BioShock 4 studio reportedly facing layoffs as former Diablo boss takes over amid "development turmoil"

UPDATE 20/8/2025: 2K Games has confirmed recent reports of layoffs at BioShock 4 developer Cloud Chamber, sharing an internal memo with Eurogamer in which 2K president David Ismailer told staff the publisher would be “reducing the size of the development team” as it looks to “rework certain aspects” of the purportedly troubled project.

“BioShock is woven deeply into the fabric of 2K,” Ismailer wrote in his memo. “It’s one of our most beloved franchises and respecting its legacy and meeting our fans’ expectations is critical to its future success.

“Work on the next BioShock game has been underway for several years. While we’re excited about the foundational gameplay elements of the project, we’ve made the decision with studio leadership to rework certain aspects that are core to a BioShock game, and in doing so are reducing the size of the development team to focus on this work and give the game more time in development.

“I know this is tough news for everyone. If your role is being affected, you’ll hear from your manager or studio leadership today with details on severance, career services and support resources. There is no easy way to do this, but we hope to do whatever we can to support you through this. I want to thank each of you for your dedication and hard work.”