NetEase Shuts Down T-Minus Zero Entertainment
NetEase has made the decision to close down T-Minus Zero Entertainment, a studio founded in 2023 by Rich Vogel, a former BioWare developer and executive producer of Star Wars: The Old Republic.
The studio was working on an online multiplayer sci-fi action game with contributions from ex-BioWare and Bethesda staff, including Mark Tucker and Scott Malone. Unfortunately, due to current market conditions, the project and the studio are no longer viable.
In a LinkedIn post on August 26th, Vogel announced the end of the partnership with NetEase. It has now been confirmed that the studio has been shut down due to lack of funding.
Vogel expressed his gratitude towards NetEase for their support and mentioned the challenges faced in securing funding. Despite this setback, Vogel remains optimistic about the potential of their playable demo.
Senior NetEase staff have praised the studio’s work, with Simon Zhu and Cisco Maldonado commending the prototype and concept developed by T-Minus Zero Entertainment.
A NetEase spokesperson stated that the decision to close the studio was made after careful consideration, and they are now working with the studio to provide support and explore future options.
NetEase has recently downsized staff and projects, including shutting down studios founded by prominent figures in the industry such as Mac Walters and Jerry Hook.
Our best wishes go out to the former employees of T-Minus Zero Entertainment as they navigate this transition.
