When SOE turned into Daybreak Game Studio after being acquired by investment company Columbus Nova, readers began to speculate when staff shake ups would begin. A week later and rumors are beginning to float our way that at least two major players at Daybreak have received pink slips.
Posts on social media for both David Georgeson and Linda Carlson indicate that each major player in the SOE (now Daybreak Games) group have been let go from their work at the studio. Dave was the franchise lead behind all EverQuest titles, while Linda was the head of all community at SOE/Daybreak.
UPDATE from the SOE/Daybreak forums:
Dear Players, Partners & Friends, Last week we announced that we were acquired and are now operating independently as Daybreak Game Company. To better position our newly independent studio for future growth opportunities and to deliver on our legacy of making top online games, we have had to make some tough choices including realignment of resources. Unfortunately, this realignment means adjusting staffing as well. We announced today that we will eliminate positions in our San Diego and Austin studios. We deeply value our employees and never take these decisions lightly so we’ve done our best to do what’s right for the people affected. Although extremely difficult, these are necessary actions that will ultimately drive improved results and help strengthen our company’s foundation for success. Many of us are saying goodbye to close friends and colleagues who we’ve worked with over the years, and we are grateful for the memories and all that they’ve contributed. They will be greatly missed, and we wish them nothing but the best for the future. These reductions will not affect the operation of our current games and as mentioned above, will help better position our company for future success. As we move forward, we are committed to delivering the best online games and working side-by-side with our players to drive the future of our online games. Thank you for your continued support, The Daybreak Games Team
Yeah, I'm sorry folks but it's true. LM, eqn, eq and eqii are no longer guided by moi. Other dreamers will steer now.
— David Georgeson (@DaveGeorgeson) February 11, 2015
We will keep you posted as the story develops and as we learn if there are more people affected.
UPDATE @ 9:55pm ET: Steve Danuser, the Lore Master himself, has also been let go from SOE.
Hey folks, thanks for the kind words. I am no longer at Daybreak, but the lore will live on. Peace.
— Steve Danuser (@Moorgard) February 11, 2015
