Alarm bells are sounding across the global gaming industry as Japanese publisher Square Enix implements significant mass layoffs amid a strategic restructuring effort. The company aims to sharpen its focus on game development within Japan, signaling a major shift in its operational priorities.

According to reports from IGN, numerous employees based in the United Kingdom and the United States were notified of their impending dismissal on November 6, 2025, with affected staff expected to leave within one week of notification. While the exact number of positions at risk in the U.S. remains undisclosed, up to 137 jobs are confirmed to be jeopardized within the UK division of Square Enix.

This move highlights a broader strategic pivot, with the company concentrating on its Japanese operations while potentially reducing its international footprint. The restructuring underscores the volatility and challenges confronting major players in the competitive video game industry, where market pressures and development priorities are constantly evolving.