Dune Awakening studio undergoes layoffs following console launch

Funcom is entering another period of restructuring, with the company confirming that staff cuts will take place as it transitions away from full production on Dune: Awakening. The move comes just months after the game’s console launch, and follows a similar round of layoffs shortly after the title first released on PC.

Alongside the restructuring, Funcom is appointing a new CEO. Scott Junior, a 25‑year veteran at the studio, will take over leadership from Rui Casais, who has served as CEO for the past 11 years. With Dune: Awakening’s major development cycle now complete, Funcom says it will shift its primary focus toward the long‑term operation and growth of both Dune: Awakening and Conan Exiles.

As part of that transition, the company will reduce its headcount, stating that it cannot sustain the size required during peak development now that the project has moved into post‑launch support.

Funcom’s press release outlines the leadership change and the reasoning behind the cuts. Junior has led live operations on several of the studio’s biggest titles, including Conan Exiles, The Secret World and Age of Conan, and also served as Executive Producer on Dune: Awakening.

Casais, who will depart at the end of the year, described the restructuring as a necessary step as Funcom moves from full production into long‑term support. The company says it will not share further details on the layoffs until the process concludes.

KitGuru says: Layoffs remain a recurring problem across the industry, particularly as studios shift from full production into maintenance / support. Hopefully those affected at Funcom land on their feet quickly.