Even as the beloved Cookie Run franchise continues to grow, South Korean developer Devsisters has revealed an operating deficit of 17.4 billion Won (approximately $11.7 million USD) and a net deficit of 15.1 billion Won ($10.1 million USD) for its Q1 2026 financial period (source: Thisisgame). To address these financial challenges, the company has outlined several targeted cost management initiatives and a strategic roadmap aimed at restoring profitability.
The core components of this cost management plan include:
1. The enforcement of stringent management reforms via executive accountability and a newly formed “Cost Management Task Force”
2. A comprehensive review of the company’s game portfolio, with a shift in investment strategy toward “selection and concentration”
3. Evolution into a “highly efficient, core-talent-focused organization” by actively adopting emerging technologies
4. Streamlining operations through reduced hiring, internal mobility initiatives, and company-wide voluntary separation programs
While the voluntary separation approach may raise eyebrows, Devsisters has confirmed widespread cost-cutting measures across all divisions. The board of directors’ co-chairs, for example, will be working without compensation. Similarly, top executive salaries will be reduced by 50%. Recruitment efforts will now be confined exclusively to essential roles.
Devsisters’ profitability decline can be attributed to multiple factors, including underwhelming performance from the recently launched Cookie Run: OvenSmash and disappointing reception to updates for existing live service titles. Despite these challenges, the studio remains committed to developing and supporting its Cookie Run franchise, while also advancing other projects like a 2D aquatic platformer codenamed “Project Mish.”
Mido