It has been confirmed today that Sony will be shuttering one of its gaming studios based in the UK. Studio Liverpool, formerly known as Psygnosis, which is known for the WipeOut series of games will be closed in its entirety.
Originally reports were only speculating on the closure but Sony has since confirmed that reports are accurate. A portion of Sony’s statement reads:
“It has been decided that Liverpool Studio should be closed. Liverpool Studio has been an important part of SCE Worldwide Studios since the outset of PlayStation, and have contributed greatly to PlayStation over the years. Everyone connected with Liverpool Studio, past and present, can be very proud of their achievements.
However, it was felt that by focusing our investment plans on other studios that are currently working on exciting new projects, we would be in a stronger position to offer the best possible content for our consumers.”
There is talk that Sony will be trying to relocate the staff at the studio to other departments or development houses but this has yet to be completely confirmed. Only the development section of the Liverpool studio will be affected, the localisation and financial departments will carry on as usual.
Electronic Arts-owned PopCap, Funcom and THQ have all let staff go since the beginning of the week.
Source: The Guardian