Jagex Confirms Layoffs and Puts Project Zanaris on Hold

Image: Jagex/RuneScape Dragonwilds

RuneScape developer Jagex has confirmed a round of layoffs primarily affecting non-game development roles, as the studio restructures its operations to sharpen its focus on core projects like Old School RuneScape (OSRS).

In a statement provided to PC Gamer, the UK-based studio stated the move is part of a broader strategy to "reduce complexity, increase agility, and ensure we are fully focused on the areas that matter most—our games, our players, and our future."

While the exact number of impacted employees has not been disclosed, Jagex clarified that the majority of job reductions were in operations and administrative support, rather than in development or player-facing teams.

The layoffs were first spotted by players on the RuneScape subreddit, where users noticed missing community moderators. Jagex moderator Hooli confirmed the restructuring, assuring players that the studio's content roadmap remains intact.

Project Zanaris Indefinitely Paused

Alongside the layoffs, Jagex also announced that Project Zanaris, a new game initiative, has been put on indefinite hold. According to the developer, the decision was made to better allocate resources to Old School RuneScape (OSRS), following mixed community feedback and internal concerns that Zanaris would not meet expectations in its current form.

“We're confident this change will ultimately strengthen OSRS, adding immediate value, better services, and exciting new experiences,” the company wrote in a blog post.

Staff working on Zanaris are being reassigned to support existing projects, particularly updates and initiatives within OSRS.

Leadership Changes and Industry Context

These developments come just months after longtime CEO Phil Mansell stepped down, with Jon Bellamy, formerly of Huuuge Games, taking over leadership in March 2025.

Jagex joins a growing list of studios facing cuts in 2025, alongside Electronic Arts, Ubisoft, Playtonic, and others. Despite hopes of a recovery in the games industry, widespread layoffs continue to impact developers across the board.

For now, Jagex remains committed to its flagship franchises and says its current roadmap for RuneScape and OSRS remains unchanged.