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TikTok owner ByteDance shuts down Shanghai game studio 101

Reports suggest that over 100 workers have been let go as a result of the closure.

Chris Kerr, News Editor

June 28, 2022

1 Min Read
An external shot of the ByteDance office with the company logo illuminated

TikTok owner ByteDance's video game plans have suffered a setback after the company shuttered a development studio it purchased just three years ago.

As reported by Bloomberg, the closure of the company's Shanghai-based development studio, 101 Studio, resulted in the loss of over 100 jobs.

The news is notable as it marks the first time ByteDance has shut down a game development studio.

In fact, the move comes just over a year after the company continued its rapid expansion into the world of video games by purchasing Mobile Legends: Bang Bang developer Moonton Technology and Red Alert Online maker C4games.

It's being reported that remaining 101 Studio staffers will be transferred to ByteDance's publishing arm, Nuverse. The company is also reportedly considering letting Pico -- a virtual reality company it bought last year -- take the reins on a VR title that had been in development at 101. 

About the Author

Chris Kerr

News Editor, GameDeveloper.com

Game Developer news editor Chris Kerr is an award-winning journalist and reporter with over a decade of experience in the game industry. His byline has appeared in notable print and digital publications including Edge, Stuff, Wireframe, International Business Times, and PocketGamer.biz. Throughout his career, Chris has covered major industry events including GDC, PAX Australia, Gamescom, Paris Games Week, and Develop Brighton. He has featured on the judging panel at The Develop Star Awards on multiple occasions and appeared on BBC Radio 5 Live to discuss breaking news.

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