Splash Damage Reduces Workforce Following Cancellation of Transformers: Reactivate

UK studio Splash Damage is reducing its workforce following the cancellation of the in-development online action title Transformers: Reactivate.

In a post on X, the studio confirmed that this decision has left some employees “at risk of redundancy.”

Transformers: Reactivate was being developed in collaboration with Hasbro. It was revealed in December 2022 during The Game Awards and promoted as a 1-4 player online action game for PC and consoles that would signify “a new era for Splash Damage.”

The reasons for the project’s cancellation remain unclear, but Splash Damage stated that the choice was not taken lightly.

“We will be streamlining to refocus our energies on other initiatives. Regrettably, despite our best efforts, a number of roles within the studio are now potentially at risk of redundancy,” stated the studio.

“This decision was not made easily and it is a challenging time for the studio and our staff. We would like to take a moment to express our gratitude to the team who contributed to Transformers for their commitment and enthusiasm.”

Splash Damage mentioned that Hasbro has been a “supportive partner” throughout the development process and expressed a desire to collaborate again in the future. The studio characterized the cancellation as “painful,” but assured that they will assist affected employees during this transition.

“We are now focused on doing everything possible to support them during this challenging time, just as we are dedicated to taking care of those who will remain with us as we seek to build a stronger Splash Damage for the future,” it added.

This news comes approximately six months after Splash Damage indicated that a “small number” of employees were at risk of layoffs following a business review.

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