Perfect World Hit With Layoffs

Though there's yet to be any official word -- which will probably include language like "restructuring to better position ourselves for a competitive marketplace" -- it appears that Perfect World has been hit hard by a wave of layoffs this week.

MassivelyOP is reporting that the layoffs, called a "slaughter" by some involved, occurred yesterday and accounted for 18 people at Cryptic Studios alone. Champions Online is reportedly in a form of "maintenance mode," while former City of Heroes lead designer Matt Miller was among those let go, though he found time to plug the Hex $100k tournament on his way out the door.

So I got laid off yesterday, but on the bright side I have more time to practice for the $100k @HexTCG tournament: http://t.co/uvjE2lm1hg

— Matt Miller (@MMODesigner) March 17, 2015

Perfect World is working on another, "top secret" project, which apparently hasn't been affected by the layoffs, but MassivelyOP's source -- who is still employed -- admits to a "somber" feel around the office. We'll update this piece as we hear more confirmed news.