The recent closure of Possibility Space, the second studio owned by Prytania Media to shut down in recent weeks, has sent shockwaves through the gaming industry. Founded by Jeff Strain, who is well-known for his involvement in creating popular games like Guild Wars and State Of Decay, the studio’s abrupt closure has left many wondering about the circumstances that led to this outcome.
According to reports, the closure of Possibility Space was prompted by employees leaking sensitive information about the company to a journalist. This breach of confidentiality included details about Project Vonnegut, the studio’s publishing partner, and internal financial discussions. Jeff Strain, in a message to staff, expressed shock at the leaks, especially considering that they were done by internal team members who were bound by confidentiality agreements. The revelation of this information led to the cancellation of Vonnegut and ultimately, the closure of the studio.
The sudden closure of Possibility Space has left all staff without a job, with no guarantee of severance pay. Strain mentioned that it would take a few days to calculate the studio’s remaining financial obligations before determining what could be offered in terms of severance. This uncertainty has understandably caused distress among the now-unemployed staff, many of whom have taken to social media to announce their availability for hire.
The closure of Possibility Space comes at a time when the gaming industry is grappling with widespread layoffs and studio closures. The handling of the closure, which left employees without warning and unsure of their financial future, has been met with criticism from industry observers. The lack of transparency and communication from management has raised questions about the leadership of Prytania Media and its other remaining studios.
As the dust settles on the closure of Possibility Space, and former employees begin the search for new opportunities, it serves as a reminder of the precarious nature of the gaming industry. The fallout from the leaks and subsequent closure highlights the importance of maintaining confidentiality and trust within a studio environment. Moving forward, it is crucial for companies to prioritize communication and transparency to avoid similar situations in the future.
The closure of Possibility Space serves as a cautionary tale for the gaming industry, showcasing the devastating impact that leaks and breaches of confidentiality can have on a studio. It is a reminder of the importance of upholding professional standards and fostering a culture of trust and respect within an organization. As the affected employees chart their paths forward, the industry as a whole must learn from this incident to ensure a more secure and stable environment for all stakeholders.
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