The wave of layoffs in the gaming industry continues, and this time the blow has hit British studio Auroch Digital. Founded in 2010, the developer has announced the layoff of approximately a quarter of its staff—meaning around 15 people out of a total workforce of 60 specialists. Industry observers note that the decision comes amid similar measures at other studios, including Sucker Punch earlier.
Scale of Layoffs and Studio Composition
Auroch Digital is an independent British team operating since 2010, specializing in shooters and action games based on popular franchises. According to the studio itself, the team consists of about 60 people, and the cuts have affected roughly a quarter of that workforce. The developers did not disclose specific reasons in their public statement, but the scale—around 15 positions—makes the event significant for the niche of small studios.
The Fate of Projects After Layoffs
Despite personnel losses, Auroch Digital has promised to continue supporting its key projects. This primarily concerns Warhammer 40,000: Boltgun II and Warhammer Survivors, scheduled for release on November 10, 2026. The studio's portfolio also includes Starship Troopers: Ultimate Bug War. Thus, the company states its intention to bring announced products to players despite the reduced team size.
Context: Boltgun 2 and New Trailer
Alongside the news of layoffs, the studio and publisher Big Fan Games are promoting the Boltgun sequel. In a fresh trailer for Warhammer 40,000: Boltgun 2, a second playable character was unveiled—Battle Sister Nira Weyrat—along with new locations and more dynamic gameplay. According to the developers, the sequel will be a direct continuation of the original: players will battle enemies of the Imperium of Man, while enemy ranks will be reinforced by Bloodletters and demonic Yargs. The sequel was announced back in May, with release expected in 2026; earlier, the spin-off Words of Vengeance received a major update featuring three new levels.
Industry Background
Auroch Digital's decision fits into a broader context: in recent months, other game studios have also reported layoffs, indicating a workforce readjustment across the industry. For small developers dependent on one or two major projects, such personnel changes are especially sensitive as they directly affect delivery schedules and the scope of support for released and upcoming games.
The result is a situation where the studio is trying to honor its commitments to players and the publisher while simultaneously optimizing its staff. Whether this will affect the quality and timelines of Boltgun II and Warhammer Survivors will become clear in the coming months—leading up to the Survivors release on November 10, 2026.
