The gaming industry, like any industry really, is a cruel mistress. We witness this cold reality yet again when we see the studio Trion Worlds, which was behind Rift, Trove and Archeage, having to cut over 150 workers today. This decision was likely out of Trion Worlds hands as it only happened after their acquisition by a German company, Gamigo.

Sadly Trion Worlds had this to say about the recent change on their forum page: “There has been a transaction involving Trion Worlds and its games…While many of the names and faces you’ve come to know in our studios will remain on through this transition, others will not be making the journey. To those who are leaving us, we are forever grateful for your incredible work and contributions over the years.”

Apparently, a source told Gamasutra that only 25 people remain on staff in the company, that’s a sizeable layoff considering the company had more than 200 people on staff.

On a brighter note, despite the loss of jobs, Trion employees did get their severance packages in full. That said, get your shit together TellTale – you may not be able to keep your company doors open but you should always look after your people.

It’s a hard world for game developers these days, whose next to fall to the chopping block?