Aheartfulofgames, the Spanish studio behind the highly anticipated game Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Mutants Unleashed, is facing an impending closure as its owner, Outright Games, has indicated plans to make the entire team redundant.

In a heartbreaking announcement, Aheartfulofgames expressed that this decision would lead to the permanent shutdown of their studio, putting 28 passionate professionals out of work. The studio received support in voicing these concerns from the CSVI game workers union.

A Troubled Acquisition

UK-based publisher Outright Games, which specializes in family-oriented licensed games, acquired Aheartfulofgames in 2022. Prior to this, the Madrid-based studio proved its mettle with titles like DreamWorks Dragons: Legends of The Nine Realms and DreamWorks Spirit: Lucky's Big Adventure.

In their statement, Aheartfulofgames noted that under tight constraints, they successfully delivered Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Mutants Unleashed on time, meeting the commercial expectations set by Outright.

From Ambition to Uncertainty

Problems emerged when, in August 2024, Aheartfulofgames began developing a new project at Outright's request, even before receiving a formal license. However, this initiative was halted the following January due to reported disinterest from Outright.

According to the studio, a change in leadership at Outright led to a focus on cheaper, quicker projects, which hindered their ability to pursue more ambitious endeavors.

Shocking Inaction and Communication Breakdown

By April 2025, Aheartfulofgames was abruptly informed that both ongoing projects would not proceed, even after significant efforts had been made. This was coupled with diminishing communication from Outright, culminating in their exclusion from crucial corporate meetings.

In June, the studio received verbal confirmation of the closure, sparking outrage over Outright's justification of the layoffs despite the company continuing operations through outsourced studios, raising questions about the validity of their claims.

A Call for Justice

With titles like Dora Rainforest Rescue and Bratz: Rhythm and Style being outsourced to others, the studio argued they could have managed one of these projects while continuing their creative work. Their consistent delivery of successful projects left many wondering why Outright opted to cut jobs instead of exploring alternative solutions.

In response to the turmoil, Aheartfulofgames has formed a union section, backed by the Video Game Union Coordination (CSVI), aimed at protecting workers' rights and dignity.

Outright Games Responds

Outright Games Group CEO Robin Flodin acknowledged the difficult situation, stating that a formal consultation process is underway regarding the closure, and assured ongoing discussions with employee representatives to find the best possible outcome.

As this gripping story unfolds, industry watchers are left questioning the future of creativity within the gaming industry and the implications of such corporate decisions on talented individuals dedicated to bringing joy to players worldwide.