Rune Factory developer Neverland will be ceasing operations, the company has announced via its official website (via: Game Jouhou).

Neverland say that performance has been sluggish due to changes in the business environment in recent years, and that their financial status has deteriorated considerably.

Additionally, attempts to raise funds to continue operations have been unsuccessful, and Neverland are closing down as of today. They will begin filing proceedings for bankruptcy soon.

Neverland have been responsible for the development of Marvelous AQL’s Rune Factory series ever since its conception. While Rune Factory 4 is the fastest-selling title in the series yet, it appears its success wasn’t enough to turn Neverland’s fortunes around.

This also raises the question of what will happen to Rune Factory 5, which Marvelous previously confirmed would be coming eventually. In addition to Rune Factory, Neverland also worked on games such as Lufia and Shining Force.