The Outsiders Studio, Developers of 'Metal: Hellsinger,' Announces Closure

The Outsiders, the creative force behind the highly praised rhythm shooter 'Metal: Hellsinger,' has announced its dissolution. This development comes after a decade of operation and is directly linked to recent workforce reductions implemented by its parent company, Funcom, affecting their Stockholm-based operations. Despite achieving critical acclaim with their latest title, the studio's journey culminates in this closure, prompting its founder to reflect on past successes and hint at future possibilities.

This marks a significant moment for the gaming industry, as a studio known for its innovative approach to game development ceases operations. The team, which previously overcame the cancellation of 'Darkborn' to deliver a successful title, now faces new challenges. While the current situation is undoubtedly difficult for those affected by the layoffs, there remains a glimmer of hope for the collective talent to re-emerge in a new form, carrying forward their dedication to game creation.

The Outsiders Studio Shuts Down Amidst Funcom Layoffs

The Outsiders, the development team responsible for the rhythm shooter 'Metal: Hellsinger,' has announced its closure after a decade in operation. This unfortunate development is a direct consequence of recent layoffs enacted by its parent company, Funcom, which have affected their Stockholm-based employees. Studio founder David Goldfarb confirmed the news, highlighting that the team, having previously overcome the cancellation of 'Darkborn,' is now facing a new and significant challenge. The studio's closure, despite the success of 'Metal: Hellsinger,' underscores the volatile nature of the gaming industry and the broader impact of corporate restructuring decisions on creative teams. The emotional toll of these events is palpable, as team members grapple with the sudden end of their collective endeavor.

David Goldfarb, the studio's creative director and founder, conveyed the news, noting that the entire team at The Outsiders and Funcom Stockholm has been impacted by the recent organizational changes within Funcom. He reflected on the studio's journey, particularly referencing their resilience after the cancellation of 'Darkborn,' which ultimately led to the creation of 'Metal: Hellsinger.' This acclaimed title, launched in 2022, garnered significant positive reception, making the studio's closure even more poignant. Despite the current setback, Goldfarb expressed a determination to continue their work in some new iteration, suggesting that the team's creative spirit and dedication to game development remain unbroken, even as they navigate this period of transition and uncertainty.

The Legacy and Future Aspirations of a Resilient Team

The closure of The Outsiders studio, a decade after its establishment, represents a poignant moment for the gaming community, especially given the team's resilience. Having previously navigated the challenging cancellation of 'Darkborn,' the studio found renewed purpose in developing 'Metal: Hellsinger,' a rhythm shooter that achieved considerable success upon its release. This journey highlights the team's enduring commitment and creative spirit, even in the face of adversity. The studio's achievements, particularly with 'Metal: Hellsinger,' underscore their innovative approach and ability to deliver engaging gaming experiences. Despite the current circumstances, the founder's message conveys a hopeful outlook, hinting at future endeavors and the team's unwavering passion for creating games.

The team at The Outsiders had demonstrated remarkable tenacity, rebounding from the early setback of 'Darkborn's' shelving to launch 'Metal: Hellsinger' with significant critical and commercial success. This rhythm shooter, released in 2022, holds an "overwhelmingly positive" rating on Steam, a testament to the studio's talent and hard work. Goldfarb's statement regarding the closure emphasized the hope they held for their next project, aspiring to surpass their previous achievements. While acknowledging the disappointment of the present situation, he articulated a strong resolve for the team to persist and explore new avenues, suggesting that this closure is not an end but a transformation. This commitment to continuity and evolution speaks volumes about the creative drive that defines the individuals within the studio.