World of Tanks developer Wargaming has made a significant decision to cease its operations in Russia and Belarus. In an announcement conveyed to Eurogamer via an email statement, the company has carried out a strategic assessment of its business operations globally, in the wake of Russia’s invasion of Ukraine.
The company’s popular live game, World of Tanks, will now be managed by a local studio that is no longer associated with Wargaming. Additionally, Wargaming has initiated the process of shutting down its Minsk studio.
The uncertainty lingers as to what projects Wargaming will undertake next.
Here is the complete statement:
“During the past several weeks, Wargaming has been engaged in a strategic review of its business operations worldwide. The company has determined that it will not possess or operate any businesses in Russia and Belarus.
“As of March 31, the company has transferred its live games business in Russia and Belarus to the local management of Lesta Studio, which is no longer affiliated with Wargaming. The company will not gain any profit from this process, either at present or in the future. Quite the contrary, we anticipate incurring substantial losses as a direct consequence of this decision.
“We will be expediting the operational transition with the utmost speed while strictly adhering to all laws and ensuring the continuous safety and support of our employees. Throughout the transition period, the live products will remain accessible in Russia and Belarus and will be operated by the new owner.
“Wargaming has also embarked on the process of closing its studio in Minsk. This will be carried out in strict accordance with the law. The heads of Products and Services will shortly be meeting with their teams to discuss the impact of this decision on each department.
“We will offer as much severance and support as feasible to the employees affected by this change.”
A comparable statement on the studio’s website further adds: “Despite the enormity of this decision, we, as a company, are confident in the future of our business and are dedicated to delivering high-quality games to our players.”
Wargaming is not the sole company to halt its business in Russia. Ukraine’s Deputy Prime Minister Mykhailo Fedorov called upon companies to cease their support for the Russian markets. Microsoft, PlayStation, Nintendo, CD Projekt, and many others have followed suit.
