The Story Behind the Numbers
The report originates from French journalist Gauthier Andrés, co-founder of Origami, who revealed that Virtuos is laying off around 300 employees, roughly 7% of its global workforce. Approximately 200 roles were cut in China, with additional layoffs impacting studios in France, the U.S., and Europe.
The layoffs come just months after Virtuos co-developed Oblivion Remastered, one of 2025’s top-selling titles. Internally, developers had reportedly been “put to the test” during its development, without raises, bonuses, or long-term support.
For a deeper look at the broader industry impact, check out our full editorial:
The Impact of Gaming Industry Layoffs in 2025.
The gates of Oblivion reopened in 2025 — but for many Virtuos developers, it marked the end rather than a new beginning.
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Sources also say workers faced growing pressure to adopt AI tools, prompting protests and even strikes at the Lyon studio. This shift, seen across the industry, has made already-precarious jobs feel replaceable.
Virtuos has not issued an official statement at the time of writing.
Multiple outlets — including PC Gamer, Engadget, and The Gamer — have confirmed the story.
Oblivion may have been remastered, but for many of its creators, this feels more like erasure.
Written by Ronny Fiksdahl, Founder & Editor-in-Chief at Fix Gaming Channel.
Send interview pitches, corrections, tips, or developer stories to contact@fixgamingchannel.com.
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