Released in April this year, the rousing sales of Metroidvania Tales of Kenzera: ZAU were not enough to keep developer Surgent Studios afloat. About three months after launch, a round of layoffs was announced, and for statement On Friday, it was revealed on social media that the studio’s gaming division would be on hiatus while it seeks novel funding.
Submitted by GamesIndustry.bizSurgent Studios, which also produces television and film, announced that it “unfortunately had to notify our team of a layoff.” Despite EA’s publishing support, ZAU failed to find a foothold in the competitive, frankly oversaturated 2D Metroidvania space, despite robust critical reviews and positive player feedback.
Since ZAU’s launch, Surgent has been working difficult to prototype something “darker, edgier and more thrilling” than its previous game, and is looking for a partner to bring it to life. Additionally, ZAU will continue to receive “some exciting updates” in the future.
