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Intrepid Studios Shaken by Resignation and Mass Layoffs

2/3/2026

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Summary

Story summary

Steven Sharif, director of Intrepid Studios, resigned after disagreements with the management board, casting uncertainty over Ashes of Creation.
Following his departure, Intrepid Studios issued WARN Act notices to remaining staff, triggering mass layoffs.
Despite a development update livestream on February 13, many developers confirmed layoffs, raising questions about the game's future.
Steam is investigating refund requests tied to the game's negative reception, with reviews calling it a "cash grab".

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Story summary

Steven Sharif, director of Intrepid Studios, resigned after disagreements with the management board, casting uncertainty over Ashes of Creation.
Following his departure, Intrepid Studios issued WARN Act notices to remaining staff, triggering mass layoffs.
Despite a development update livestream on February 13, many developers confirmed layoffs, raising questions about the game's future.
Steam is investigating refund requests tied to the game's negative reception, with reviews calling it a "cash grab".