Major Restructuring at Ubisoft RedLynx: Studio Shifts to Mobile and Proposes Up to 60 Layoffs

Ubisoft RedLynx, the Helsinki-based development studio best known for the physics-based racing franchise Trials, is undergoing a significant restructuring that could result in the loss of up to 60 jobs. The move is part of a global effort by parent company Ubisoft to “simplify, reduce costs, and ensure a stronger prioritization and efficiency across the company’s worldwide studio network.”

The Shift to “Small Screens”

The core of the restructuring proposal is a major pivot in the studio’s focus. If the changes are implemented, Ubisoft RedLynx will transition from a multi-platform developer to one “specialized in small screens.” This term is interpreted to mean a focus on mobile games (smartphones and tablets), though some reports suggest it may also include optimizing for PC handhelds and potentially future Nintendo platforms.

• Mobile Focus: The studio is already leading development on two unannounced mobile projects, indicating a clear, long-term commitment to the mobile gaming space.
• Job Cuts: The proposal involves collective negotiations with staff and could lead to a reduction of a maximum of 60 positions, primarily impacting production and administrative teams.

Impact on the Trials Franchise and Studio History

This strategic shift away from multi-platform development casts a shadow over the future of the beloved Trials series. The last mainline entry, Trials Rising, was released in 2019. The restructuring effectively repositions the studio, which has been part of Ubisoft since 2011, as primarily a mobile-focused developer.

Ubisoft RedLynx has historically been a versatile support studio within the company, having contributed to major projects like bringing Star Wars Outlaws to the Nintendo Switch 2 and assisting with the development of the Snowdrop Engine. The studio’s technology team working on the Snowdrop Engine is reportedly not affected by the proposed cuts, suggesting RedLynx may maintain a role in cross-platform technology development for Ubisoft’s mobile endeavors.

The restructuring at RedLynx comes alongside other workforce reductions and “voluntary career transition programs” at other Ubisoft studios, such as Massive Entertainment (known for The Division and Star Wars Outlaws), as the publisher focuses on tightening its core priorities and streamlining its global operations amidst challenging industry trends.