MercurySteam's 10-Hour Workday Sparks Controversy Amidst Layoffs and Allegations

MercurySteam's Demanding Work Environment: The Ten-Hour Day Controversy

The creative minds behind acclaimed titles like Metroid Dread and Castlevania: Lords of Shadow, MercurySteam, are facing intense scrutiny over their labor practices. Reports from Spanish publication 3DJuegos, backed by over a dozen anonymous employee testimonies, paint a stark picture of a studio where an unofficial ten-hour workday has become the norm. This demanding schedule is officially termed 'irregular distribution of working days' (DIJ) by management, a euphemism that has drawn considerable criticism.

Initially presented as a temporary measure during a perceived crisis, these extended hours quickly morphed into a persistent expectation. Employees describe being told that overtime was 'absolutely mandatory,' blurring the lines between standard and additional work without clear compensation strategies. One former employee shared, "They spoke of the need for overtime as if we were in some kind of crisis." Crucially, these extra hours were often communicated verbally, bypassing formal tracking and raising suspicions that they went unpaid.

Post-'Blades of Fire' Pressure and a Climate of Fear

The situation reportedly intensified following the release of Blades of Fire, a title that failed to meet sales expectations. This commercial disappointment triggered an increased tempo and pressure within the studio, exacerbating an already strained work environment. The psychological toll on the team was palpable, further aggravated by a wave of layoffs beginning in August 2025. This unsettling period within MercurySteam mirrors broader anxieties gripping the entire game development industry, characterized by widespread redundancies and a growing concern over the impact of artificial intelligence.

Allegations of Retaliation and a Chilling Effect on Culture

Beyond the sheer workload, employees have come forward with disturbing allegations of intimidation, retaliation, and punishment for attempting to exercise basic rights, such as taking leave or sick days. One heartbreaking account details the termination of an employee after requesting reduced hours due to his wife's complicated pregnancy. Another individual recounted being sidelined after an illness, only to be dismissed for 'insufficient performance.' While a Spanish trade union, CSVI, has corroborated some of these claims, a counter-narrative from another group of employees has emerged, adding a layer of complexity to the unfolding situation. Nevertheless, the consistent reporting of a de facto ten-hour workday and an unofficial policy of pressure remains a significant concern.

Silencing Dissent and the Future of MercurySteam

The studio's internal culture appears to have shifted towards increased control, with reports of restricted informal communication, including the closure of non-work-related chat channels. Physical barriers have also been erected in the office, creating a more sterile and less collaborative atmosphere. Amidst these internal challenges, MercurySteam is believed to be quietly developing a new, unannounced project. For fans of the studio's work, particularly the acclaimed Metroid Dread, this turbulent period raises questions about the sustainability of such demanding conditions and the future of their beloved franchises. It's a stark reminder that behind the captivating worlds of video games often lie complex human stories and challenging work environments.