Nintendo of America Restructures Testing Department, Resulting in Layoffs

Amid a slowdown in first-party game releases, Nintendo of America is laying off contractors and creating new full-time positions in a bid to globalize testing procedures.

Nintendo of America announces layoffs within its testing departments due to a slow first-party release schedule, with early estimates suggesting as many as 100 testers could be dismissed.
The restructuring aims to drive greater global integration in game development efforts and better align with interregional testing procedures, resulting in the creation of significant new full-time positions.
The layoffs come amid a broader industry trend, with close to 20,000 workers made redundant in the gaming sector since the start of 2023.
Contractors affected by the layoffs will be offered severance packages and assistance during their transition, with Nintendo expressing gratitude for their contributions.
The layoffs and restructuring are partially attributed to the delayed launch of the Nintendo Switch 2, now expected in the first half of 2025, and a lull in first-party game releases.