Bit Reactor starts bringing back furloughed Star Wars Zero Company developers
Bit Reactor has begun returning some employees to work after furloughing roughly 80% of its staff without pay before Star Wars Zero Company launched in late August. CEO Greg Foertsch said the decision was difficult but necessary, and the studio is continuing to support the game. Reports indicate the returning workers bring paid headcount to more than half of its pre-furlough level, leaving many still unpaid.
Bit Reactor has begun restoring a portion of its workforce after roughly four-fifths of employees were placed on unpaid leave before Star Wars Zero Company arrived in late August. CEO Greg Foertsch described the move as painful yet required, citing unforeseen business circumstances, and said the studio remains committed to supporting the title.
Game File reporting indicates the recalled workers lift paid staffing above 50% of the pre-furlough total, though numerous employees are still waiting. Newzoo ranked Zero Company sixth among August PC releases by revenue across six major Western markets. A former staffer criticized the situation, saying the team faced uncertainty while the game performed well.
The furloughs and partial recalls may affect Bit Reactor employees most directly, leaving many without pay while a subset returns. For players, continued support for Star Wars Zero Company could depend on how quickly staffing stabilizes. Within the wider games industry, the case may add to conversations about launch-period labor practices, transparency, and how commercial success is shared, potentially influencing how developers and fans view studio stability.