Copenhagen-based IO Interactive, developer for Hitman: Absolution, has announced a nearly 50 percent staff reduction and the cancellation of several projects, as reported in GamesIndustry International. "The studio will focus resolutely on the future vision for the Hitman franchise," an IO spokesperson said in a statement. "We have taken the difficult decision to cancel other studio projects and initiatives at IO and reduce the workforce in this studio, which will impact almost half of the employees currently at IO." "For those affected, we are extremely grateful for the hard work which they have contributed," the statement continued. Gamasutra extends condolences for those affected by these layoffs.