Hi-Rez Studios, the developer behind popular titles like Smite 2 and Paladins, is once again in the spotlight after confirming a new wave of layoffs—this time impacting key senior management roles. This marks the second round of layoffs for the company in 2025, following a previous reduction of around 70 staff in February, which included members of the Smite 1 and Paladins teams. The latest restructuring raises concerns about the studio’s stability and the future of its major projects.
Senior Management Affected by Hi-Rez Studios Layoffs
The layoffs at Hi-Rez Studios have primarily targeted high-level leadership positions rather than the usual development teams. Some of the key names affected include:
Stewart Chisholm, President of Hi-Rez Studios
Travis Brown, Executive Producer
Radar, Senior Developer
Confirmation of these departures came from multiple sources, including former developer ThorDG, who shared details on social media, and Alex Cantatore, head of the Titan Forge team, who confirmed the news in a Reddit post. Stewart Chisholm also acknowledged his exit through a LinkedIn post, stating that the decision had been in discussion for some time and that he is now focusing on new projects.
Reasons Behind the Layoffs
According to statements from Hi-Rez Studios, the decision to cut senior leadership positions was made as part of an effort to “rebalance the ratio of senior management to the smaller development team.” The studio has faced significant challenges in recent years, with mounting pressure to adapt in an evolving industry. While no specific details were given about the financial situation, the layoffs suggest a shift in strategy aimed at streamlining leadership and aligning resources more closely with the current size and focus of the development teams.
Stewart Chisholm, in his personal message, hinted that the departure had been under consideration for some time, suggesting the move was not solely a reactive measure but part of a longer-term internal discussion.
Impact on Smite 2 and Paladins
The layoffs have sparked questions about the future of Hi-Rez’s flagship games, especially Smite 2 and Paladins. With key figures like Travis Brown and Radar no longer at the studio, concerns about the direction and stability of these projects have grown.
While no official statements have been made regarding delays or cancellations, it’s worth noting that Smite 2 and Paladins have already seen turbulence earlier in 2025. The February layoffs affected core teams for both titles, and this latest restructuring further reduces the senior oversight for ongoing development.
Fans are understandably anxious, as the departure of senior leadership could slow down decision-making and affect the vision for these games. However, as of now, Hi-Rez Studios has not confirmed any changes to the release plans or major updates for Smite 2 and Paladins.
A Tough Year for Hi-Rez Studios
2025 has proven to be a difficult year for Hi-Rez Studios. In addition to the February layoffs and the current restructuring, the company has faced challenges in maintaining its player base and navigating the shifting landscape of online gaming. Industry observers note that Hi-Rez’s situation mirrors a broader trend in the gaming industry, where studios are tightening operations and reevaluating leadership roles amid uncertain market conditions.
For now, the studio remains quiet on how these changes will affect ongoing projects, but the gaming community will undoubtedly be keeping a close eye on Hi-Rez’s next moves in what has already been a turbulent year for the developer.