Respawn Entertainment, the developer behind Apex Legends, has canceled an unannounced incubation project, resulting in layoffs. Insider Gaming initially reported the news, citing a since-removed LinkedIn post from a former production coordinator.
IGN independently confirmed the cancellation. The project, a multiplayer FPS, stemmed from a team previously working on a canceled Star Wars FPS at Respawn. While the exact number of layoffs remains unconfirmed, sources describe it as “small.” At least one individual connected to the project clarified on LinkedIn that their departure was voluntary.
This cancellation follows a pattern of project cancellations, layoffs, and restructuring within EA. In 2023, EA eliminated 50 jobs at BioWare and an unspecified number at Codemasters. A year ago, 670 company-wide layoffs occurred, including the closure of multiple projects, notably the aforementioned Star Wars FPS, impacting around two dozen Respawn employees. Further restructuring at BioWare involved internal developer reassignments and additional, unconfirmed layoffs.
IGN has contacted Electronic Arts for comment.