Crystal Dynamics Lays Off 17 Team Members Studio Behind Tomb Raider Faces Restructuring

Crystal Dynamics Restructures as 17 Employees Are Laid Off

Earlier today, Crystal Dynamics announced that 17 members of their team were laid off in what they described as a necessary but difficult decision. According to the official statement, the move was made to better align with the studio’s business needs and future goals. They were clear in emphasizing that the layoffs were not a reflection of the individuals’ talent or dedication — and that’s something worth repeating. For broader context, see our 2025 gaming-industry layoffs explainer.

These are real people. Artists, programmers, level designers, writers — all working hard to bring games to life. And while the company is offering transition packages and support, that doesn’t soften the emotional weight of it all.

Crystal Dynamics is best known for being the studio behind the Tomb Raider franchise — especially the reboot trilogy that began with Tomb Raider (2013), followed by Rise of the Tomb Raider and Shadow of the Tomb Raider (though the third was co-developed with Eidos-Montréal).

They’ve also worked on:

Legacy of Kain series

Project: Snowblind

Marvel’s Avengers (2020)

They’re currently developing the next Tomb Raider game using Unreal Engine 5, published by Amazon Games.

This news comes during a time when the gaming industry as a whole is experiencing a wave of restructuring and layoffs across multiple studios, indie and AAA alike. It raises questions about the sustainability of how game studios operate and how even the most established names aren’t immune to economic shifts.

Crystal Dynamics closed the statement by reaffirming their commitment to pushing boundaries in game development and noted that this change does not affect their current project plans.

As we report on stories like this, let’s remember that it’s not just “business decisions”—it’s people. Careers, livelihoods, and communities are impacted. Our thoughts go out to everyone affected by this decision, and we hope each one of them lands somewhere they’re truly valued.

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