Dumb Ways to Die developer PlaySide Studios has confirmed an undisclosed number of workers will be laid off during an “operational restructure.”
The news comes months after the company reported record annual revenue of $64.6 million AUD ($40.9 million USD).
In a note to investors, the Australian studio said the restructure was triggered by delays in winning work-for-hire contacts. The company explained it remains confident of winning new contract work, but noted the timing of those prospective deals “remains uncertain.”
It claimed the restructure won’t impact progress on its original console and PC titles such as MOUSE: P.I. for Hire. It also committed to supporting existing work-for-hire and publishing partners on their active projects.
Notably, PlaySide stated the proposed redundancies are expected to deliver cost savings of $4 million AUD to $5 million AUD ($2.5M to $3.2M USD) per annum. It will also incur an upfront restructuring cost of $1.5 million AUD ($950,000 USD).
PlaySide CEO Benn Skender, who only stepped into the role in March 2025, said the company will be offering outplacement support and counseling services to employees who lose their jobs.
He stated the company must now reflect on its “obligation to employees and shareholders” to ensure it can implement a more resilient business model.
“We will continue to look for ways to convert successful Original IP launches into a stronger balance sheet and a more valuable business,” he added.
Over 70 games co-developed at PlaySide
PlaySide was founded in 2011 and has worked on over 70 titles in tandem with major partners such as Activision Blizzard, Meta, Netflix Games and Take Two Interactive.
In its 2024 fiscal report, PlaySide billed itself as the “largest game development studio in Australia” with 360 employees—including 220 working from three offices spread across Melbourne and the Gold Coast.
Last year, the company signed a long-term licensing deal with Warner Bros to develop two titles using the Game of Thrones IP. It also penned an 18 month work-for-hire contract extension and expansion with Meta.
At the time, PlaySide said it was focused on expanding its portfolio of original properties. It planned to support those aspirations by providing end-to-end development services to major studios, entertainment and technology companies.
Game Developer has reached out to PlaySide for comment.
