Layoff announcements at mobile game developer Cat Daddy Games, operated by 2K.
Take-Two Interactive, the parent company of 2K, reported a "solid" financial quarter in February, with the mobile division accounting for over 64% of recurrent consumer spending and more than 50% of the company's total net bookings during the second quarter of the last fiscal year. However, the mobile studio Cat Daddy Games, owned by 2K, has recently faced challenges, with reports of layoffs affecting several employees.
In November 2024, Take-Two announced plans to create mobile-first experiences for several console and PC titles. However, the company delayed the release of Grand Theft Auto VI to 2026 and, in 2025, Cat Daddy Games conducted layoffs. The specific reasons for the layoffs have not been detailed, but industry context suggests broader challenges affecting mobile game development studios under large publishers.
The layoffs impacted the studio directly, reducing its workforce and potentially affecting ongoing projects or future development capacity. Producer Nicki Beaudry, a key member of the team, was among those let go in late May, while 3D animator Peter Hon announced his departure in March due to "corporate restructuring."
While immediate prospects appear uncertain, Cat Daddy Games remains part of 2K’s portfolio, a significant player in gaming. The studio's future likely depends on 2K's strategic focus on mobile gaming and its willingness to invest in rebuilding or reshaping the studio post-layoffs. The mobile gaming sector remains competitive, and Cat Daddy Games' ability to adapt will be crucial.
No official comments have been made about studio closure, suggesting that Cat Daddy Games is continuing operations but with a leaner team. Several employees, including live-operations specialist Kayde Ahern, senior producer Bob Givnin, and live ops producer Jeff Kalles, have announced their departures, citing layoffs as the reason.
On a positive note, Take-Two Interactive is still projecting about 5 percent growth in revenue and net bookings for the year ahead, and NBA 2K25 has sold almost 10 million units worldwide, a 7 percent increase on NBA 2K24 sales during the same timeframe. NBA 2K beat internal expectations during this quarter.
In summary, the 2025 layoffs at Cat Daddy Games reflect ongoing industry adjustments within the mobile gaming division of 2K, with a direct impact on employees and a cautious future outlook dependent on strategic decisions by the parent company.
In the aftermath of the 2025 layoffs at Cat Daddy Games, the studio's future seems to hinge on 2K's strategic focus on mobile gaming and their investment in rebuilding or reshaping the studio, as they navigate the competitive landscape of the mobile gaming sector. Meanwhile, Take-Two Interactive continues to project growth in revenue and net bookings for the coming year, with NBA 2K25 selling nearly 10 million units worldwide.
