Observed Signal · Nov 2, 2026 · Layoffs · Source: GamesIndustry.biz · Impact: 2/5 · Sentiment: Negative
Schell Games Announces Second Round of Layoffs in 2026
Schell Games, the Pittsburgh-based VR developer known for 'I Expect You To Die' and co-developing 'Among Us VR', has announced a second round of layoffs this year. In a statement on LinkedIn, the company cited the challenging time in the game industry as the reason, stating it was necessary to lay off a significant number of employees to ensure a sustainable future. The affected roles span engineering, art, design, sound, marketing, IT support, research, and QA. The exact number of impacted employees was not disclosed. This follows a previous layoff in August, marking the first time the studio reduced staff since its founding in 2002. CEO Jesse Schell had previously advocated for stability to avoid layoffs, but this second reduction indicates continued financial pressure on the studio.
Layoffs at a VR game developer are relevant to the broader gaming and interactive entertainment sector, but not directly to AdTech, MarTech, or advertising technology infrastructure. The news is a specific company event with limited impact on the advertising industry.
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Key Takeaways & Evidence Grounding
- Schell Games announced a second round of layoffs in 2026.
- The layoffs affect roles in engineering, art, design, sound, marketing, IT support, research, and QA.
- The company did not disclose the number of employees impacted.
- This follows a previous layoff in August 2026, the first in the studio's history.
- CEO Jesse Schell had previously emphasized stability to avoid layoffs.
Related Market Signals & Shifts
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