By Additional dismal statistics arise
Bandai Namco Studios has reportedly cut its workforce by more than 100 individuals over the past year, according to a report by Automaton.
The studio, recognized for Switch titles such as New Pokémon Snap, Taiko no Tatsujin: Drum ‘n’ Fun!, and the forthcoming Pac-Man game Shadow Labyrinth, previously disclosed in a company report on April 1, 2024, that its workforce consisted of 1,294 employees. However, the Japan Pension Service database lists this figure at 1,177 as of February 4, 2025.
This information follows earlier reports in 2024 that Bandai Namco had halted several projects, including one commissioned by Nintendo.
According to an initial article from Bloomberg, the company allegedly utilized ‘oidashibeya’ – expulsion rooms – to pressure 200 employees into voluntary resignations. In essence, they were given trivial tasks aimed at demotivating them. Many employees would instead take this opportunity to search for new employment elsewhere.
While this is reportedly a traditional Japanese method to streamline workforce numbers, Bandai Namco denied the accusation. It remains uncertain whether the 100+ employees who have recently departed did so “voluntarily,” or if they were let go with severance packages.
What are your thoughts on Bandai Namco’s workforce reductions? Do you believe they employed ‘oidashibeya’ to compel employees to resign? Share your opinion with a comment.
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Nintendo Life’s resident horror enthusiast, when he is not immersed in Resident Evil and Silent Hill lore, Ollie enjoys diving into a good horror novel while relishing a steaming cup of tea. He also appreciates long walks and listens to a wide range of music from TOOL to Chuck Berry.