This week’s roundup: Playtika announced ~15% layoffs as it restructures around efficiency and AI, Subway Surfers City was unveiled as the franchise’s first major sequel, and Warner Bros. Games cut roles at its San Francisco mobile studio amid continued consolidation.

Playtika Cuts ~15 % of Workforce in Strategic Shift Toward AI-Driven Mobile Games

Playtika is laying off about 500 employees (~15 % of its global staff) as part of a restructuring to prioritize AI, automation, and a leaner project focus. CEO Robert Antokol described the move as necessary to pivot from a broad growth strategy to a more efficient, future-oriented approach.

Implication: Growing cost pressures and market dynamics are pushing big mobile publishers to adopt AI and streamline operations.

“Subway Surfers City” Sequel Set for Global Mobile Launch on February 26, 2026

SYBO has announced the official sequel to Subway Surfers, titled Subway Surfers City, with a global release on iOS and Android on February 26, 2026. The new title expands the franchise with four distinct districts, new mechanics, multiple game modes (including Classic Endless, City Tour, and Events), and seasonal content; pre-registration is now open.

Implication: A major update to a legacy mobile franchise may set a new standard for long-running endless runners and influence development investment across the genre.

Warner Bros. Games Confirms Layoffs at Mobile Studio in San Francisco

Warner Bros. Games has eliminated roles at its San Francisco mobile studio, impacting teams involved with DC Worlds Collide among other projects, as part of broader internal restructuring within the publisher’s gaming divisions.

Implication: Ongoing cost cutting at established publishers indicates continued consolidation and budget reevaluation in mobile game development.