Skate Developer Full Circle Hit With Layoffs as EA Looks to 'Better Support' the 'Long-Term Future' of the Game

IGN

by Michael Cripe

February 25, 2026

AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary

Skate developer Full Circle has announced layoffs as part of a restructuring effort aimed at "better supporting" the long-term future of its free-to-play title. While the exact number of affected employees remains undisclosed, the company emphasized that this decision reflects strategic changes to team structure rather than a lack of appreciation for their contributions. Full Circle and EA, the game's publisher, have assured fans that development on Skate will continue, with plans to focus on features and updates most important to players. The layoffs follow a series of recent cuts at EA, including 670 jobs in early 2024 and an additional 300 roles in April 2025. These reductions have led to the cancellation of several projects, such as a new Titanfall universe game at Respawn Entertainment. EA has also shifted policies, ending remote hiring and encouraging office returns while navigating significant corporate changes, including a $55 billion acquisition offer from Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund (PIF) and other investors in September 2025. Despite the restructuring, Full Circle remains committed to Skate's development. The game, which launched as an Early Access title in September 2025 and has attracted tens of millions of players across multiple platforms, is set to enter Season 3 soon. The studio promises to maintain its focus on delivering updates, features, and community support moving forward. This move highlights the challenges faced by gaming companies in balancing long-term vision with operational adjustments. While EA's actions reflect a broader trend of layoffs and restructuring in the gaming industry, they also underscore the importance of adapting to market demands while preserving key franchises like Skate. Fans can expect Full Circle to continue prioritizing player feedback and innovation as it works to secure Skate's future.

Verticals

gaming

Originally published on IGN on 2/25/2026