Heart Machine Lays Off Staff After Publisher Deal Collapse
Indie developer Heart Machine has laid off nearly all of its staff. This comes after a publisher canceled an unannounced game, its primary income source. The studio's future survival is now uncertain following this devastating setback.
Coverage across 9 outlets
Hyper Light Breaker developer Heart Machine lays off ‘nearly everyone at the studio’
Developer Heart Machine has laid off nearly all of its staff after a publisher canceled an unannounced title, which was the studio's primary source of income. Studio founder Alx Preston confirmed the devastating news, stating that affected employees are receiving support and job placement assistance. The studio, known for Hyper Light Drifter and Solar Ash, has fallen victim to a lack of publisher funding.
Hyper Light Drifter developer Heart Machine lays off majority of staff, risks closure
Heart Machine, the studio behind Hyper Light Drifter, has laid off the majority of its staff after a publisher rescinded funding for an unannounced title. Studio founder Alx Preston described the situation as devastating and expressed uncertainty about the studio's future survival amidst a challenging industry for smaller developers.
"Nearly everyone" laid off at Hyper Light Drifter devs Heart Machine after publisher drops unannounced game
Heart Machine, the studio behind Hyper Light Drifter, has laid off nearly all of its staff after an unnamed publisher withdrew funding for an unannounced game. Studio founder Alx Preston confirmed the devastating cuts on LinkedIn, stating that the studio's survival is now precarious. This follows previous issues with Hyper Light Breaker and mixed reviews for Possessor(s), highlighting a challenging period for the games industry.
Hyper Light Drifter developer Heart Machine has laid off the majority of staff
Indie studio Heart Machine has laid off the majority of its staff after a publisher pulled funding for an unannounced title. Studio founder Alex Preston announced the devastating news on LinkedIn, stating that the loss of this key income has made the studio's survival uncertain. This follows previous layoffs in November 2024 and October 2025, with the studio's earlier title, Hyper Light Breaker, being cut before it left early access.
Heart Machine faces possible closure after publishing deal falls through; majority of staff laid off
Heart Machine, the developer behind Hyper Light Drifter, is facing potential closure after a crucial publishing deal fell through, leading to the layoff of most of its staff. Studio head Alx Preston described the situation as devastating and is seeking new opportunities for the talented individuals affected. This marks the third round of layoffs for the studio in under three years, highlighting the challenging economic climate for independent game developers.
Heart Machine Has Laid Off “Nearly Everyone”, Founder Unsure of Studio’s Survival
Heart Machine, the studio behind Hyper Light Drifter, has laid off nearly all of its staff after a publisher canceled an unannounced project. Studio founder Alx Preston expressed devastation and uncertainty about the company's future survival, while also seeking roles for the talented individuals affected. This follows previous layoffs in 2025 and the critical reception of Hyper Light Breaker.
Hyper Light Drifter dev lays off "nearly everyone at the studio" after publisher backs out of new game: "I'm not sure yet how or if Heart Machine survives"
Indie studio Heart Machine has laid off nearly all of its staff after its publisher unexpectedly withdrew funding for its next unannounced game. Studio founder Alx Preston stated that the future of the company is uncertain, and they are seeking roles for the displaced developers. The studio, known for Hyper Light Drifter, has faced challenges with recent titles like Hyper Light Breaker and Possessor(s).
Hyper Light studio Heart Machine lays off 'nearly everyone' after publisher deal for unannounced game falls…
Heart Machine, the developer behind Hyper Light Drifter, has laid off nearly its entire staff after a publisher deal for an unannounced game fell through. Studio founder Alx Preston described the situation as devastating, stating that the loss of this key income has forced the studio to let go of most employees. The studio will continue to seek a path forward, but its survival is uncertain.
Hyper Light Drifter developer on brink of shutdown after publisher deal falls through
Heart Machine, the developer behind Hyper Light Drifter, is reportedly on the brink of shutting down after a publisher withdrew funding for an unannounced project. Studio founder Alx Preston indicated that most employees have been laid off due to the financial setback. This follows a previous wind-down of development for Hyper Light Breaker and substantial layoffs.
