There is Always Hope! Laid Off After 16 Years in Video Game Industry

I was part of a wave of video game layoffs, along with my team. The entire game and tech industry seems to be in freefall (Bungie, Epic Games, Crystal Dynamics, Amazon, EA and more). This is the third time I've been through this. Most say to be silent. I'm done with that. Here's everything I've learned on how to survive and thrive after your job disappears.
Do not be afraid. THERE IS ALWAYS HOPE.
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CHAPTERS:
0:00 Introduction
1:07 How I Started My Video Game Career
2:24 Layoff 1 (Wargaming)
4:37 Layoff 2 (Essential vs Non-Essential)
5:35 Layoff 3 (Crystal Dynamics)
6:34 What To Do When You've Been Laid Off
8:32 Why I Have Hope
10:50 What's Next?!
#jasonexplainsthings #videogamelayoffs #gaminglayoffs #gamingnews #techlayoffs

[@JasonExplainsThings]

Update! 🥳 kzbin.info/www/bejne/eoWnpIB3oNSborc

[@JasonExplainsThings]

I just posted this on LinkedIn. That was a fun, cathartic moment. 😅🎉

[@thatDIYlife]

Best of luck to you and your fam. I’ve been in a similar life situation as you the past year. 2024 is THE year to take a risk and bet on yourself.

[@lucasr5675]

Your BEST VIDEO of all. God Bless you Jason. You are onto something and he will show you the path!

[@imanikehead2]

Thanks for being so open about your situation. A lot of people have battles that nobody knows about. I have no doubt you will bounce back from this setback stronger. Remember pivot don’t panic.

[@JasonExplainsThings]

Thanks, yeah I'm not panicking. The first time I did. The 2nd time I did as well. This time I'm just going to be productive and open. I'm very excited to see what happens next.

[@Appalachian4WD]

Been in your shoes many times as well. My wife and I also have our own business and it is either feast or famine. Hard times make the good times that much better and we appreciate them even more.

[@aevnate4140]

Good job at staying positive. I love the thumbnail: upper left: Victory! bottom: Laid off!🤣

[@JasonExplainsThings]

Thanks Nate! Yeah that thumbnail was fun to make. "How clickbaity do I want to make this? Hmm. Should the arrow be pointing at my head? Yes, yes it should."

[@ARTICDRUMMER15]

Great video Jason, God bless!

[@JoeBobTheTROLL]

Came here because i love video games but in reality, God sent me here to be reminded everything will be alright. TY!

[@TinkerersAdventure]

Always love your energy and personality Jason. I look forward to seeing your next adventure! God bless!

[@JasonExplainsThings]

That means a ton Kai. Your channe(l and it blowing up) gives me a ton of personal encouragement. It's awesome to have friends and connections with people like you who I haven't even met in person.

[@rjvsmb]

Yes, I'm still watching this.

[@JasonExplainsThings]

🙌

[@colinburke2253]

Just was catching up with your videos and watched this one. The timing couldn’t be more impeccable. I was “laid off” one week ago after nearly 22 years with the company. It was a huge kick in the gut. The insurance industry I was in has become increasingly difficult and the company I worked for has been slowly taken over by people who have no interest in listening to how we made it successful for so many years. I’ve been saying this happened for a reason and now I get to reinvent myself. I have no idea what that will be, but I’ll find it. Thanks for the inspiration and God bless!

[@treaddirt]

Jason you inspire me, thank you. Your faith and attitude will provide you a happy and fulfilling life. Being 69 years old I have witnessed many times that faith and attitude will pull you through. You’re in my prayers. Thanks for the great videos.

[@jeffhubbard8432]

Thank you for being so open. It's is a message a lot of us need to hear.

[@Diana-gm8bc]

Hi Jason, I just came across your channel and I appreciate your transparency about all the bad that comes with working in this field. I teared up listening to your verse notes. I feel like many people I've talked to that work in this industry tend to always talk about the "good stuff" through a rose filter but hearing your honesty is extremely refreshing. I just felt the need to comment as I haven't really vented about this with anyone. I have been unemployed since last year summer working in the computer gaming/tech hardware space and it has been tough seeing constant rejection emails and interviews that leave me ghosted. It makes me feel like I am underappreciated and disposable. As depressing and hopeless as those sound, it's given me a lot of time to reflect on my life and what I want to gain moving forward. 2024 will be my year to hopefully land a good job again with the little hope I have to cling on; God bless you, and your video was great!

[@JasonExplainsThings]

Hey Diana, I'm right there with you. Since the layoff and making this video its been a constant grind of making KZbin videos, applying for work, looking for side work... and being self aware enough to recognize when my negative tendencies start creeping up again. It has sucked. Hearing no over and over again sucks. But I keep telling myself that "no" answers mean that wasn't what God wants me to do. But I will say things can turn around quickly. God Bless you and your family. I'll end with this... and please remember I'm not "preaching" like I have all this down perfectly (I do NOT). I'm telling myself this a few times a week when I start getting angry or demoralized... Matt 6: 31-33 "Therefore do not be anxious, saying, ‘What shall we eat?’ or ‘What shall we drink?’ or ‘What shall we wear?’ 32 For the Gentiles seek after all these things, and your heavenly Father knows that you need them all. 33 But seek first the kingdom of God and his righteousness, and all these things will be added to you. " I'm literally working on my demo reel today. It's almost done! Woot!

[@thisguy7254]

Love the message! Sorry you have to deal with this, but like you siad, it happened for a reason. You will find greater and better things. I will certainly be here to watch the videos, whatever direction the channel goes. Been following since the enduro (I was there too), and I don't plan on stopping.

[@ImFastrnU]

Jason, thank you for your channel and thank you for being open about your faith. It seems so rare in this day and age. May God bless you in your future endeavors and may God bless your family. P.S. I mostly show up for your old Dodge videos, I have an 83 W150, and love those videos!

[@gabriellesnow_ui]

Thanks for sharing! Being laid off in the game industry is a right of passage (in a sad way). Im sorry you were laid off but love your attitude on it. God is good and has a great plan for you and your family!

[@patmoore9578]

Thank you Jason for that touching video. God is with you kiddo. I'm just send that

[@Rhamsanavong]

Thank you for sharing this. To be transparent and share that with the world, this is what makes you different and unique from the rest. You are here to inspire us all with your experiences, knowledge, and laughs. Never give up, never surrender!!!

[@JasonExplainsThings]

You're Galaxy Quest reference has made my day.

[@donteatananimal]

I appreciate you and thank you for all the great content over the past year!

[@JasonExplainsThings]

Woah. Thanks!

[@grantcarroll5696]

I hate that you are going through this period. You shared a wonderful testimony. I am confident there are better things in store for you. Keep living your faith.

[@JasonExplainsThings]

I'm confident that's the case as well. It was time. I might've even prayed that it was time to move on from that job. Not exactly how I would've chosen my exit to happen. LOL. But like I said... I'm not in charge here.

[@ChloeKuo]

Jason--loved hearing about your background, you are very impressive! No wonder the Jason Explains Things are edited so well 😊 But keep your head up, big things are on the horizon for you! Reach out if there's anything you need!!

[@JasonExplainsThings]

Thanks Chloe!

[@AndrewAtkinsVideo]

This is an amazing! I've been there and totally relate on SOOOO many levels. Well done.

[@reygomezhvac8346]

That's an awesome attitude. I hope and pray u and your family get through this and I know u will. I will keep watching your channel and also spreading the channel as much as I can some people don't know we have a KZbinr in Yakima and I think that's awesome. Keep up the great work my friend.

[@JasonExplainsThings]

Thanks Rey! God bless. 🤜🤛

[@MrTomTeachesAgain]

I watched your video all the way through. I went through a layoff quite a ways back. I wish that there was KZbin in the 90's and I could have seen this video. While my religious and philosophical beliefs don't exactly match yours, I see wisdom in what you say. I got a new job, made a disastrous job change, subbed for a while (I taught) and finally got the job I really loved after a few years. You're right. We can't do it alone. Don't drop into the pits. Accept that we aren't perfect and we all make mistakes. And having a relationship with something greater than yourself is undeniably important. I wish you the best. I will keep you in my thoughts and prayers. Best of luck. Have hope.

[@WrestleSubtitle]

Hey J! Max here. Just wanted to drop in and say that your videos are incredible and you have such a knack for editing - anywhere is going to be lucky to have you on their payroll!

[@JasonExplainsThings]

Many thanks Max! It was a pleasure working with you.

[@emilio8982]

Jason, thank you for sharing so much about your life. You and your family will be guided and make it through. Love your videos! Im a fan and always have been. You got this!

[@taffy1564]

Love your videos bro, I will watch anything you put out!

[@semperliberi]

You're a good man, Jason. There will certainly be a reward stored up in heaven for you.

[@kennethburton9165]

The first video of yours I watched was your six first 4Runner mods and today while sitting in a laundromat in Salem Oregon washing big blankets, I came across your channel again. I’ll say this that I will be praying for you my brother in Christ. Praise Jesus and keep up the good fight.

[@scottdouglas76]

Fantastic video. Keep up the awesome work, at home and at work!

[@jamesbispo391]

As a fellow video game nerd who became interested in off roading this video was a great surprise to me.. love your honesty and commitment!

[@terryridgway6419]

Thanks for your hard work and great videos! Wishing you much success on your next adventure! Keep the faith and keep the videos coming!

[@JasonExplainsThings]

Thanks very much!

[@johnowen3102]

Good luck with your job search. Love your videos keep them coming

[@jonathanblack3351]

We watch you because you are you! Keep on keeping on, brother!

[@sandbox_adventures]

Hang in there man! Good things to come I’m sure.

[@kayagon]

wish you the best, thanks for the video.

[@damuckster68x]

Another excellent video! God bless you and your family and I hope you find new employment soon!

[@MountainHobbler]

I felt this! I also am in tech, been working with automotive management software and been laid off twice with zero notice. Severance packages are nice but what would be nicer is job security. I am done working for billion dollar corporations I would rather find a "smaller pond" where I can be more instrumental to the success of the business rather just another cog.

[@JasonExplainsThings]

For sure my friend. I'm in a similar mindset at this point.

[@gerardomata.costarica]

I love you Jason! My favorite video from your channel!

[@JasonExplainsThings]

I appreciate it sir.

[@JEFFMcGuire]

AWESOME video my dude! Sums up the experience very well and I'm happy to see the camp fires smoke has a sense of humor about it too! ;)

[@JasonExplainsThings]

Thanks my friend!

[@BVGarside]

You're amazing for this J!

[@JasonExplainsThings]

Thanks Brion! Hope you're well my friend.

[@psychodocter]

Gr8 vid Jason! Keep on keeping on! ❤️

[@JasonExplainsThings]

On it.

[@rexremrn]

Hang in there Jason, everything happens for a reason. Another door will open for you. Thank you for sharing your faith. Hopefully your channel will grow. Praying for you and your family.

[@bruceseghers]

Great Video Jason.. I have been there and know exactly how you feel and what you are going through. "You present thoughts determine your future!"

[@JasonExplainsThings]

Thanks Bruce! Yeah I'm definitely excited to see what happens next. I have no idea what it'll be but I think things ran their course. I'm really feeling for the hundreds who've also been laid off since I was in late September.

[@n1sm0r]

This is a great video Jason. Thank you for your honesty and vulnerability. I’m an atheist myself but I very much admire what you get out of your faith, and hope everyone can find their own peace. We can have different beliefs and still be brothers. Love all your content and hope you’ll continue with KZbin for years to come.

[@JasonExplainsThings]

Well said sir. Couldn't agree more.

[@Chesapeake_Frontier]

God is good all the time! Glad to hear you're a brother in Christ! Thanks for this video. Also your job explains why you're videos are always done so well

[@JasonExplainsThings]

Appreciate it sir. Yeah I've been editing video since 2000. It's what I love to do.

[@kcbreezy8774]

God bless you Jason. It’s a beautiful thing you have kept your head up and pushed your family through the hard times. Again God bless you and your family!!!

[@JasonExplainsThings]

Appreciate it man. I’m frankly surprised how it’s been so different. Part of it was I promised my oldest daughter it wouldn’t be like last time. Every time I’m feeling down… I’m praying about it. For now we’re playing the how little money can we spend game. 🙌

[@Tommyboy0670]

@@JasonExplainsThings, Hang in there Jason. Your girls won't remember how much stuff they have or don't have, they'll remember the time spent and memories created with their mom and dad. May God bless and keep you all in his grace and love.

[@thejdshipley]

Amen and Hallelujah!!! Psalm 40:2-3. Most are familiar with v.2 the Lord’s rescuing and redemption of us. But so many blow past v.3 where we stand and shout His praises so others may know and share in grace and salvation. Hallelujah for standing and shouting Jason!!! This video may not get many views but whatever it does get the Lord will use for His glory and change the world!!! Numbers 6:24-26

[@nickobergshow]

Yes! Thanks for the video, just what I needed! Had to give up a good job when we moved across the country and have been on the job hunt for a few months. Thanks for sharing your faith! God is good!

[@JasonExplainsThings]

Thanks Nick! He is indeed. The plot continues to thicken. 😅

[@MagneticTaco19]

Great video man. Sorry you’ve been on the rough end of things so much. In late 2020 I was laid off for the first time after a decade with a company. Basically, huge company purchased by a bigger company and layoffs were the norm after that. With all the corporate policy changes and micromanagement, I was pretty well checked out anyways. Everything came down to timing though. I had just closed a refi on the house and paid off the truck on Friday. The following Monday (my day off) I got an email stating I was being laid off, with benefits. I was able to take a year off work before having to join the workforce again.

[@JasonExplainsThings]

Woah! That’s great.

[@flojobean]

I've been enjoying all of the zr2 bison videos, but I enjoy the realness of this way more. God bless and thanks for all of the great content!

[@JasonExplainsThings]

Very generous! Thank you very much.

[@joshuadavis4038]

Cheers, I rarely tap the like button, much less leave a comment. You earned that like. From one like minded guy to another, FORGE on!

[@aaronlabeau]

Thank you for sharing Jason! The honesty and vulnerability are palpable in the video. Sad to say I've been there too but came out stronger on the other side of it. Love the scripture based message!

[@78jorgesam]

That was a great story man. Love your videos, your energy, and all positive. wish you the best. Since you have time I recommend the book The Magic of Surrender. awesome audio book.

[@ExpeditionNowhere]

Hang in there, brother. Indeed God has a wonderful plan for you and your family. God bless you mightily!

[@bryanleverett2830]

Got here via the mini bike content. Keep it up man !

[@JasonExplainsThings]

Nice! If you haven’t check out the Gambler race from this summer! It’s rad and missed by most folks.

[@4qu4]

Thanks for this video Jason. I'm not religious, but I can appreciate your message and it gives me hope to move forward in life. I wish you and your family the best!

[@lysawy82]

All the best , been there sucks heads up and move on...

[@lawrencematos7493]

AMEN AMEN AMEN 🙏, My brother.

[@DarinBrown]

YES!! GOD IS GOOD!!!!!!!! So awesome!

[@stayraddad4638]

Well done Jason, using whatever comes your way to share the gospel and love of Jesus.

[@liquidhalf]

I've been a fan for years...and had no idea that you were in games like myself. Sadly, I'm in a meetings today about layoffs as well. The timing of this video is uncanny for me. I'm sorry to hear you were affected by a layoff as well.

[@JasonExplainsThings]

Sorry man! It sucks… and gets worse after the dust settles but can work for the better soon after. But it’s a hard shock to the system. Stay busy, lean on others, and God has been a game changing help to me that I encourage everyone to explore.

[@liquidhalf]

A light in the darkness

[@parkerassociates9864]

Thanks

[@davidhenderson7066]

Thank you for your vulnerability, ability to laugh, share your faith, and your God given gifts. You will rebound. Prayers for you and your family. Keep strong in your faith and yourself.

[@JasonExplainsThings]

Thanks! Greatly appreciated. No good news yet... but I'll keep working at it.

[@Wachuko-1]

Jason, not easy to open up like that and share to millions of strangers. Wishing you the best. Just as you have overcome past situations, you will do so now as well. Stay strong and keep looking forward. If you have not done so, write down your goals, no matter how crazy they may sound... write them without thinking of the situation today... these can be both spiritual and material goals. Just put them all on paper. Be the encouragement for others to also continue to move forward overcoming the challenges and curved balls that life throw at us. "The secret to living a fulfilled live is to pick up as heavy a load as you possibly can and walk straight uphill with it." "Love is the motivation that will inspire our better best efforts."

[@JasonExplainsThings]

Thanks Sir.

[@BowTied69]

You totally got this. You got talent!! You have the opportunity to get employers to compete for you! Or do your own thing. Sky is the limit.

[@Everydaygentleman]

Subscribed just because of the scripture you quoted. God bless brother. All the best to you. Hope to see you on a trail some day!

[@JasonExplainsThings]

Thanks very much. God bless!

[@jimmyj5038]

Thank you for this video. I have been laid off before too and as a fellow Christian I would like to say, God is good. He has provided through that rough time for me and my family. Keep up the great videos (especially those 4runner ones). God Bless you!

[@JasonExplainsThings]

God bless you too Jimmy! And don't worry. I have a bunch of 4Runner stuff coming. Luckily I got several things lined up for it before recent events transpired!

[@sudonickx]

can confirm, surprise all hands meetings never fun.

[@JasonExplainsThings]

😅 Yup.

[@waltersmith6454]

I was brought low almost 9 years ago after starting what I thought was a great job. Life for my family was tough. Since then I have gotten a job in another industry (automotive) making more money with more freedom than I had before. I am convinced God closed one door so another could be opened. I pray this is the case for you too.

[@JasonExplainsThings]

Thanks Walter. Totally agree. I’m excited, praying, and plan to keep putting out videos related to what I’d love to do next.

[@YorkReacts]

Being a game dev for over 15 years now... Lots of this is so true and good advice. The game industry is not for the weak.

[@JasonExplainsThings]

It’s a bloodbath this year. Absolutely crazy! One guy from my team just found a new job. 🥳

[@YorkReacts]

@@JasonExplainsThings and it’s weird crystal dynamics just hit me up about a job lol small world. I am leaving Blur at the end of this week to start over at High Wire games at the end of the month. I jumped at the opportunity for full time staff position because it’s so hard to get now a days in our Industry. Keep in touch maybe I can connect you with someone I know. Are you still out of work and looking ?

[@JasonExplainsThings]

Still out of work. But things might be looking up soon. 🤞🤫

[@JasonExplainsThings]

Crystal was a decent place to work. Just don’t believe the “our projects are fully funded… don’t worry about layoffs” stuff. Trust your gut. 👍

[@YorkReacts]

@@JasonExplainsThings yeah trusted my gut and signed with high wire games.

[@OffroadGospel-yi6gj]

Appreciate you sharing your journey. It is difficult to see the plan during the storms of life, but thankful that we don't have to navigate them alone! God is good!!

[@JasonExplainsThings]

Might need to tattoo Matt 6:33 on my arm soon. 😅🤜🤛

[@OffroadGospel-yi6gj]

Love that scripture. If you ever find yourself wheeling in the Midwest let me know. Would love to do some trails with you in my ZR2

[@JasonExplainsThings]

For sure!

[@Rana-ci6ns]

I’m not Christian but stayed to hear all of your video. Thank-you for sharing your story in a way that is inspiring for all people. Wishing you the best in your continued journey.

[@JasonExplainsThings]

Thanks very much. 👍 The search continues. It’s been a pretty rewarding period focusing only on KZbin but the money isn’t enough to be my main job. Either way, the future is bright and things will get sorted out. It’s been tough to see all the layoffs happen since mine. I give credit to my faith that I’ve been able to handle the stress way better than previous times.

[@Rana-ci6ns]

The future is definitely bright- tough times are always followed by the good ones, and I’m sure you will find your own unique path in the days ahead.

[@user-vy9uu5kx1i]

Amen

[@LonestarHawaiian]

🤙🏽🤙🏽

[@jonaspeoples6931]

Hoping some more dodge vids❤🎉❤🎉❤🎉❤🎉❤🎉❤

[@JasonExplainsThings]

Will do. The expensive stuff will have to wait unfortunately. I wanted to do leaf springs this fall but purchasing parts is on hold. I do have a couple smaller projects and videos planned for it. Tried to relaunch the Dodge series with the story video and get some interest from businesses back in August but none have responded. So all Dodge stuff comes out of my earnings from YT. All of those have been diverted from projects to regular bills. That's life.

[@rjvsmb]

Pits are the pits.😁

[@JasonExplainsThings]

Pits suck.

[@cstout1634]

Im so sorry to hear that. I just read about Bungie laying off.

[@JasonExplainsThings]

Yeah, the industry needs an overhaul. All this leads to a lack of trust in what leadership tells people. The timing of layoffs like the Bungie one is pretty sad in how it's mere days before folks are fully vested in their stock. I was only 8 days shy of being fully vested in my 401K match before being let go. It's hard to think that's not on purpose.

[@ZorELE]

Have you thought about PSNS? Best stability in this area!!!!!!!!!!!!!! I love it.

[@JasonExplainsThings]

Hey there. Not sure what PSNS is. If you're referring to the Navel Shipyard, I'm not in the Seattle area anymore. Moved to the dry side of the state. :-)

[@ZorELE]

Yep. That’s what I was referring to. Well the best of luck to you. Feel free to drop me a line if you ever do a trail run on this side of the mountains.

[@thewordj3169]

Lord is awesome!

[@thetrailoutthere]

God is good, brother!

[@bevanalexander]

Amen, God is Good. I have gone through a similar situation and i have had numerous interviews because i believe that God is done with me.

[@cowthedestroyer]

I hate the video game industry. The almost total lack of innovation and disregard for the end users. Its been nothing but a cash grab industry for well over 10 years now and any game that appears good or is good at launch quickly becomes bad from bad balance changes or just shareholders calling the shots. Look at the latest cod 400 million spent and its a copy and past almost 0 difference from the last cod. Or escape from tarkov an actually fun game up untill they decided to listen to only streamers and made the worst decisions possible so now you have to grind 40 hours a week just to have some fun. Remember when valve used to actually make games and shake the industry with every single launch. Yeah that doesnt happen anymore and i havent seen a single ip or indy studio even try to top them.

[@JasonExplainsThings]

I’ve been more interested in getting outside and doing things in nature for a while now. It was fun in college. I remember Halo 2 being fun. 😁

[@cowthedestroyer]

@@JasonExplainsThings I've put 1.6k hours into tf2 there isn't much to do in Iowa in the winter besides drink and play videogames

[@JasonExplainsThings]

Oh man. Yeah we’re spoiled by mountains. But take it easy on booze and video games my dude.

[@finalfriction]

It got laid off 2 times in one year in the games industry 🤣

[@JasonExplainsThings]

Livin’ the dream! 😅

[@jeffmurray9862]

There is some information missing in your bio. :)

[@JasonExplainsThings]

LOL. We don’t want to go back THAT FAR! 😂. FYI, Jeff… anytime I hear that Linkin Park song… I just start laughing.

[@pirja]

Glad to know you are a Christian, God bless you my brother in Christ, keep up the good content🙏

[@aurfax]

Get this Christian man some LIKES! God is with you brother because you share his word. God bless.

[@JasonExplainsThings]

Thanks man. All these positive responses are very encouraging.

[@fodera0915]

Amen Jason!