LogInAfter a successful run of 16 years, Puny Human, the creator of Galacide and Blade Symphony, is closing down reportedly because a client declined to submit payments.
Image credit: Puny Human
Puny Human, a renowned game developer recognized for creating popular titles like Galacide and Blade Symphony, has made the announcement of its closure after a 16-year journey. As part of the winding-down process, the studio has made the difficult decision to terminate all full-time positions by the end of this year and proceed with the liquidation of its assets. In a gesture of goodwill, Puny Human also plans to sell off certain properties and make the source code of some of its earlier projects available to the public prior to its final closure.
In the farewell letter to "fans and friends" Mike Sanders, the CEO and Studio Manager, wrote that Puny Human's closure comes as a shock, as the company had overcome challenges in the past. He also mentioned that the last three months have been particularly tough, taking a toll on the team. Despite starting the year optimistically with a new game release planned, the market downturn in February and March made it difficult to establish lasting partnerships. Sadly, the company couldn't secure the necessary support to navigate these circumstances.
Sanders thanked each and everyone for supporting their team along the way.
"Those who have played and developed these games with me for so long, mean the world to me. It's hard envisioning a reality where they're not part of my life, and I'm not a sliver of theirs. Thank you so much to the players and fans, the ones that racked up insane playtime, made fan art, created strategy guides, planned tournaments, or even just casually played from time to time. All of you are amazing, and while you may have felt a sense of joy from the games that you've played, know that you've brought an equal amount of happiness to those who developed them.
Know that I want you to be happy with the future of these titles, even after 16 years of supporting them. For right now, though, it's time for Puny Human and I to rest," stated Mike.
Image credit: Puny Human, Blade Symphony
Reportedly, the primary reason for the company's downfall and eventual shutdown was unpaid payments for co-development work.
"Unfortunately, a client refused previously agreed-upon payments, which deprived us of the cash flow to fully pitch our in-progress title and triggered successive failures in our operating income. I take full responsibility for not sufficiently preparing for this outcome," as was written earlier.
Puny Human's closure is the first studio shutdown in October, which adds to the string of layoffs witnessed in the game industry since the summer. This unfortunate event underscores the ongoing challenges faced by developers in a rapidly changing industry and emphasizes the crucial role of financial stability in ensuring the continuity of projects.
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