Pieces Interactive, the studio behind the recent remake of “Alone in the Dark,” has seemingly shut its doors. The studio, owned by Embracer, shared a farewell message on social media and its website, stating, “Pieces Interactive: 2007–2024. Thanks for playing with us.”
Confirmation of the closure came from former employees. Gustav Pethrus, a former character artist at the studio, posted on LinkedIn, “Hello everyone! Unfortunately, Pieces Interactive is closing down, so I’m looking for new opportunities.”
Since its inception in 2007, Pieces Interactive has released over ten titles across PC, console, and mobile platforms. Their portfolio includes games like Puzzlegeddon, Fret Nice, Robo Surf, and Kill to Collect. They also contributed to multiple expansions for Titan Quest. Their latest project was the remake of “Alone in the Dark.”
Embracer acquired the Swedish studio in 2017 for approximately SEK 2.8 million ($265,000). At the time, Embracer described the acquisition as a “long-term commitment in the studio and in the area of Skovde.”
However, in its latest fiscal report, Embracer revealed that “Alone in the Dark” did not meet expectations and delivered a “softer-than-expected performance.”
The closure of Pieces Interactive comes during a period of significant restructuring for Embracer. The company, which had been on a spree of high-profile mergers and acquisitions, announced last year that it would shift its focus to becoming a “highly cash flow generative business.” This shift included moving away from its “current heavy-investment mode” to become a “self-sufficient company.”
Following this announcement, Embracer initiated a series of studio closures, mass layoffs, project cancellations, and high-profile divestments, including the sale of Gearbox Entertainment and Saber Interactive. The restructuring program concluded in March 2024, with Embracer splitting into three standalone, publicly-listed entities in an effort to find a “winning formula.”
It remains unclear whether the closure of Pieces Interactive is a direct result of Embracer’s restructuring program or how many employees have been affected by the shutdown. Game Developer has reached out to Embracer for comment but has yet to receive a response.
