Tencent reportedly closes Montreal studio after no major releases

Tencent has closed its TiMi Montreal studio, founded in 2021, due to high development costs and no major game releases. Despite a team led by a notable director, the studio failed to produce standalone titles, affecting its viability. This closure continues Tencent's trend of scaling back operations in North America after previously shutting its LA studio in 2023.

Key Points

• Tencent closed TiMi Montreal studio due to lack of major releases and high development costs.
• The studio, established in 2021, was aimed at AAA game development but did not release any standalone titles.
• Instead, it contributed to existing games like Pokémon Unite and Call of Duty: Mobile.
• Several former employees confirmed the closure online, indicating a lack of surprise about the development.
• Tencent had previously closed its Los Angeles studio in 2023 as part of a strategy to adjust overseas operations.

Relevance

• The closure highlights ongoing challenges in the gaming industry, specifically regarding escalating development costs.
• Tech giants are increasingly scrutinizing their overseas investments due to financial pressures.
• In 2025, the trend of companies focusing on cost-effective game development methods, such as using AI and cloud technology, is amplified.

The closure of TiMi Montreal underscores the heightened challenges in the gaming market, as companies like Tencent reassess their strategies in an increasingly costly landscape.