Swedish publisher and developer Thunderful has unveiled a new “strategic restructuring program,” signaling a significant shift in its business model. Unfortunately, this comes at a heavy cost, with 80-100 internal staff members being laid off as the company pivots away from internal game development.
The restructuring plan emphasizes a stronger focus on third-party publishing, with internal game development projects being discontinued. Thunderful aims to reduce fixed costs and increase flexibility, enabling faster and more diverse game releases.
Martin Walfisz, CEO of Thunderful Group, commented on the decision:
“It is regrettable to announce a second restructuring of Thunderful in less than a year, but we unfortunately see no other alternatives in order to ensure the Group’s long-term sustainability and resilience. The strategic move towards publishing games from external partners allows us to reduce fixed costs, increase flexibility, and better control our cash flow. We have many talented and dedicated employees, and it is with great regret that we are forced to part ways.”
This marks the second major restructuring within a year for Thunderful, raising concerns about the company’s long-term direction. While the shift to third-party publishing could streamline operations, the layoffs reflect the human cost of these corporate changes.
For affected employees, Thunderful has yet to outline specific support measures, but the announcement underscores the turbulent state of the gaming industry, where sustainability often comes at a significant price.
