Meta Shuts Down Ready at Dawn Studio: A New Era of VR Innovation

Ready at Dawn Studio Closure Shakes the Gaming Industry

Ready at Dawn , the renowned developer behind hit titles such as The Order : 1886 and Lone Echo , is no more . The closure of the studio was reportedly a strategic move by Meta to align with new budget constraints . The studio , founded in 2003 by industry veterans Ru Weerasuriya , Andrea Pessino , and Didier Malenfant , had a rich history of developing games for various platforms , including PlayStation Portable and PlayStation 4.

In recent years , Ready at Dawn shifted its focus to virtual reality ( VR ) gaming , releasing popular titles like Echo Arena and Lone Echo for Meta Quest and Oculus Rift . The studio 's acquisition by Oculus Studios in 2020 marked a new chapter in its development journey , leading to the creation of acclaimed games like Echo Combat and Lone Echo II . However , despite its success in the VR space , the studio faced challenges that ultimately led to its closure.

The decision to shutter Ready at Dawn Studios comes as part of a larger restructuring effort by Meta , aimed at streamlining operations within its Reality Labs division . While the closure may come as a surprise to many fans and industry insiders , Meta has assured that it is not indicative of broader cuts to its first - party studios . The company remains committed to VR development and is actively looking to retain talented developers from Ready at Dawn.

End of an Era for Ready at Dawn and Oculus Studios

The closure of Ready at Dawn Studios marks the end of an era for the gaming industry , as one of VR 's most celebrated development studios bids farewell . With a portfolio that includes critically acclaimed titles like Lone Echo , Lone Echo 2 , and Echo VR , the studio has left a lasting impact on the VR gaming landscape . The decision to permanently shut down the studio reflects Meta 's shifting priorities and focus on optimizing resources within its Reality Labs division.

Meta 's decision to close Ready at Dawn Studios comes amidst reports of budget cuts within its Reality Labs division , signaling a strategic realignment of resources . While the closure may raise concerns about the future of VR development at Meta , the company has emphasized its commitment to the long - term growth of the VR industry . As Ready at Dawn employees explore new opportunities within Oculus Studios , the legacy of the studio will continue to resonate within the gaming community.

In the wake of Ready at Dawn 's closure , questions loom about the fate of its popular titles like Lone Echo and Echo VR . While Meta has not confirmed any plans for future ports or developments , the studio 's influence on the VR gaming landscape is undeniable . As the gaming industry adapts to changing trends and technologies , the legacy of Ready at Dawn will serve as a reminder of the studio 's pioneering spirit and contribution to the evolution of VR gaming.