Embracer Reduced Workforce by 1,800 Employees Last Year

Oh man, where do I even start? So, imagine this: Embracer Group, big shot European gaming firm, right? Yeah, them. They somehow ended up 1,800 employees lighter by the time their last financial year wrapped up. Kind of wild, I know.

Alright, so here’s the thing: their annual report spilled the beans (thanks, Game Developer, for pointing it out). They had, like, 1,857 fewer folks on the payroll by the end of the 24/25 fiscal year compared to the year before. That’s a big chunk of people just gone. And oh, it wasn’t their first rodeo either. The previous year saw them shedding around 1,400 jobs too. Yikes.

But hang on a sec—it’s not all about layoffs. Embracer’s been cleaning house in another way, too. They sold off studios like Gearbox and Saber Interactive. Random side thought: does anyone remember the last time Gearbox did anything major? Eh, maybe it’s just me.

Anyway, apparently the whole shebang is part of Embracer’s mega “restructuring” deal. I heard something about a multi-billion dollar investment from Saudi Arabia’s Savvy Group that just evaporated. Poof, gone. Who knows what really happened there?

Oh, and the chaos doesn’t stop. Embracer’s splitting into three separate companies. Like, I know businesses restructure or whatever, but three separate entities? That’s some next-level stuff. Also, plot twist! The founder and CEO, Lars Wingefors, is stepping down from being all CEO-ish. Square Enix vet, Phil Rogers, is taking over. Seems to me like things are about to get interesting.

Lars did leave a heartfelt—or was it chill?—note for shareholders. He’s been tight with Phil, so he’s optimistic. The man’s ready to shift gears, maybe focus on big strategies and cool executive chair stuff. Oh, and he tossed in some appreciation for all the talented folks over the years. Kind of touching, right? But who knows, maybe he’s just being diplomatic.

Anyway, that’s the scoop. Embracer is definitely up to something, and I can’t help but wonder what’s next on this rollercoaster.