Heart Machine Announces Layoffs and Ceases Development on Hyper Light Breaker

Heart Machine Announces Layoffs and Project Shutdown

Heart Machine, the renowned studio behind acclaimed titles such as Solar Ash and Hyper Light Drifter, has made a difficult announcement regarding layoffs and project cessation. According to reports from Game Developer and Heart Machine’s official X account, the studio will part ways with an unspecified number of developers, impacting the team dedicated to Hyper Light Breaker.

End of Development for Hyper Light Breaker

The development of Hyper Light Breaker, currently in early access, is set to conclude next year. The studio has indicated that there will be no further updates after the final release in January 2026. Heart Machine stated, “We still have something coming in January. We plan to deliver something meaningful and as polished and complete as we can, given our current circumstances.”

This conclusion does not align with the studio’s initial vision for the game, as the anticipated version 1.0 remains unfulfilled. However, the studio acknowledges that this path was the only viable option given the current, challenging landscape: “While this path will include a conclusion on the project, it reflects broader forces beyond our control, including shifts in funding, corporate consolidation, and the uncertain environment many small studios like us are navigating today.”

We’ve joined the ranks of game studios posting black background white text letters about layoffs 💔 pic.twitter.com/oO2zotKwd2

— Heart Machine Official (@HeartMachineHQ) October 9, 2025

Focus on New Projects

Despite these setbacks, Heart Machine is committed to the ongoing development of other titles, particularly the upcoming Possessor(s), scheduled for release on PS5 and PC on November 11, 2025. The studio has reassured the community that the layoffs have not affected the development team for Possessor(s). However, it is critical to note the emotional impact on the remaining team members who have witnessed colleagues losing their jobs and the cancellation of an entire project.

Hyper Light Breaker originally entered early access on January 14, 2025, and it is anticipated that the final update will coincide with its one-year milestone. Going forward, the hope remains that Possessor(s) will enjoy a more positive trajectory as Heart Machine navigates these tumultuous waters.

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