Behavior Interactive Announces Layoffs Amid Declining Demand

On April 22, 2024, Behavior Interactive confirmed layoffs affecting an unspecified number of employees. This decision follows a trend of workforce reductions at the company, which previously laid off up to 95 employees in June 2023 due to a strategic shift to focus on its core strengths. The layoffs were publicly acknowledged through social media posts by former employees, prompting inquiries into the reasons behind the cuts.

Dead by Daylight Behavior Interactive appears to have suffered fresh layoffs, as senior animator announces sudden departure

A spokesperson for Behavior Interactive provided a statement to Game Developer, explaining that the layoffs were a result of declining demand for mobile and casual external development projects. The statement noted, "As we conclude our remaining engagements and do not foresee comparable opportunities in the near term, we have made the decision to part ways with some colleagues." The spokesperson expressed gratitude for the contributions of the affected employees, emphasizing the difficulty of such decisions.

Dead by Daylight Behavior Interactive appears to have suffered fresh layoffs, as senior animator announces sudden departure

The layoffs at Behavior Interactive come after a series of workforce reductions that began in January 2023. The company had previously stated that the earlier layoffs were necessary to concentrate on its historical strengths. Despite these challenges, Behavior Interactive has continued to expand its portfolio, recently acquiring the developer of 7 Days to Die, Fun Pimps, and announcing the upcoming release of Serious Sam: Shatterverse.

Dead by Daylight Behavior Interactive appears to have suffered fresh layoffs, as senior animator announces sudden departure

While the company has framed the layoffs as a strategic necessity, critics argue that frequent workforce reductions may indicate deeper issues within the organization. Concerns have been raised about the sustainability of Behavior Interactive's business model, particularly in light of the declining demand for external development projects.

Dead by Daylight Behavior Interactive appears to have suffered fresh layoffs, as senior animator announces sudden departure

In addition to the layoffs, Behavior Interactive is preparing for a significant event in its gaming portfolio. The company is set to reintroduce a limited-time 2v8 game mode in its popular title, Dead by Daylight, as part of a crossover with the anime Attack on Titan. This mode will be available from April 28 to May 19, 2024, and will feature returning cosmetics and new character outfits, enhancing player engagement during this period.

Dead by Daylight is getting another Attack on Titan crossover, as well as a returning fan-favourite game mode

While Behavior Interactive has confirmed layoffs, the exact number of affected employees remains unclear. Additionally, there is no detailed information on how these layoffs will impact ongoing projects or the company's future direction.

Dead by Daylight Behavior Interactive appears to have suffered fresh layoffs, as senior animator announces sudden departure

• "A portion of Behaviour Interactive’s business has traditionally focused on external development partnerships. In recent months, demand for mobile and casual external development projects has declined." — Behavior Interactive Spokesperson

Dead by Daylight Behavior Interactive appears to have suffered fresh layoffs, as senior animator announces sudden departure

• "Those decisions are never easy, and we are grateful for the contributions of the affected employees, who have helped shape Behaviour and support our partners over the years." — Behavior Interactive Spokesperson

Dead by Daylight Behavior Interactive appears to have suffered fresh layoffs, as senior animator announces sudden departure