The sinking ship known as Embracer is still fighting to save itself from total disaster, now about 6 months after completing a massive restructuring plan that saw more than 900 people lose their jobs and several studios like Volition close . More jobs were reportedly lost just today.
But now it seems that Free Radical, the studio behind Timesplitters, is on the chopping block and will likely shut down by December 11, 2023.
Earlier this month, VGC reported that Embracer was considering closing Free Radical. VGC said today that company sources have received an email from Embracer CEO Lars Wingefors, in which he writes: “While we go through the consultation process and face the possible closure of Free Radical Design on December 11, 2023, I want to express my appreciation for your commitment and the excellent work you have done and continue to do.”
“This is a difficult time for all of us, but especially for you, and our goal is to support you as much as we can during this transition.”
Embracer resurrected Free Radical, which was shut down in 2014, just two years ago with the intention of bringing back the Timesplitters. Since then, we haven’t heard much about the project.
Free Radical is based in Nottingham and UK law states that Embracer must consult with Free Radical for at least 30 days to see if there are any other options, including selling the company. This means that someone could theoretically jump in and save the day by buying Free Radical from Embracer.
However, it appears that Free Radical staff want to abandon ship before it’s too late. More than half of the 100 employees listed on LinkedIn advertise themselves as looking for new employment opportunities.
Ironically, Free Radical’s website actually advertises the company as an employer. I would advise against applying.