‘Crysis 4’ development paused as Crytek lays off 15% of staff due to financial issues

Crytek halts ‘Crysis 4’ development and lays off 15% of staff amid financial struggles and cost-cutting measures.

Crytek, the German-based developer known for the Crysis series, has announced that the development of 'Crysis 4' has been paused. 

This decision comes as the studio plans to lay off approximately 15% of its workforce due to financial challenges. The layoffs are expected to impact around 60 employees from the development and shared services teams. Those affected will be offered severance packages and career assistance services.

Founded by the Yerli brothers, Crytek is renowned for creating the 'Crysis' series, which debuted in 2007. The series follows a group of nanosuited soldiers battling powerful mercenaries and alien invaders called the Ceph. The fourth installment was set to be a direct sequel to 'Crysis 3' (2013), and was expected to push the limits of modern gaming hardware. However, development on 'Crysis 4' has been on hold since the third quarter of 2024.

In a post shared on X (formerly Twitter), Crytek explained that this decision was part of ongoing efforts to ensure the studio’s long-term financial sustainability. While 'Hunt: Showdown' continues to grow, the studio has faced increasing pressures to reduce costs across operations. Despite this setback, Crytek remains committed to the future of 'Hunt: Showdown,' especially following the popular addition of Ghost Face to the game’s roster.

Crytek’s portfolio also includes other major titles such as 'Far Cry,' 'Ryse: Son of Rome,' and 'Kingdom Come: Deliverance,' the latter developed by Warhorse Studios using Crytek’s proprietary CryEngine. 

As of 2024, Crytek is the largest game developer in Germany, with around 400 employees. In the meantime, fans can enjoy the 'Crysis Remastered Trilogy,' which includes support for Deep Learning Super Sampling on PC. Although development on 'Crysis 4' is on hold, the studio continues to work on other projects and maintains a hopeful outlook for the future.

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— Crytek (@Crytek) February 12, 2025