jobs have shared this news on LinkedIn. The language used in these posts suggests that they are not the only ones affected by this wave of job losses.

When contacting Sumo Digital regarding the recent cuts, it was further learned that several members from their communications team were among those let go. Earlier this year, Sumo Digital disclosed their intention to restructure as part of a strategy to cease work on original projects and instead focus solely on co-development projects. Additionally, a 15% reduction in their global workforce was implemented during an earlier round of layoffs approximately a year ago.

presently, The Chinese Room is nearing completion on their long-anticipated follow-up, Bloodlines 2. Unfortunately, this project has experienced several delays and interruptions thus far. Most recently, the release date was pushed back to October. According to the game’s executive producer, while the game has been finished, additional work is required to eliminate bugs and enhance its overall stability.

In 2021, The Chinese Room assumed control over the project as Paradox Interactive handed off the game’s development from its initial creator, Hardsuit Labs. Insiders suggest that the game came close to being canceled during the studio changeover.

Despite some staff reductions at The Chinese Room, it’s confirmed that Vampire: The Masquerade – Bloodlines 2 will proceed as planned and be released in October, according to a representative from Paradox Interactive. The spokesperson added that they wish the affected team members all the best of luck in their future endeavors.

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2025-06-25 13:11