Ex-Sony Exec Blames Economic Realities for 22,000 Gaming Layoffs, Faces Backlash for 'Elitist' Remarks
September 11, 2024By May 2024, the number of job losses in the gaming sector had surpassed 11,500, reflecting a troubling trend of workforce reductions.
Notably, recent layoffs included half of Rocksteady's Q&A team, following the poor performance of 'Suicide Squad: Kill the Justice League.'
Deering's comments have sparked significant backlash on social media, with critics labeling his perspective as elitist and calling for greater unionization within the industry.
He attributed the layoffs to economic realities, such as poor financial performance of games and declining consumer spending, rather than corporate greed.
Chris Deering, the former president of Sony Computer Entertainment Europe, recently made controversial remarks during a podcast regarding the ongoing layoffs in the gaming industry.
This year has been particularly challenging for the gaming sector, with over 22,000 layoffs reported between January 2023 and June 2024, despite increasing revenue.
While acknowledging that greed exists in the industry, Deering emphasized that the primary drivers of layoffs are financial challenges and market conditions.
His suggestions for laid-off workers to drive for Uber or take vacations were criticized as tone-deaf, reflecting a disconnect from the financial struggles many are facing.
The gaming industry continues to grapple with significant job losses, with over 20,000 layoffs reported in the past two years, affecting major companies like Microsoft and Sony.
Deering noted that many laid-off employees likely received decent severance packages, which could assist them during their transition.
Despite the current difficulties, Deering expressed optimism for those affected, suggesting they could find alternative employment and return to the industry when conditions improve.
Deering's remarks highlight broader issues within the gaming industry, underscoring the need for systemic changes to prevent future layoffs.
Summary based on 11 sources
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Sources
Insider • Sep 11, 2024
Former Sony exec Chris Deering advised laid-off staff to take a breakGameSpot • Sep 10, 2024
Former Sony Exec Claims That Industry Layoffs Aren't Because Of Corporate Greed