VR developer Polyarc Games facing layoffs, unspecified number of employees affected

Seattle-based VR developer Polyarc Games has announced company-wide layoffs, though the number of affected workers was not disclosed.

Polyarc, known for the adventure-puzzle game Moss, stated it was unable to secure funding after the cancellation of a major project.

“We had to make the decision to significantly reduce the size of the company,” Polyarc Games wrote on LinkedIn. “This means we’re saying goodbye to many talented people who have been a meaningful part of what we’ve built.”

“We want to thank everyone impacted. Your work, creativity, and care mattered. We made wonderful games together, and we would not have made it this far without you. Your contributions will continue to shape our culture and the games we make.”

GamesIndustry.biz has requested clarification on the number of employees affected.

Polyarc Games was founded in 2015 by former Bungie developers Tam Armstrong, Danny Bulla, and Chris Alderson.

In 2016, the company raised $3.5 million to develop Moss. It secured a further $9 billion in Series B funding in 2020 to expand into augmented reality.

Polyarc’s layoffs reflect a broader trend in the VR industry. Earlier this year, Meta reduced its Reality Labs workforce by 10%, resulting in the closure of Twisted Pixel Games, Sanzaru Games, and Armature Studio.

Recent reports indicate Meta made additional cuts, eliminating 700 roles across several divisions, including Reality Labs.

“Teams across Meta regularly restructure or implement changes to ensure they’re in the best position to achieve their goals,” a Meta spokesperson said. “Where possible, we are funding opportunities for employees whose positions are impacted.