Sandsoft shuts down Riyadh and Barcelona studios

• Sandsoft is closing its Riyadh and Barcelona studios, affecting around 65 employees.
• CEO David Fernández says Sandsoft is doubling down on publishing for long-term growth.
• A spokesperson said the closures reflect a shift in focus—not the quality of the studios' work.

Update: Sandsoft has said up to 21 staff will be laid off.

Original story: Saudi-based mobile games outfit Sandsoft is shutting down its studios in Riyadh and Barcelona. 

As reported by MobileGamer.biz, it's claimed the closures will impact around 65 employees in development, with approximately 40 job cuts in Barcelona and 25 in Riyadh. 

“Sandsoft is doubling down on publishing, an area of our business where we’ve already demonstrated significant growth and see significant opportunities for future success," said Sandsoft CEO David Fernández.

A spokesperson added: “This isn’t about the quality of work or talent at these studios – our teams have been incredible. It’s really about concentrating our resources where we can have the biggest impact and build sustainable growth. 

“After reviewing our business performance over recent months, we realised publishing is where we excel and where our future lies.”

Workforce reduction 

With the closure of its Riyadh and Barcelona studios, Sandsoft is exiting game development to focus solely on publishing.

The company opened its Barcelona studio in late 2023 and later expanded to a larger office in September 2024 located in San Antoni. 

The latest news comes after Fernández told PocketGamer.biz earlier this year that the company had experienced “remarkable" internal growth. 

“Our team expanded by 34% in 2024, and we take great pride in fostering a diverse and inclusive workplace. Today, our workforce represents nearly 30 nationalities,” he said at the time.

He added the company was looking for new titles to publish and has “several more games in the pipeline".