Another Round of Layoffs Hits Hi-Rez
Hi-Rez Studios, the developer behind the popular Smite franchise, has reportedly laid off a number of employees this week, with indications that dozens of staffers have been let go across various positions. According to social media updates aggregated in a Reddit megathread, at least 30 employees thus far have publicly confirmed they were affected by these cuts. Many of these staffers were involved in the development or support of the original Smite as well as Smite 2, which is currently in open beta.
A History of Layoffs
This marks the second notable workforce reduction at Hi-Rez since late 2024, when the studio downsized cosmetic and system-related features for the original Smite. CEO Stewart Chisam stated back then that the cuts were part of a plan to ensure Smite 2 would “last into the 2030s.” However, with Smite 2 still in open beta, the exact reasoning behind the new layoffs remains unclear. Notably, Chisam’s X (formerly Twitter) account is no longer active, and no official statement has been issued by Hi-Rez at the time of writing.
Various roles have been impacted by this round of cuts, including:
Producers
Designers
Programmers
Esports Commentators
Some employees suspected the layoffs were imminent, but many expressed frustration, arguing that the timing or rationale didn’t align with the company’s ongoing needs. Industry observer Jake Lucky indicated that the Smite team was especially affected, referencing the “massive” scale of these cuts.
Given the relatively recent layoffs in October 2024, it appears Hi-Rez could be making further strategic adjustments—potentially scaling down support for the original Smite in favor of Smite 2 or another new project. Whether laid-off employees might be reassigned internally or provided severance or transitional assistance remains unconfirmed.
Were you surprised by another wave of layoffs at Hi-Rez, especially given Smite 2 is still in open beta? Share your thoughts on how this might impact the future of Smite and its successor.
