Vermila Studios’ Troubled Times: Layoffs and Uncertainty Over Studio’s Future
In a devastating blow to the VR and gaming community, Vermila Studios has laid off nearly a fifth of its staff, leaving many to wonder if the studio will be able to weather the financial storm. The news comes just five months after the launch of Crisol: Theater of Idols, a highly anticipated title that has been making waves in the industry.
According to sources close to the studio, the layoffs were a result of financial difficulties that have been plaguing Vermila Studios for some time. In a statement, CEO David Carrasco revealed that the company is struggling to stay afloat and has initiated an Expediente de Regulación de Empleo (ERE), a legal process in Spain that allows companies to temporarily suspend contracts or issue layoffs. This move has left many employees reeling, with some taking to social media to express their shock and disappointment.
Game designer Raúl Pernía Alejandro was one of the first to break the news on Twitter, saying “For us who have dedicated so much effort and care to this project, this is very tough news.” He went on to praise the experience he gained while working on Crisol, calling it a defining moment in his professional career. His words are a testament to the dedication and passion that has gone into creating Vermila’s latest title.
Vermila Studios’ troubles are not new, however. The company has been navigating financial difficulties since its acquisition by Embracer Group in 2020 for €0.9 million ($1.06 million). In 2023, Embracer announced a major shift in strategy, aiming to become a “highly cash-flow generative business” that would prioritize profitability over heavy investment. This move led to multiple layoffs and divestments, ultimately resulting in the studio’s split with Embracer.
The latest developments have left many wondering if Vermila Studios will be able to recover from this setback. As Carrasco so candidly put it, “the circumstances are quite difficult… it is a feasible possibility in the upcoming months” that the studio may close its doors for good. The prospect of losing such a talented team and innovative projects like Crisol: Theater of Idols is devastating news for VR enthusiasts.
The future of Vermila Studios remains uncertain, but one thing is clear: the industry will be watching with bated breath as this story unfolds. Will the studio find a way to overcome its financial struggles and continue creating groundbreaking experiences, or will it become another casualty of the ever-changing gaming landscape? Only time will tell.
Source: Game Developer XR — 2026-07-23