Conflict with multiple consequences, the war in Ukraine continues to affect the world of video games. If we know that the Ukrainian studio GSC Game World has found refuge in the Czech Republic in order to complete the development of STALKER 2, it is the turn of the Wargaming.net studio to take a decision that is radical to say the least. In a press release, the firm announces that they will leave their own countries, Russia and Belarus, as soon as possible. A choice heavy with meaning and consequences, since the company affirms that there will no longer be any subsidiary linked to Wargaming from afar, as closely in these countries concerned. It is even specified that the management of all their games has been entrusted to Lesta Studio, based in Saint Petersburg but which is no longer part of Wargaming.
Over the past few weeks, Wargaming has conducted a strategic review of business operations around the world. The company has decided that it will not own or operate any businesses in Russia and Belarus.
Effective March 31, the company transferred its live gaming operations in Russia and Belarus to local Lesta Studio management, which is no longer affiliated with Wargaming. The company will not profit from this process, either today or in the future. On the contrary, we expect to incur substantial losses as a direct result of this decision.
We will complete the operational transition as quickly as required while remaining in full compliance with all laws and ensuring the continued safety and support of our employees. During the transition period, live products will remain available in Russia and Belarus and will be operated by the new owner.
Wargaming has also begun the process of closing its studio in Minsk. It will take place in strict compliance with the law. The Product and Services Managers will meet soon with their teams to discuss the impact of this decision on each department.
We will provide as much severance and support as possible to employees affected by the change.
Essentially known for its World of Tanks license, but also its World of Warships and World of Warplanes versions, Wargaming is a company that was founded in Minsk in 1998 and employs no less than 5,500 employees spread across the globe. . Despite his Russian origins, the publisher condemns the acts committed by Putin and his army and did not hesitate to fire on the spot the creative director of Wold of Tanks, Sergey Burkatovskiy, who had publicly displayed his support for Russia and its acts. A sanction was taken in the process, in addition to the deletion of the Facebook post, explaining that “Sergey’s opinion completely contradicts the company’s position. He is no longer an employee of Wargaming.” With this departure from the country of origin, Wargaming obviously condemns this whole war in Ukraine.