Hjalmar Vikström, the chief development officer and co-founder of 10 Chambers, has announced his departure from the studio, a decision that comes after over a decade of involvement in the company’s landmark project, GTFO. His exit is accompanied by news of a restructuring within the studio, resulting in staff layoffs and a reshuffling of the team.
Vikström played a pivotal role in the development and eventual success of GTFO, a game that made its mark when it was launched in Early Access in 2019. With a modest team of nine, the game reached its full release in 2021, marking a significant milestone for the studio. However, the strenuous demands of game development have taken a toll on Vikström, leading him to prioritize his health and family. He now intends to pursue indie projects, focusing on creating smaller games.
Amidst Vikström’s departure, 10 Chambers has reportedly undergone a round of layoffs affecting several employees. Various staff confirmed these developments on professional networking platforms, indicating an industry-adjusting restructure. Notably, these changes have impacted some employees who had been with the studio for just over a year. This recent wave of layoffs marks the second such instance within a two-year span, following earlier cuts in February 2024, which saw five roles eliminated.
The coincidence of Vikström’s departure and the layoffs indicates a period of significant transition and recalibration for 10 Chambers as they navigate the evolving landscape of game development and studio management.

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Hjalmar Vikström, co-founder and CDO of 10 Chambers, has left the studio after over a decade working on GTFO to focus on health, family, and indie projects. His departure coincides with a second round of layoffs at the studio within two years, affecting multiple employees including some who joined just over a year ago. The changes signal a significant restructuring period for 10 Chambers as they navigate evolving studio dynamics.

Hjalmar Vikström's Departure and 10 Chambers' Recent Layoffs Reflect Shifts in Studio's Dynamics