Hi-Rez Studios, the developer behind Smite 2, has laid off its president Stewart Chisam and several other senior executives in an uncommon top-down workforce reduction. This decision follows a series of layoffs over the past year, as the studio continues to restructure and realign its resources in the lead-up to Smite 2’s anticipated release.
A Shift in Strategy: From Developers to Executives
Unlike most industry layoffs, which typically impact lower-level developers, this latest round of cuts at Hi-Rez Studios targets senior leadership. Among those let go are:
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Stewart Chisam, President of Hi-Rez Studios
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Travis Brown, Executive Producer
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A manager known publicly as Radar
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Two senior leaders from the RallyHere division
The restructuring was confirmed by Hi-Rez executive producer Alex Cantatore in a Reddit comment, where he noted that the company had “too many senior managers for its size,” prompting the board to take difficult action.
Pattern of Layoffs and Backlash
This is the third round of layoffs within a year for Hi-Rez. In October 2024, staff cuts began quietly, followed by a more high-profile reduction in February 2025, where up to 70 employees were let go as the company scaled back development on Paladins and Rogue Company to prioritize Smite 2.
The February layoffs led to backlash from the community, and then-president Stewart Chisam even deactivated his Twitter account amid the controversy. These repeated cuts suggest a steady downsizing of the company, perhaps reflective of tightening budgets and shifting business goals.
What’s Next for Smite 2?
Despite the internal shake-ups, Hi-Rez insists that development on Smite 2 continues. However, the exit of major decision-makers like Chisam and Brown raises questions about the future vision and leadership behind the project.
Smite 2 remains one of the studio’s most anticipated titles, poised to redefine the franchise with next-gen gameplay and expanded multiplayer features. Whether the game stays on schedule or undergoes shifts in tone or scope remains to be seen.
The Smite 2 Hi-Rez executive layoffs mark a rare moment in the gaming industry where leadership is held accountable in the face of downsizing. With the future of Smite 2 hanging in the balance, fans and analysts alike will be watching closely to see how the studio navigates this critical transition.