Perfect World continues closures as Runic Games is shut down

Developer Runic Games, publisher of the Torchlight series of games and its most recent title Hob, is the latest studio to be closed by publisher Perfect World.

The publisher, who last week closed Gigantic developer Motiga, has shut down the developer’s one office in Seattle but will continue the company in name under the Perfect World umbrella.

"Perfect World Entertainment recently closed the Seattle office of Runic Games as part of the company’s continued strategy to focus on online games as a service," read a statement provided to website Gamasutra. "We’re grateful to the team for all of their hard work bringing incredible experiences like Torchlight, Torchlight 2 and Hob to life. Runic Games will remain a part of Perfect World Entertainment’s portfolio of studios, and its games will continue to be available to players, as we stay committed to supporting and growing Runic Games’ beloved franchises.

"The staff reduction at Motiga and the closure of Runic Games Seattle were unrelated. Perfect World Entertainment stands committed to delivering the best massively multiplayer online gameplay experiences to our players."

Runic Games have released a statement of their own, asking the industry to help re-employ its affected staff. "It’s been over nine years since a rag-tag team of 17 developers helped open Runic Games," the statement sent. "We’ve been so lucky for the community that has supported us and made us successful. Thanks to that support, we have had the chance to meet and work with the best people in the world. Our team here at Runic has released three successful games, and over that time we have seen many changes; team members got married, kids were born, but the most important thing is that we have become a family.

"I’m sorry to say that today will be Runic’s last day open. Our focus is on our family here, and helping them find a new place to call home. If you are in games and looking for some of the best talent in the industry, please email jobs@runicgames.com"