Dear Games Team,
This morning marks an important moment of transition for our Games division, as we implement a range of significant changes designed to better align our long-term strategy with Amazon’s broader evolution. You may have already read Beth Galetti’s earlier communication regarding the wider company initiatives announced today. However, I would like to take a moment to speak directly and in greater depth to our Games organization, since the strategic adjustments unfolding within our group extend beyond the general company-wide restructuring and reflect a deliberate recalibration of our specific vision and priorities within the gaming domain.
Over the past several months, our leadership team has engaged in a thoughtful and comprehensive evaluation of our forward-looking plans. This process was guided by a renewed emphasis on our core mission: to deliver truly exceptional gaming experiences to customers while simultaneously leveraging the distinctive capabilities that Amazon brings to global entertainment. This dual focus—on customer delight and on Amazon’s unique technological and service-based advantages—defines the path by which we can deliver impact at the massive scale that our company represents. A recent example that perfectly captures this synergy is last week’s debut of the all-new Luna platform. This launch embodies our strategic intent by combining Amazon’s strength in streaming technology with our commitment to providing meaningful value to Prime members. With Luna’s introduction, players gained access to a compelling library that spans everything from lighthearted, social party titles to expansive AAA blockbusters. Moreover, the team led by Jeff continues to innovate, developing additional offerings that will enhance both the depth and diversity of the Luna experience. As we often remind ourselves, in true Amazon spirit, it is still “Day 1.”
Parallel to these internal reflections, we have also conducted a sober examination of the gaming industry’s changing landscape—an ecosystem marked by intense competition, fast-paced innovation, and evolving player expectations. While we remain deeply proud of what we have achieved in first-party AAA game development and publishing, we have concluded that focusing our resources differently will position us more effectively for future success. Consequently, we have made the difficult but necessary decision to scale back a substantial portion of our first-party AAA development efforts, particularly those centered around massively multiplayer online (MMO) projects within Amazon Game Studios. This decision includes a corresponding reduction in roles within our studios located in Irvine and San Diego, as well as adjustments within our central publishing organization. We recognize the profound human impact of these changes and approach them with care, empathy, and sincere gratitude for the extraordinary contributions of every individual affected.
Even as we pivot away from certain undertakings, our creative momentum in game development remains strong and multifaceted. Our Montreal studio recently completed a successful closed alpha test of *March of Giants*, an encouraging milestone that signals steady progress toward the game’s release. Meanwhile, Studio 5 continues to expand its focus on innovative, accessible titles optimized for Luna’s platform. Its recent release—*Courtroom Chaos: Starring Snoop Dogg*—served as Luna’s launch title and represents a bold step into the realm of casual and AI-enhanced entertainment experiences. Beyond internal projects, we are also sustaining exciting partnerships with world-class external developers, including ongoing collaborations with Crystal Dynamics on the next installment in the *Tomb Raider* franchise and with Maverick Games on an expansive, open-world driving experience. These partnerships exemplify our commitment to combining Amazon’s platform capabilities with the creative excellence of leading studios across the globe.
Throughout the day, both Christoph and Jeff will reach out individually to provide further clarity on how these changes may influence you and your teams. Notifications have already been issued in most countries where employee roles are impacted, while our other international hubs will follow their respective local processes and timelines for communication. We are mindful that transitions of this magnitude can be unsettling, and we are committed to supporting affected employees with transparency, respect, and the necessary resources to navigate this period.
Without question, days like this are difficult. We are saying goodbye to colleagues and friends whose dedication, skill, and passion have left an indelible mark on our Mission to delight gamers around the world. These are never easy decisions, and we do not make them hastily or without deep consideration. Yet, they are vital to ensuring that our business continues to evolve, innovate, and thrive in an industry defined by constant transformation.
If you have specific questions or need individualized guidance, please do not hesitate to reach out either to your direct manager or to your HR Business Partner. They are prepared to provide clarity and assistance throughout this process.
Thank you all for your professionalism, your creativity, and your unwavering commitment to our mission.
Sincerely,
Steve
Sourse: https://www.theverge.com/news/808332/amazon-gaming-layoffs-mmo-aaa-first-party-games
