NetEase has officially shut down T-Minus Zero Entertainment, a studio founded in 2023 by veteran MMO developer Rich Vogel. The closure marks the end of a two-year effort to develop a third-person online multiplayer sci-fi action game, a project that generated early industry interest but ultimately succumbed to challenging market conditions and a failure to secure further funding.
Rich Vogel, noted for his work on iconic MMORPGs such as Ultima Online and Star Wars: The Old Republic, announced the end of the partnership with NetEase on August 26, 2025 via LinkedIn. Vogel expressed gratitude to NetEase for "ample runway and support," which included helping the studio build a fully playable hands-on demo that attracted notable attention. Despite this progress, Vogel revealed that the current investment climate prevented T-Minus Zero from obtaining the necessary capital to continue development.
The studio's team included several industry veterans from studios such as BioWare and Bethesda, including Fallout 76 design lead Mark Tucker and senior producer Scott Malone, underscoring the experienced talent behind the project. Yet, the studio’s dissolution reflects NetEase's broader strategic pivot amidst a tough market, with multiple closures in Western studios over the past year, including Worlds Untold and Jar Of Sparks.
A NetEase spokesperson noted that the decision to close T-Minus Zero was made "with careful consideration," praising the "bold vision" of the partnership but citing a reassessment of business priorities. The publisher indicated it is working with affected staff and exploring possible next steps, though no further funding will be provided.
The closure highlights ongoing challenges in the AAA gaming market, where high development costs, market saturation, and shifting consumer habits—especially in online multiplayer experiences—have placed strain on studios. Moreover, this comes at a time when the industry is undergoing changes with heightened unionization efforts and calls for more sustainable work environments, factors that influence operational costs and developer retention.
Despite the setbacks, Vogel remains optimistic about the studio's potential. He encouraged industry colleagues to reach out for collaboration opportunities on behalf of the skilled team members now seeking new positions.
As one of several Western studios recently shuttered by NetEase, the future of ambitious projects led by veteran developers faces uncertainty amid evolving market dynamics. The gaming community will be watching closely how these trends shape the industry's landscape moving forward.
