Dune: Awakening Purges | Game Creator Controversy

Metal: Hellsinger Developer The Outsiders Shut Down Following Funcom Restructuring

the studio behind the critically acclaimed rhythm-shooter Metal: Hellsinger is closing its doors, a casualty of restructuring efforts at its parent company, Funcom. the news was delivered by The Outsiders founder, David Goldfarb, signaling a difficult end for the independent Stockholm-based developer.

On October 6,2025,Goldfarb announced the studio’s closure,explaining that the effects of Funcom’s restructuring process,initially confirmed in early October,had reached The Outsiders’ team. “I didn’t have much time to process this message, but everyone in The Outsiders and Funcom Stockholm felt the effects of release in Funcom, our 10-year studio will be closed,” Goldfarb stated in a message posted on BlueSky.

The Outsiders,established for a decade,was acquired by Funcom in June 2021,becoming a branch of the larger studio responsible for titles like Dune: Awakening. The restructuring at Funcom has led to widespread layoffs,with The Outsiders bearing the brunt of the impact. Approximately 50 employees, according to LinkedIn data, are affected by the closure.

Did you know? – The Outsiders was founded a decade ago and acquired by Funcom in 2021. The studio’s closure is a direct result of Funcom’s restructuring, impacting around 50 employees. The news was announced on October 6, 2025, by founder David Goldfarb.

Despite the disheartening news, Goldfarb expressed gratitude for the team’s dedication and the success of Metal: Hellsinger, which boasts a 95% positive rating on Steam based on over 16,000 reviews. He reflected on the studio’s earlier struggles with a previously canceled project, Darkborn, and how the team rallied to create the unique and highly praised Metal: Hellsinger. “Many of us survived moments close to death years ago, when it was canceled Darkborn however, thanks to the loyalty of the team and its refusal to resign Metal: Hellsinger,” Goldfarb wrote. “For me personally it will always be a great moment and I am grateful for being able to do it, as well as for a great team and cooperation that enabled it.”

Reader question: – What do you think the future holds for David Goldfarb and the former employees of The Outsiders? Share your thoughts on the impact of this closure on the gaming industry and the potential for new projects.

Looking ahead, Goldfarb indicated a desire to continue game development, even without the backing of Funcom. He announced plans to pursue a “new formula” and invited collaborators to join the effort. “Changing is always difficult, which is why we are all suffering now,” he concluded.

The closure of The Outsiders marks another instance of consolidation within the gaming industry, highlighting the challenges faced by independent studios navigating a rapidly evolving market. While the future remains uncertain, Goldfarb’s commitment to creating “something better” offers a glimmer of hope for fans of the studio’s innovative approach to game design.