Former Valve writer hits out at Epic Games layoffs: "It's not like they're a publicly traded company. It's not like there's some need to hit the stock market thing. This is Tim"
Eurogamer • • general
Key Points:
- Former Valve writer Chet Faliszek criticized Epic Games founder Tim Sweeney over the recent layoffs of over 1,000 employees, questioning why staff should work hard when they lack agency and job security.
- Faliszek emphasized that Epic, unlike publicly traded companies, does not face shareholder pressure, yet still made significant cuts and shut down multiple projects, signaling a shift in company focus.
- He contrasted Epic's approach with Valve’s, highlighting that Valve empowered employees with ownership and agency, which fostered dedication and long-term commitment among developers.
- Faliszek expressed disappointment that many veteran Epic employees have left, undermining the company’s ability to build on its legacy, and criticized decisions like raising V-buck prices amid layoffs.
- He concluded that he would not work for a company that does not respect or reward its employees, underscoring the importance of workplace culture and recognition in the gaming industry.
