Supermassive Games Cuts Staff, Delays Directive 8020 to 2026

Supermassive Games, known for Until Dawn and the Dark Pictures Anthology series, announced plans to cut up to 36 jobs in its latest round of layoffs.

In a social media statement today, the studio also confirmed delays for its anticipated sci-fi horror title Directive 8020, now scheduled for release in early 2026.

The layoffs reflect necessary adjustments to team structure amid an increasingly challenging games industry landscape. This follows similar staffing cuts in March 2024 when approximately 90 employees were let go.

With about 350 employees in 2023, Supermassive has reduced its workforce by roughly one-third over the past year and a half.

"We're realigning our priorities while maintaining focus on upcoming projects," Supermassive stated. "The decision to push Directive 8020's launch to early 2026 allows us to refine the experience based on overwhelmingly positive early feedback. We sincerely appreciate our community's continued support."

Originally revealed in 2022 as part of The Dark Pictures Anthology, Directive 8020 appears to be evolving into a more standalone experience despite its franchise roots.

Official statement from Supermassive Games. pic.twitter.com/Vom1CSGYGs

— Supermassive Games (@SuperMGames) July 22, 2025

The Dark Pictures Anthology debuted in 2019 with Man of Medan, followed by Little Hope (2020), House of Ashes (2021), The Devil in Me (2022), and Switchback VR (2023).

The series' development pace has slowed significantly, with Directive 8020 arriving at least three years after the previous installment. Supermassive indicates gameplay improvements will take priority over franchise continuity elements.

Separately, Supermassive confirmed today's layoffs won't impact Little Nightmares 3, still on track for its October 10 release date.