Next BioShock Game Faces Turbulence: Layoffs Hit, But New Franchise Lead Named
Next BioShock Game Faces Turbulence: Layoffs Hit, But New Franchise Lead Named
The next chapter in the BioShock saga has been years in the making — and now, it’s hit another rough patch. Cloud Chamber, the studio leading development on the new BioShock title, has confirmed layoffs, adding to growing concerns about the game’s progress. At the same time, 2K Games has brought in a seasoned veteran to take the reins: Rod Fergusson, now officially named Head of the BioShock Franchise.
This comes just weeks after 2K acknowledged that the project was facing development challenges, prompting internal changes. Earlier this month, the publisher removed Kelley Gilmore, studio head, and Hogarth de la Plante, creative director, from their leadership roles at Cloud Chamber.
A Familiar Face Returns to Save the Franchise
In a social media post that quickly went viral, Fergusson confirmed his return to 2K:
“Some of you guessed it — I’m coming back to 2K to lead a series that means a lot to me as the new Head of the BioShock Franchise. I’ll be overseeing Cloud Chamber and the development of the next BioShock game, along with other franchise expansions — including the upcoming Netflix film.”
Fergusson is no stranger to high-pressure studio turnarounds. He previously played a key role in bringing BioShock Infinite to completion in 2013, stepping in during the final stages at Irrational Games when development stalled. His proven track record in rescuing ambitious projects made him a natural choice — and a reassuring one for fans worried the new BioShock might never see the light of day.
Stepping Away from Diablo to Tackle a New Challenge
His appointment comes shortly after he announced his departure from Xbox Game Studios, where he spent five years leading the Diablo franchise at Blizzard. During his tenure, he helped ship Diablo III: Eternal Collection, Diablo Immortal, and was deeply involved in Diablo IV and its expansions.
Despite his success with one of gaming’s biggest RPG franchises, Fergusson has long been linked to narrative-driven, world-rich games — making BioShock a natural fit. In his latest statement, he acknowledged the challenges ahead:
“While I’m excited to get started, I recognize this restructuring is a difficult time for the team. I’m deeply grateful for the work already done, and I’m committed to building a BioShock game we can all be proud of — one that fans will truly love.
Staff Reductions Confirmed by Industry Insider
According to Jason Schreier of Bloomberg, who has a strong track record of accurate industry reporting, an unspecified number of employees at Cloud Chamber are being laid off as part of a broader studio restructure. While 2K hasn’t released official numbers, the move suggests a shift in development strategy — possibly streamlining the team or refocusing the game’s scope.
The layoffs follow a familiar pattern in AAA development: ambitious projects hitting creative or logistical roadblocks, leading to leadership changes and workforce adjustments. But with Fergusson at the helm, many see a chance for course correction — not cancellation.
What This Means for the Future of BioShock
The original BioShock series is celebrated for its deep storytelling, philosophical themes, and immersive world-building. The new installment, set in a reimagined world inspired by global interpretations of utopia, aims to expand the franchise beyond Rapture and Columbia.
With Fergusson’s leadership, the Netflix adaptation in the works, and renewed publisher confidence, there’s cautious optimism that the next BioShock could still deliver on its promise — even if it takes a little longer than expected.
For now, all eyes are on Cloud Chamber. The team may be smaller, but with a proven leader at the front, the dream of a worthy successor to BioShock isn’t dead — it might just be getting a second chance.
