Toast Interactive Makes the Tough Decision to Reduce Workforce Significantly
By Image courtesy of Toast Interactive.
Toast Interactive has terminated most of its workforce and shut down its office in Gold Coast, Queensland.
In a statement released on social media, co-founders Toni and Richard Eates described the layoffs as a “devastating decision.” Last November, Toast dismissed 10 developers, citing its challenges in “maintaining a large indie team.”
However, the Eates did not specify the reasons behind this latest wave of layoffs. Instead, they mentioned that the remaining staff will adopt a “leaner strategy” to support the studio’s two VR games, Max Mustard and Richie’s Plank Experience.
“We are extremely thankful and proud of all the achievements the team has made,” they stated. “We wish to express our gratitude and recognition to everyone who has been part of our journey at Toast.”
Turbulence in VR games
Toast’s layoffs represent yet another setback for the VR gaming industry. In recent weeks, other studios such as Fast Travel Games and Soul Assembly have also conducted layoffs. Some companies, like Meta and Powerwash Simulator creator FuturLab, have also scaled back their production or returned to the drawing board for the technology.
In February, Toast became the latest studio to eliminate jobs. This week has already seen reported layoffs at Funko Fusion developer 10:10 Games and Swedish studio Liquid Swords. Throughout the month, various developers—including Crytek, Hi-Rez, Unity, and Iron Galaxy—have executed their own layoffs.
About the Author
Contributing Editor, GameDeveloper.com
A native of Kansas City, MO, Justin Carter has contributed to numerous websites, including IGN, Polygon, and SyFy Wire. In addition to his work at Game Developer, his articles can also be found on io9 at Gizmodo. Do not ask him about how much gum he’s had, as the response will likely be more than he’s willing to disclose.