[GameSpot] - Studio Behind Stranger Things Game And More Shutting Down

[343iBot]

BonusXP, the studio behind the Stranger Things games, announced that it's shutting down. The developer made the announcement on Twitter, stating that it has "begun the difficult process of ceasing operations."

"We have enjoyed making games for you over the last 11 years," the company said. As explained in the tweet, the company's main priority right now is to help its team find work. Employers can email the company at [email protected] for more information about filling vacancies.

We have begun the difficult process of ceasing operations at BonusXP. We have enjoyed making games for you over the last 11 years.

Our focus is on helping our team find their next opportunities.

If you are looking for great game talent, please contact us at [email protected].

— BonusXP (@BonusXP) June 1, 2023

BonusXP was founded in Allen, Texas in 2012. While it developed multiple games shortly after it formed, such as Monster Crew and The Incorruptibles, the studio gained a new level of popularity when it shipped Stranger Things: 1984. This mobile title launched in 2017 as part of a collaboration with Netflix.

Then, the team worked on Stranger Things 3: The Game, which corresponded with the series' third season in 2019. BonusXP also developed Dark Crystal: Age of Resistance Tactics, yet another Netflix collaboration based on that show's one and only season.

BonusXP didn't specify why it's ceasing operations, but studio closures are unfortunately common. The news of BonusXP's closure comes just days after it was announced that Vanpool--a support team that worked on Kirby games, as well as other Nintendo titles--is also shutting down. Even behemoths like Amazon aren't immune to closures and layoffs, as it recently let go of around 100 employees from its gaming division.

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