NCSoft is shuttering the developer behind City of Heroes. In a statement posted on the game’s website, Paragon Studios has thanked fans and outlined the closure.
In a realignment of company focus and publishing support, NCsoft has made the decision to close Paragon Studios. Effective immediately, all development on City of Heroes will cease and we will begin preparations to sunset the world’s first, and best, Super Hero MMORPG before the end of the year.
It’s thought that some 80 people will lose their jobs as the studio is closed. The message compliments their talent and creativity, urging expanding studios to hire them.
News like this is always a blow for the entire industry. The only silver lining is that there are some studios out there still expanding and those with the talent and ability will always find a new home and a new outlet for their skills.
There’s no better way to sign off from news like this than the way Andy Belford signed off the message himself:
I implore you all, focus on the good things of CoH and Paragon Studios. Don’t dwell on the “how” or the “why”, but rather join us in celebrating the legacy of an amazing partnership between the players and the development team.
Thank you, and I’ll see you in the skies, one last time.
Classy.
Dazbobaby
Better than getting fired via SMS. A lot better.
It’s a shame though, I just hope this kind of action sees more indie studio’s popping up and getting successful.
hazelam
that’s a shame, i had a lot of fun with that game back when it launched.
it was probably the first mmo i ever subscribed to.
that first year i was pretty addicted to it.
it still remains one of the best mmos i’ve played.
anyway, best of luck to all the staff, hopefully they can find work sooner rather than later.
Sympozium
never got to play it but sad to hear the news.
jonny_bolton
City Of Heroes was so much fun. I played it for about 18 months when it first came out and I always regret not having the time to play it more.
Good luck everyone involved.