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Prototype Dev Axed, Studio's Future Uncertain
Activision confirmed there have been significant layoffs at Vancouver-based Radical Entertainment, the studio behind the Prototype franchise, and said it will no longer develop games for the publisher.
"Radical is a very talented studio and has been a great partner to Activision," a spokesperson told Game Informer. "Although we made a substantial investment in the Prototype IP, it did not find a broad commercial audience.
"Following an exploration of a wide range of options, it was determined that closing Radical Entertainment as a creative entity was the only option."
This decision means that Radical will not be independently developing any games going forward. There will, however, be some employees who will remain working for the company on other Activision Publishing projects, according to the publisher.
Activision clarified saying the studio is not shutting down entirely at this time. "We met with the team and are currently exploring various options for the future of the studio including a potential sale of the business," the spokesperson added.
"Our preference would be to keep the team together, however, it is too early to say anything further at this time."
Prototype 2 was released in April 2012. Radical Entertainment also released Scarface: The World Is Yours in 2006 and The Incredible Hulk: Ultimate Destruction in 2005.
The developer employed around 90 people.
Correction: This story incorrectly stated Activision was closing Radical Entertainment. As of now, it will remain open, but in a much smaller capacity.
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