TimeSplitters Developer Free Radical Design Might Be Closing - Report

The developers behind the TimeSplitters franchise, Free Radical Design, might be shutting down studio doors.

According to VGC, Free Radical Design's parent company, Embracer Group, has reportedly notified the studio that it could potentially be shut down due to ongoing evaluation. However, there is still a chance that Free Radical Design will stick around.

Additionally, Free Radical Design employees must be notified at least 30 days in advance of any impending layoffs. This is in accordance with UK's employment laws that one of Embracer's European divisions, Plaion, must adhere to.

While the studio closure has not been confirmed, there are already several Free Radical Design employees on LinkedIn stating that they are looking for new work. These include junior artists as well as game and environmental designers.

Embracer Group has been on an aggressive layoff spree ever since its reported $2 billion deal with Saudi's investment fund fell through. Saints Row developer Volition was shut down earlier this year, and Borderlands developer Gearbox is reportedly currently looking for a buyer too.

THQ Nordic, owned by Embracer Group, acquired the TimeSplitters IP back in 2018. Free Radical Design was reformed in 2021 and was tasked with creating a new TimeSplitters game, but now its future is unknown.