Nintendo of America has announced that they will be laying off 86 contract workers in Redmond starting on May 25.

Photo byErik McleanonUnsplash

The decision comes as part of a reorganization of their product testing department. This news comes ahead of the launch of Nintendo’s highly anticipated successor to the Switch console, which has been delayed until 2025.

Impact on Employees

The layoffs at Nintendo will involve the end of some contractor assignments but will also lead to the creation of new full-time employee positions.

A spokesperson for Nintendo expressed gratitude for the contributions of the contractors who will be leaving and highlighted the important work they have done for the company over the years.

It is important to note that everyone impacted by the layoffs will receive severance packages to support them during this transition.

Industry Trend

Nintendo is not the only company in the gaming industry to be facing layoffs recently.

Other companies, such as Bungie and Hidden Path Entertainment in Bellevue, as well as Amazon's gaming division, have also had to let go of employees in the past year.

This trend of layoffs in the gaming industry reflects a shifting landscape and the challenges that companies are facing in the current market.

What Are Your Thoughts?

What do you think about the layoffs at Nintendo and the broader trend of layoffs in the gaming industry? Do you believe that these decisions are necessary for the companies to stay competitive, or do you have concerns about the impact on employees and the industry as a whole?

Share your thoughts and opinions in the comments below!