“Ashes of Creation Layoffs: Devs Denied Final Paychecks, Ex-Comms Lead Reveals”
Recent layoffs at Intrepid Studios, the developer of the MMORPG Ashes of Creation, have led to serious concerns among staff and fans alike. Employees who were affected by the layoffs will reportedly not receive their final paychecks or other due compensation.
Ashes of Creation Layoffs: Details Emerge
Margaret Krohn, the former director of communications at Intrepid Studios, disclosed the turmoil on her LinkedIn profile. On January 28, she learned that 100 employees would be laid off, a development she found unexpected. The next day, Krohn communicated this information discreetly to her Game Services team, emphasizing the need to treat her colleagues with respect during a challenging time.
As the layoffs progressed, Krohn kept her team informed as much as possible. On January 30, she held individual discussions with affected members. “Even those who knew they would be leaving offered their support,” she noted.
Final Paychecks and WARN Act Violations
On January 31, employees received a confusing email announcing their layoffs, accompanied by a Worker Adjustment and Retraining Notification (WARN) notice. Despite this notification, Krohn reported that the employees would not receive their final paychecks, payout for accrued PTO, or other owed compensation. This raises serious questions regarding compliance with the WARN Act.
The WARN Act mandates that employees should receive a written notice 60 days prior to a mass layoff. If not, they may seek damages for lost wages and benefits. “None of us are receiving our final paychecks or 60 days’ notice and pay,” Krohn expressed.
Implications for Ashes of Creation Players
Krohn extended her sympathies to the players of Ashes of Creation, stating that the development team worked tirelessly to bring the game to fruition. She encouraged players to pursue refunds, emphasizing their right to compensation if the game did not meet the promised delivery standards outlined in the initial 2017 Kickstarter campaign.
With the game recently entering Steam Early Access in December, opinions have been mixed. Speculation suggests that the rushed release aimed to circumvent potential refund requests from Kickstarter backers.
Leadership Changes and Speculation
The departure of creative director Steven Sharif has added further uncertainty. He left Intrepid shortly before the layoffs amidst reported disagreements with the board. Players are questioning the situation, particularly since only Sharif and his husband are listed as company officers in a California state filing from December 2025.
In a recent Reddit discussion, Krohn acknowledged her limited insight into senior leadership decisions while assuring that Sharif was a supportive figure during her time at the studio. “This has been heartbreaking,” she stated.
Conclusion
The layoff situation at Intrepid Studios remains fluid, with ongoing discussions surrounding final compensation and the future of Ashes of Creation. Further comments have been sought from the remnants of the company regarding these pressing issues.
