The recent closure of Possibility Space, the second studio owned by Prytania Media to shut down in recent weeks, has sent shockwaves through the industry. The circumstances surrounding the closure, as detailed by Jeff Strain, the founder of the studio, paints a troubling picture of internal leaks and financial turmoil. However, upon closer inspection, it becomes evident that there are deeper issues at play that require a critical examination.
In a message to staff about the studio’s immediate closure, Strain implied that the outcome was prompted by employees leaking sensitive information to a journalist. This revelation not only led to the cancellation of a major project, Project Vonnegut, but also resulted in the closure of Possibility Space. The leaks included non-public information about the project, details of the company’s financial relationships, and internal discussions. This breach of confidentiality, attributed to current employees by the journalist, was deemed “malicious” by Strain, who took immediate action to address the situation with the studio’s publishing partner. The subsequent loss of confidence from the partner led to the cancellation of the project and, ultimately, the closure of the studio.
Today marks the last day of employment for all Possibility Space staff, with no guarantee of any severance pay. Strain cited the need for time to calculate the studio’s financial obligations before determining what, if any, severance can be offered. This sudden and harsh end to employment has left many in the industry shocked and disappointed. The manner in which the closure was handled, with little regard for the well-being of the employees, has raised serious questions about the leadership at Prytania Media.
Prytania Media has been under scrutiny in recent years, with another studio, Crop Circle Games, closing down in March due to a lack of financial support. Reports of a toxic work environment at Undead Labs, another studio founded by Jeff Strain, have also surfaced in the past. Allegations of sexism, bullying, and burnout within the company have tarnished Strain’s reputation as a leader in the industry. His refusal to address these issues publicly, instead opting to post responses on personal platforms, has only fueled the speculation surrounding his leadership style.
As Possibility Space staff search for new opportunities and the industry reels from yet another studio closure, it is crucial to reflect on the lessons learned from this incident. The need for transparency, accountability, and a supportive work environment cannot be overstated. Employers must prioritize the well-being of their employees and foster a culture of open communication to prevent similar situations from arising in the future. It is only through a collective effort to address these issues that the industry can move forward and thrive.
The closure of Possibility Space serves as a sobering reminder of the challenges facing the gaming industry. It highlights the importance of ethical leadership, employee engagement, and a commitment to upholding professional standards. By learning from this experience and taking proactive measures to prevent similar incidents, we can build a more sustainable and inclusive industry for all stakeholders involved.
Leave a Reply