10 Chambers announces job cuts in Den of Wolves restructuring

Swedish GTFO developer cuts "large number" of staff including co-founders to refocus on upcoming heist game Den of Wolves. Restructuring follows industry-wide layoffs hitting studios amid challenging market conditions.

10 Chambers has confirmed significant job cuts affecting a "large number" of employees, including several co-founders, according to a statement from the Swedish developer. The GTFO studio said the restructuring is necessary to ensure its upcoming heist game Den of Wolves "becomes the game it deserves to be".

A difficult but strategic decision

"We can confirm that we're taking a hard look at how we work and how the studio is set up, so Den of Wolves can become the game it deserves to be," a 10 Chambers spokesperson told VGC. The cuts represent what the company described as a "significant restructuring of the studio" that will impact numerous roles across the organisation.

The timing aligns with a wave of industry-wide layoffs that have affected major publishers and independent studios alike. Recent high-profile restructuring has hit companies from major publishers to emerging studios, as developers navigate challenging market conditions and shifting investment priorities.

"We recognize these changes are difficult, and we're approaching them thoughtfully," the company added. "Out of respect for everyone involved, we won't comment on individual situations. We remain focused on the vision of Den of Wolves."

Leadership remains committed

Despite the significant changes, 10 Chambers confirmed that co-founders Ulf Anderson and Simon Viklund "remain fully committed to the game and to leading the studio forward." Both figures were instrumental in founding the company in 2015 after leaving their roles as designers on the Payday series.

However, the restructuring has affected other founding members. Earlier this week, co-founder Hjalmar Vikström announced his departure from the company, though he did not mention the broader restructuring in his announcement. The company has not disclosed which other co-founders were impacted by the cuts.

"When we have more concrete news to share, we'll do it through our official channels," the spokesperson said, suggesting further announcements about Den of Wolves development may follow once the restructuring is complete.

From GTFO success to Tencent backing

10 Chambers built its reputation on the success of GTFO, a challenging co-operative shooter that gained a dedicated following after its release. The game's popularity led to Chinese giant Tencent acquiring a major stake in the studio in 2020, providing financial backing for future projects.

Since 2023, Den of Wolves has been the studio's primary focus, with the heist-themed game appearing at consecutive The Game Awards shows. The project even featured in a drone show over Los Angeles, demonstrating the company's ambitions for the title. Last year, 10 Chambers announced plans for "Do the Game," a documentary series following Den of Wolves' development process.

The studio has not yet announced a release date for Den of Wolves, and the current restructuring suggests development priorities may be shifting as the project moves forward.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why did 10 Chambers announce job cuts?

10 Chambers announced job cuts as part of a significant restructuring to ensure Den of Wolves becomes the game it deserves to be, according to the company's statement.

Which games are developed by 10 Chambers?

10 Chambers developed the co-op shooter GTFO and is currently working on Den of Wolves, an upcoming heist-themed game.

Are the founders still involved with 10 Chambers?

Ulf Anderson and Simon Viklund remain fully committed to leading 10 Chambers, though some co-founders were impacted by the restructuring, and Hjalmar Vikström recently left the company.