Reigns and Card Shark creators Nerial pivot back to their origins as they close doors and lay off staff

Nerial, Developer of Reigns and Card Shark, Enters Hibernation Mode

Following discussions with parent company Devolver Digital, Nerial, the developers behind popular games like Reigns and Card Shark, have announced that they are shutting down or, as they put it, “entering hibernation mode”. This decision comes after 13 years of operation, with the entire team now seeking new opportunities in the industry.

In a joint letter shared on social media, CEO Tamara Alliot and creative director François Alliot explained that they have made the mutual decision with Devolver to end development at the studio. While the specific reasons for the closure were not disclosed, the Alliots expressed the need for a change after more than a decade of leading Nerial.

Despite the closure of Nerial, the Alliots emphasized that this is not the end of their journey in game development. They mentioned that they will be taking a break to reflect on their experiences before returning with a fresh perspective. Tamara Alliot also took to LinkedIn to express her gratitude to the Nerial team and recommended several individuals for potential job opportunities.

François Alliot, on his own LinkedIn page, stated that he plans to go “back to being pure indie”, indicating a shift towards independent game development in the future.

While the news of Nerial’s closure may come as a disappointment to fans of their work, including titles like Card Shark and Reigns, some have raised questions about the circumstances leading to the decision. The mention of “hibernation” and associated layoffs has sparked speculation about the financial situation of Devolver Digital, the parent company.

Devolver Digital has recently faced challenges in the industry, with reports of underperforming titles and a desire to delist from the London Stock Exchange. This context may have influenced the decision to close Nerial, although the exact details remain undisclosed.

Despite the uncertainties surrounding the closure, it is clear that Nerial’s impact on the gaming industry has been significant. The team’s unique approach to game development, as seen in titles like Card Shark and Reigns, has garnered praise and admiration from players worldwide.

As the gaming community bids farewell to Nerial in its current form, there is a sense of solidarity and support for the affected individuals. The Alliots’ commitment to returning to game development after a period of reflection signals hope for the future of their creative endeavors.

In conclusion, the closure of Nerial serves as a reminder of the challenges faced by game developers in an ever-evolving industry. Despite the setbacks, the resilience and passion of individuals like Tamara and François Alliot continue to inspire and drive innovation in the world of gaming.

Our thoughts are with the Nerial team and everyone affected by this decision. We wish them all the best in their future endeavors.