NetEase Games has implemented layoffs at its Montreal studio, significantly impacting the Quality Assurance (QA) department. The reduction in staff primarily hit senior team members and project managers within QA, as confirmed by several affected employees through LinkedIn posts. This move comes after a series of studio closures by NetEase in late 2025, which included T-Minus Zero Entertainment, Bad Brain Game Studios, and Fantastic Pixel Castle.
The layoffs at the Montreal studio occurred around the turn of the year, aligning with NetEase’s February 2025 announcement to support its overseas studios while making necessary structural adjustments. Despite these measures, the company has yet to release an official statement regarding the recent job cuts.
These developments contribute to a broader trend in the gaming industry, with approximately 1,000 people losing jobs in 2026. The Montreal layoffs follow a previous decision by NetEase to close its entire US office, affecting six employees.

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NetEase Games laid off staff at its Montreal studio, primarily affecting senior QA team members and project managers. The cuts follow a series of studio closures in late 2025 and align with the company's structural adjustment strategy announced in February 2025. These layoffs contribute to approximately 1,000 job losses in the gaming industry in 2026.

NetEase Games Implements Job Cuts at Montreal Studio Amidst Global Restructuring