Respawn Cancels Multiplayer FPS Project

Respawn Entertainment, the developer behind Apex Legends, has canceled an unannounced incubation project, resulting in layoffs. This news, initially reported by Insider Gaming, citing a since-removed LinkedIn post, has been independently confirmed by IGN.

The canceled project was a multiplayer first-person shooter (FPS). At least one job posting related to this project appeared last year. IGN understands the project stemmed from a team previously working on a Star Wars FPS at Respawn, a project itself canceled in 2023. While the exact number of layoffs remains unconfirmed, sources describe the number as "small." IGN has also identified at least one individual connected to the project who clarified their departure was voluntary.

This cancellation follows a pattern of project cancellations, layoffs, and restructuring within Electronic Arts (EA). This began in 2023 with job cuts at BioWare (50) and Codemasters (an unspecified number). A year ago, EA laid off 670 employees company-wide and canceled several projects, including the aforementioned Star Wars FPS, impacting approximately two dozen Respawn employees. Further restructuring at BioWare involved internal developer reassignments and additional, unspecified layoffs.

IGN has contacted Electronic Arts for comment.