SEGA of America has announced plans to lay off 61 employees, constituting approximately 14% of its workforce, despite the successful launch of their latest game, Like a Dragon: Infinite Wealth, which enjoys a 90 Metacritic rating. The layoffs are part of a wider trend in video game industry downsizing which also affected big names like Riot Games and Microsoft. A silver lining for the affected staff is the advance warning provided by a WARN notice, a legal requirement in California that gives employees 60 days notice before mass layoffs. SEGA is also expecting the release of Persona 3 Reload, another potential success, but this hasn't changed the company's decision to reduce staff.

How does the WARN notice benefit employees facing layoffs?

The WARN notice offers employees a preparatory period by legally requiring companies to inform staff of significant layoffs 60 days in advance. This advance notice can help employees seek new job opportunities and manage their finances before the layoffs officially take effect.

SEGA of America is widely recognized for its role in popular video game franchises such as Sonic the Hedgehog and the Persona series. With a history dating back to the 1980s, SEGA has been a key player in the gaming industry, creating both home consoles and iconic games. Despite fluctuations in its business, SEGA remains an influential company with a dedicated fan base. The impact of these layoffs may be significant given SEGA's esteemed position in the industry, but the company's track record suggests resilience and the potential to bounce back in the future.