Heart Machine, the studio behind Hyper Light Breaker, is scaling back development for the game. This decision comes after the title, a prequel to 2016`s acclaimed Hyper Light Drifter, was released in early access earlier this year following a nearly two-year delay.
According to reports from Game Developer, a representative from Heart Machine stated that these significant layoffs would lead to the conclusion of the project. The studio attributed these changes to broader external pressures, including shifts in funding, corporate mergers, and the challenging operational environment faced by many small studios today.
Despite these cutbacks, Heart Machine clarified that Hyper Light Breaker is not being entirely abandoned. They intend to release a more refined version of the game in January 2026, which will serve as a final major update.
The spokesperson further elaborated to Game Developer, “Our aim is to deliver something meaningful, as polished and complete as possible given our current situation. We are committed to refining existing elements, finalizing key systems, and ensuring the game concludes with a satisfying resolution.”
Hyper Light Drifter, the predecessor to Hyper Light Breaker, received a high rating of 9 out of 10. Heart Machine is also developing another game, Possessor(s), a metroidvania scheduled for release on November 11 for PC and PS5.