Star Stable Entertainment Cuts 20% of Workforce
Stockholm-based developer Star Stable Entertainment has laid off approximately 20% of its staff as part of a restructuring effort to secure long-term viability. The move affects between 26 and 40 employees depending on actual headcount.
Star Stable Entertainment, the Stockholm-based developer behind the horse-care MMO Star Stable Online, has announced layoffs affecting approximately 20% of its workforce. The exact number of affected staff remains unclear, as the company's website lists 130 employees while its LinkedIn profile suggests over 180, meaning cuts could range between 26 and 40 positions. Star Stable declined to confirm the precise figure when contacted.
Interim CEO James Nicholas cited the need to secure the company's long-term future as the reason for the restructuring. "Making this decision was incredibly challenging and does not diminish the contribution these team members have made," Nicholas wrote on LinkedIn. "However, I strongly believe this step is necessary to secure the long-term future of Star Stable. By reducing our operating costs and refocusing our resources, we are putting Star Stable in the best possible position to adapt, grow, and deliver memorable experiences for players today and for years to come."
Nicholas emphasized the company's commitment to supporting departing staff through the transition. "Right now, our immediate focus is supporting the talented colleagues who are leaving us," he stated. "I want to express my sincere personal gratitude for their hard work, creativity, and dedication. We are fully committed to helping them navigate this transition with care and respect."
Star Stable Entertainment, owned by Nordisk Games, operates two primary titles. Star Stable Online, the flagship MMO where players care for horses and explore the island of Jorvik, has generated approximately $23 million in in-app purchases since its full launch in 2022 and accumulated around 12 million downloads. The game currently generates an estimated $500,000 per month. The studio also operates Star Stable Horses, which has earned approximately $2.7 million in IAPs since its 2017 launch. The company recently marked its 15th anniversary since founding.
Star Stable has encouraged other studios that are actively hiring to contact affected employees, emphasizing their skill and dedication.
Sources
- PocketGamer.bizEstablished publication · recorded Sep 8, 2026Star Stable Entertainment lays off 20% of staff
- MobileGamer.bizEstablished publication · recorded Sep 8, 2026Up to 40 staff at risk as Star Stable cuts 20% of its workforce
- GamesIndustry.bizEstablished publication · recorded Sep 8, 2026Star Stable Entertainment reduces workforce by 20% to secure long-term future of its multiplayer horse adventure RPG