British indie studio Bithell Games has laid off most of its full-time team just weeks after launching its time-loop action title Tron: Catalyst, following its inability to secure a new major project.
Studio lead Mike Bithell confirmed the move in a social media statement, noting that 11 employees have been let go and expressing uncertainty about the company’s future direction.
"In the run-up to our latest release, it was evident that we too faced the funding challenges that have impacted numerous game development studios throughout 2024 and 2025," Bithell explained. "Thankfully, we were able to communicate this ahead of time and support affected employees with severance arrangements to ease their transition."
Previously, Bithell Games developed Tron: Identity, a puzzle-visual novel hybrid that helped establish the studio’s creative partnership with Disney's sci-fi brand.
Before entering the Tron universe, the studio gained recognition for the tactical RPG John Wick Hex, building on earlier indie hits such as Thomas Was Alone and Volume.
"Let me be clear—this was an exceptionally gifted and dedicated team," Bithell continued. "If you’re hiring, every one of these team members would be a valuable addition to your studio. We’re happy to help connect you with them."
"This decision does not affect the availability of our self-published library or ongoing support for those titles. We are deeply thankful to our players and hope you’ll continue to follow the work of our talented team members in their next ventures. Bithell Games has always been shaped and driven by its people. Today, we are fewer."
