Star Wars: Zero Company developer Bit Reactor furloughs most of its development team weeks before the game launches, according to multiple reports. Several outlets say about 80% of staff were put on unpaid leave, with some describing the move as unpaid furloughs rather than layoffs.
The game launches to strong reviews, but reporting ties the furloughs to financial pressure at the studio. GameSpot says Bit Reactor confirmed furlough activity to a source in August and describes a tight development budget that appeared to run low around the time of release. Other coverage adds context that Bit Reactor’s ownership and leadership are under dispute, with outlets citing a legal disagreement between co-founders that raises questions about control of the company and its ability to pay staff.
Across outlets, the central points are consistent: most employees were furloughed or placed on unpaid leave ahead of launch, and the situation is linked to money running short amid a broader legal dispute. Outlets differ mainly in emphasis, with some framing the timeline as “weeks before launch” and others highlighting the ownership litigation and what that means for future payments and rehiring.
