Full Breakdown
Fishlabs Announces New Workforce Reductions Amid Shifting Project Needs
By Drooid · · How we work
Recent Layoffs at Fishlabs
Fishlabs, the German game developer owned by Plaion, disclosed that it is reducing staff in its development and support divisions. Fishlabs added that the reductions do not reflect the talent or performance of the departing staff and that the company will provide assistance as they transition out.
Background and Prior Restructuring
Founded in 2004 by Michael Schade and Christian Lohr, Fishlabs was acquired by Plaion (formerly Koch Media) in 2013 after filing for the equivalent of bankruptcy, an event that led to the termination of 25 positions. The founders left shortly thereafter and launched Rockfish Games in 2014, the studio behind the Everspace series. In 2023, Fishlabs participated in Embracer Group’s broader restructuring program, cutting 50 roles that year. The current layoffs follow that pattern of periodic workforce adjustments within Embracer’s portfolio.
Impact on Employees and Ongoing Projects
The announcement emphasizes gratitude toward the affected colleagues and pledges continued support during their departure. Fishlabs also reaffirmed its commitment to existing partner projects and to the remaining internal teams, indicating that the primary focus for the near term is assisting those who are leaving while maintaining development momentum on current titles.
Industry Context and Future Outlook
The layoffs occur as the broader German games sector receives increased public funding; earlier this year, Rockfish Games secured an €8 million grant from the German government’s expanded €125 million games fund to develop the next Everspace shooter. While Fishlabs’ immediate priority is workforce transition, the company’s ongoing involvement in partner projects and its position within Embracer’s portfolio suggest it will continue to contribute to the European gaming ecosystem despite the recent reductions.