Bold opening: Even beloved studios face hard truths when the market tightens, and Halfbrick’s latest move is a stark example of that reality.
Halfbrick, the Australia-based mobile game studio behind hits like Fruit Ninja and Jetpack Joyride, has announced significant restructuring that includes cutting 41 positions and winding down several international engagements. The company described the changes as a response to a “challenging period for the games industry,” emphasizing that the reductions arise from organizational and strategic priorities rather than individual performance.
In a LinkedIn post, Halfbrick conveyed appreciation for the contributions of the employees affected by the decision, noting that they helped shape the company’s games, supported players, and were integral to the studio. The message added a sincere thank you to those impacted and expressed a commitment to handling the transition with care and respect.
The downsizing comes at a time when Halfbrick recently released its new title, Bluey’s Quest for the Gold Pen, on iOS in December 2025 and on Android in January 2026, with console and PC versions slated for May 28, 2026.
Context from the past surfaces a broader pattern: in 2018, reports surfaced that Halfbrick laid off more than half of its staff, leaving fewer than 30 employees, with those remaining reportedly concentrating on live operations for Fruit Ninja and Jetpack Joyride. This history highlights the ongoing volatility of the games industry, where studios must continually recalibrate to survive.
Question for readers: Do you think such cuts are a necessary reality of a booming but volatile industry, or do they reveal deeper issues in how studios plan for long-term sustainability? Share your thoughts in the comments.
Note: The summarized facts here reflect publicly reported statements from Halfbrick and coverage by MobileGamer.biz and related outlets, and aim to present the main developments clearly while preserving the original meaning.
