Supermassive Games CEO Steps Down After Directive 8020 Release and Layoffs
Less than two months following the debut of its latest title, 'Directive 8020,' Robert Henrysson, the chief executive officer of Supermassive Games, has declared his resignation from both his position at the studio and his involvement with its parent organization, Nordisk Games.
Henrysson's departure was marked by a reflective message shared on LinkedIn, where he expressed gratitude for his time leading Supermassive Games. He highlighted his efforts in navigating the studio through a period of significant industry transformation, broadening its client base, and cultivating a consistent standard of quality across all facets of game development. He lauded the team as the world's premier storytelling game studio and conveyed his best wishes for their future endeavors. Nordisk Games acknowledged Henrysson's contributions, noting his leadership through considerable change, including his interim CEO role at Avalanche Studios Group. His mandate at Supermassive involved reconstructing the leadership team, refining the studio's strategy, and overseeing the successful delivery of 'Directive 8020.' While the game garnered a 'mixed' user rating on Steam, it achieved the strongest critical reception within its series, a testament to the team's dedication and Henrysson's guidance during a crucial period.
It's also important to note that Henrysson's leadership at Supermassive coincided with two rounds of workforce reductions. The first occurred in February 2024, shortly after he assumed leadership from the departing founders, Pete and Joe Samuels, and the second in July 2025. These layoffs reflect a broader trend across the gaming industry, which has experienced thousands of job cuts in recent years, as the post-pandemic economic realities diverged from earlier expectations. Henrysson intends to spend the summer with his family and remains open to taking on advisory roles and exploring new opportunities within the games sector.
Henrysson's leadership journey at Supermassive Games underscores the dynamic and often challenging nature of the video game industry. Despite economic pressures and necessary restructuring, his commitment to fostering talent and delivering quality products leaves a positive legacy. His forward-looking perspective on future opportunities highlights the resilience and passion that drive innovation in this creative field.
