# **NetEase Layoffs: Marvel Rivals Developers Dismissed Despite Achievements**
The gaming sector has seen significant layoffs in recent years, with numerous employees being let go. Typically, these job cuts have been linked to financial difficulties or projects that failed to meet expectations. Nonetheless, a recent incident has taken the industry by surprise—NetEase, the studio responsible for the highly acclaimed *Marvel Rivals*, has unexpectedly terminated several staff members.
## **Game Director Shares His Disbelief**
The announcement of the layoffs was met with astonishment, even from those within the organization. *Marvel Rivals* Game Director Thaddeus Sasser conveyed his disappointment in a LinkedIn update, saying:
> *“This industry is truly bizarre. My exceptional, skilled team has just contributed to the creation of an immensely successful new franchise for NetEase Games with Marvel Rivals… and has just been dismissed!”*
Level designer Garry McGee, who was also impacted by the layoffs, voiced similar feelings:
> *“My team recently played a key role in developing and launching Marvel Rivals, which exceeded all our expectations! Sadly, my team has also been let go. These are indeed unusual times for the entire industry.”*
## **How Many Employees Were Affected?**
It is still uncertain precisely how many employees lost their jobs. Reports indicate that the layoffs were confined to NetEase’s U.S. office. According to *80LV*, at least six developers were affected, while other reports suggest that the number may be considerably higher.
## **NetEase’s Official Statement**
Addressing questions from *PC Gamer*, NetEase released a statement clarifying that the action was taken for *“organizational reasons and to enhance development efficiency.”* The company assured fans that the core *Marvel Rivals* team, led by Lead Producer Weicong Wu and Creative Director Guangyun Chen, remains intact.
> *“We are putting in more resources, not less, into the development and growth of this game.”*
## **A Trend of Reductions at NetEase**
While the layoffs at NetEase may appear surprising given *Marvel Rivals’* financial achievements, they seem to be part of a larger pattern. The Chinese publisher has been steadily reducing its footprint in the U.S. market.
In November 2023, another project supported by NetEase, *Jar of Sparks*, ceased development and began seeking a different publisher. The studio was established by Jerry Hook, a former *Halo Infinite* Head of Design, but NetEase’s exit cast doubt over its future.
## **What’s Next for Marvel Rivals?**
In spite of the layoffs, *Marvel Rivals* is set to progress. The latter half of Season 1 is scheduled for release on February 21, introducing balancing updates and new features. Players can expect the addition of Fantastic Four characters The Thing and Human Torch, along with a new map.
## **Conclusion**
The layoffs at NetEase underscore the volatile nature of the gaming industry, where even prosperous projects do not ensure job stability. While *Marvel Rivals* continues to prosper, the abrupt termination of key developers raises questions about the future of game development and job security in the industry.
What are your thoughts on these layoffs? Are you still enjoying *Marvel Rivals*? Share your opinions in the comments!