New AAA game developer Deviation Games has announced its closure, marking the end of a promising venture in the gaming industry. The studio, founded in 2020 by Jason Blundell and Dave Anthony, renowned for their work on the Call of Duty: Black Ops franchise, had garnered attention with its ambitious plans. However, challenges arose, leading to the unfortunate decision to shut down.

Initially, the studio had over 100 employees and had secured a deal with PlayStation to develop an original AAA IP. The collaboration with PlayStation was highly anticipated, with the potential to bring forth groundbreaking content. Despite the initial optimism, the project encountered setbacks, including the departure of key figures such as Jason Blundell in 2022. Subsequently, the studio underwent significant layoffs in May of the following year.

Chief HR and operations officer Kriste Stull expressed gratitude to the entire team, acknowledging their hard work and dedication. Stull also extended an invitation to the wider video game industry, announcing a networking event for companies and studios interested in hiring former Deviation Games employees.

In a previous interview with GamesIndustry.biz, Dave Anthony had spoken about the partnership with PlayStation, highlighting the unprecedented support and resources they had received. The collaboration was expected to provide Deviation Games with the freedom to create and innovate fearlessly, setting the stage for a new era in game development.

The closure of Deviation Games serves as a reminder of the challenges within the gaming industry, where even experienced developers face obstacles. The impact of this decision reverberates not only within the studio but also across the broader gaming community, as talented individuals seek new opportunities and companies evaluate the shifting landscape.