"I waited until today to share this because I wanted to be sure I was communicating from a place of clarity.
Intrepid Studios has shut down in a way that I did not expect. What I can share is what I experienced.
On January 28, toward the end of the workday, I was informed that we would be laying off 100 developers. I was devastated - these are hardworking people who were going to lose their jobs. Still, I believed it was something we could face together and find a path forward from.
On January 29, I shared this information confidentially with my Game Services team. I told them that changes were coming, that I did not yet know who would be affected, and that I wished I had more certainty to offer. I could not live with myself if I did not give them advance notice - these are people who deserve to be treated like human beings. By the end of that day, I received confirmation of which people on my team would be impacted.
On January 30, I spoke individually with each of my team members to let them know whether they were affected, so they could begin planning and preparing. Those who were staying began working on ways to move forward. Even those who knew they would be leaving offered their support - showing the grace, professionalism, and strength that defined our Game Services team.
On January 31, we were all informed via a confusing email that we would be laid off, along with a WARN notice. It is still shocking. The entire studio gathered to try to understand what had happened and what it meant for our future.
In the end, none of us are receiving our final paychecks, the 60 days notice and pay outlined under the WARN Act, PTO payouts, or other compensation owed.
What matters most to me now are the people - both the players and developers.
To the players: the entire development team was working extremely hard, pulling long hours, and wishes with all our hearts that we could give you Ashes of Creation. There are no words that fully express how sorry we are that this journey ended this way. You should pursue a refund, you deserve it.
To my colleagues: this team is truly a family. The culture we built together is something I have never experienced anywhere else. In the midst of heartbreak and uncertainty, we have come together to review resumes, help with portfolios, share job leads, and support one another emotionally. That says everything about who we are as people.
For hiring managers and recruiters: we will be hosting a job fair for former Intrepid Studios employees. These are extraordinary professionals who would be amazing assets to any team. If you are interested in participating, we would be deeply grateful if you would fill out the participation form, so that we can coordinate with you.
I wish I had better news. I wish our story had ended differently."
Truly hope the team sues Intrepid for every penny they owe their employees :( This is illegal.
