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Repair Windows errors before they cause bigger problemsFix Now →Scan for outdated or missing drivers - takes under a minuteDriver Scan →Clear out junk files and repair common Windows errorsFree Scan →Former Intrepid Studios communications director Margaret Krohn alleged that laid-off employees would not receive final paychecks, pay tied to the federal WARN Act, accrued paid time off, or other compensation she said was owed. The claim has not been shown to be a final legal finding, and the sources available do not establish whether employees were later paid. Reports also described a California WARN filing listing 123 employees, while Krohn said an initial plan involved 100 developer layoffs.
What did former employees say about their final pay?
Margaret Krohn, Intrepid Studios’ former communications director, described a series of layoff communications in late January 2026. In her account, she was told on January 28 that 100 developers would be laid off. On January 29 and 30, she said she informed her game services team that changes were coming and then spoke with employees individually about who was affected.
Krohn said employees received an email on January 31 saying they would all be laid off, along with a WARN notice. She alleged they would not receive final paychecks, pay associated with the notice period, accrued PTO payouts, or other compensation. Her reported statement was: “In the end, none of us are receiving our final paychecks, the 60 days notice and pay outlined under the WARN Act, PTO payouts, or other compensation owed.” (Game Developer’s report)
That is an attributed allegation about what employees were told and expected, not proof that every employee was owed the same amounts or that no payments were made later. The reporting available here does not establish the final status of individual wage or notice-pay claims.
#1 Best Overall
- EXPAND THE BATTLE: Add new strategic options to Ashes Ascendancy with two new Phoenixborn, a new Natural Magic type, and additional cards that expand competitive, solo, and cooperative gameplay.
- NEW NATURAL MAGIC: Introduces Natural Magic dice and cards that provide additional deck building choices and new tactical combinations for experienced Ashes players seeking more variety.
- SOLO AND COOPERATIVE PLAY: Face the Dragonborn Indiri Aldair in dedicated solo or cooperative scenarios, offering a different challenge beyond traditional player versus player matches.
Why are the layoff figures different?
Two reported figures describe different things. Krohn said the initial plan she was told about involved 100 developers. A California Employment Development Department WARN filing, as reported by PCGamesN, identified Intrepid Studios as a permanent closure and listed 123 employees. The initial layoff figure and the filing’s listed employee count should not be treated as competing final counts: one was Krohn’s account of an initial plan, and the other was the number reported in an administrative filing.
PCGamesN reported the filing; Game Developer also reported the filing and its 123-employee figure (Game Developer).
Rank #2
- GAME OVERVIEW: Ashes Ascendancy is an expandable card game where players become Phoenixborn, powerful demi-gods protecting the world of Argaia
- COMPATIBILITY: Fully compatible with all Ashes Reborn content while introducing two new magic types and exciting gameplay mechanics
- GAME MODES: Features competitive card play for 1-2 players, plus new solo and cooperative battle options against unique foes
- PLAYING TIME: Complete a game session in 30-60 minutes, perfect for both casual and strategic gaming sessions
- AGE RATING: Designed for players aged 14 and up, offering deep strategy and engaging gameplay mechanics
What did studio founder Steven Sharif say?
Steven Sharif offered a separate account centered on a dispute over control of the company. In a personal statement reported by Game Developer, he said: “Control of the company shifted away from me, and the Board began directing actions that I could not ethically agree with or carry out.” He also said: “Following my resignation, much of the senior leadership team resigned.”
Sharif said the board decided to issue WARN notices and proceed with a mass layoff after senior leaders resigned. His statement is his account of the leadership dispute; it does not independently verify the internal decision-making or determine responsibility for employees’ compensation. (Game Developer)
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Rank #3
- EXPAND YOUR ADVENTURES: Bring the 'Age of Ashes' to your Pathfinder Arena with new challenges including a unique hero, Nketiah, and four new monsters like the Skeletal Hellcrown and Dragonshard Golem.
- IMMERSE IN DEPTH: Experience intricate gameplay with a cooperative campaign, enhancing your strategic options and expanding the core game’s narrative.
- DYNAMIC GAME ELEMENTS: Introduces complex engine-building mechanics and a solo gameplay option, perfect for deep tactical planning and solo challenges.
- HIGH-QUALITY COMPONENTS: Includes 1 unique iconic hero figure, 4 unique monster figures, 10 tokens, and 20 game-enhancing cards.
- PERFECT FOR PATHFINDER FANS: Ideal for fans of the Pathfinder universe, especially those familiar with the 'Age of Ashes' adventure path from Pathfinder 2nd edition.
What does the court order establish?
A federal temporary restraining order dated March 4, 2026, arose from a dispute involving Intrepid, board members, company control, and the game’s intellectual property. The order recites allegations made in court filings; that does not make every allegation a finding of fact. Nor does the order, as described in the reporting, resolve former employees’ wage or WARN-related claims. (Federal court order)
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.Were employees eventually paid?
The sources cited here do not say whether Intrepid employees later received final wages, notice pay, PTO payouts, or other compensation. They also do not establish whether individual claims were finally adjudicated. Krohn reportedly encouraged players to pursue refunds, but that is not evidence of a guaranteed refund program or of eligibility for any particular buyer. (Game Developer’s report)
Rank #4
- WOMEN'S GAMER T-SHIRT WITH OFFICIAL ASHES OF CREATION ARTWORK: Designed for MMO fans who love representing their favorite fantasy worlds. Ideal for gaming sessions, convention outfits, or everyday casual wear.
- FANTASY-INSPIRED GRAPHIC TEE WITH RPG STYLE: Features bold artwork influenced by classic fantasy games, giving the shirt a Final Fantasy-style vibe while maintaining unique Ashes of Creation identity.
- PERFECT WOMEN'S SHIRT FOR DND, ELDER SCROLLS & RPG FANS: Whether you love tabletop campaigns, open-world adventures, or story-driven RPGs, this tee complements your style with subtle nerdy flair.
- SOFT, BREATHABLE COTTON FOR ALL-DAY COMFORT: Made in the USA with lightweight, high-quality fabric that feels great during long gaming sessions, weekend quests, or relaxed daily wear.
- GREAT GIFT FOR FANTASY LOVERS & GAMER MERCH COLLECTORS: A thoughtful present for fans of Skyrim, Oblivion, DnD, anime RPGs, and anyone who enjoys high-quality, lore-inspired apparel.
What happened to Ashes of Creation?
Kotaku reported that the game had been removed from sale on Steam after news of the shutdown. That is a historical storefront report, not confirmation of the game’s current sale status, server availability, or access for existing players. (Kotaku)
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