Paradox Interactive has confirmed layoffs at The Chinese Room, the studio behind the highly anticipated Vampire: The Masquerade – Bloodlines 2. Despite the layoffs, the publisher reassures fans that the development of the game remains ‘unaffected.’ While the exact number of affected employees hasn’t been disclosed, former developers have shared their experiences on LinkedIn, confirming they lost their positions. One former employee reflected, ‘We are none of us safe from the headsman’s axe when redundancy time comes around.’
At least nine employees have confirmed they were laid off, though the full extent of the cuts remains unclear. 
Paradox confirmed the layoffs to PC Gamer, adding that the game’s October release schedule is not in jeopardy. The statement assured, ‘Development on Vampire: The Masquerade – Bloodlines 2 is unaffected by the recent staffing changes at The Chinese Room. We wish those affected the best of luck in their future endeavors.’
Development on the game has had a turbulent history. Originally announced in 2019, Vampire: The Masquerade – Bloodlines 2 faced several hurdles, including the threat of cancellation when Hardsuit Labs was at the helm. The Chinese Room took over in 2021, picking up where Hardsuit Labs left off while also working on other projects like Still Wakes The Deep.
The layoffs mark yet another twist in the long journey of Bloodlines 2, which has been plagued by delays and staffing changes. Earlier this year, Paradox confirmed the game’s release is still set for October, though no specific date has been announced. According to Paradox, the game is ‘done,’ with the team now focused on polishing and bug fixing before the release. After so many setbacks, the upcoming launch of Bloodlines 2 will be a significant moment, and fans are eager to see if it can live up to the long wait.