NetEase’s Closure of Fantastic Pixel Castle

NetEase, the Chinese-based developer and publisher, has recently announced the closure of another Western studio, Fantastic Pixel Castle. Led by former World of Warcraft designer Greg Street, the studio was part of NetEase’s push into Western game development.

This closure comes as a part of NetEase’s strategic shift towards focusing on Chinese development, leading to the shutdown of several other studios in recent months.

The Impact on the Gaming Industry

The closure of Fantastic Pixel Castle marks yet another setback for Western game development and the talented developers involved in these studios. With NetEase pulling funding from the studio, the future of the MMO project ‘Ghost’ that Fantastic Pixel Castle was working on is now uncertain.

Industry veterans such as Greg Street and other studio heads like Mac Walters and Jerry Hook have faced challenges as NetEase continues to close Western studios, leaving many developers seeking new opportunities in the competitive gaming industry.

Looking Ahead

As NetEase shifts its focus towards Chinese development, the closure of Fantastic Pixel Castle serves as a reminder of the volatile nature of the gaming industry. While the studio may be closing its doors, the talent and creativity of the developers involved will surely find new avenues for expression and innovation.

It remains to be seen how NetEase’s decision to close Western studios will impact the gaming landscape in the coming months and years.