Changes at Embracer Group: Uncertain Future for Piranha Bytes, THQ Nordic Negotiating

As of January 2024, significant changes have been reported at Piranha Bytes studio. THQ Nordic is currently discussing the possibility of relocating some of the studio's employees to other teams. These talks began following revelations that Piranha Bytes, owned by Embracer Group, might cease to exist in its current form. Previously, THQ Nordic attempted to defend the studio in front of Embracer Group’s leadership.

Development of Piranha Bytes' next game has been halted, and it remains unclear if the project will be transferred to another studio within the Embracer Group. As of now, only the legal entity of the studio remains. The troubles began following low sales of the game ELEX II and the departure of Creative Director Björn Pankratz. In December 2023, these issues led to the initiation of layoffs.

It should be noted that the closure of Piranha Bytes will not affect the development of the first "Gothic" remake, which is being handled by the Spanish studio Alkimia Interactive without Piranha Bytes’ direct involvement.