Tencent confirms layoffs at Sharkmob London

Tencent has confirmed that a “headcount reduction” has been made at Sharkmob London.

As Pocket Gamer reported, Tencent did not specify how many employees have been affected by the decision.

“Like many studios, Sharkmob has been affected by the difficult conditions in the video game market,” he said. “As a result, Sharkmob has unfortunately had to make a reduction in staff at its London office.”

Pocket Gamer claimed that the “majority” of the team had been fired, however Tencent did not confirm this. GameIndustry.biz has contacted the technology company for clarification.

last month, GameIndustry.biz reported that Sharkmob London had entered a consultation period following Tencent’s decision to reduce its workforce. He also revealed the cancellation of an unannounced game.

“The decision to cancel the game, unfortunately, means that there will be a reduction in the number of people we can support at the London studio,” he said. “This is an incredibly difficult time and we aim to provide support and guidance to those potentially affected.”

Sharkmob’s Malmö studio is unaffected by the layoffs in London and is focusing on its upcoming game Exoborne.

Tencent acquired Sharkmob in 2019 for an undisclosed sum.