Sony's London Studio suffers layoffs as it wraps up production on London Heist
The team 'have done a great job leading the way in VR development,' and remaining employees will work on more VR games.
Sony's London Studio has suffered layoffs as it nears the end of production on London Heist, a VR game.
The report came from GI.biz, who reached out to members of Sony for further information. "Regular reviews take place throughout SIE Worldwide Studios, ensuring that the resources that we have in such a competitive landscape deliver on our strategic objectives in the best way possible," a representative responded.
In other words, the statement should not be taken as indication that Sony is shying away from its commitment to virtual reality projects such as PlayStation VR, due to launch next month. Layoffs often occur near or at the end of production cycles as studio executives evaluate positions and eliminate redundancies in preparation of the next project.
Indeed, Sony confirmed that its London Studio will soon break ground on another VR game. "London Studio have done a great job in leading the way in VR development, and as their first project nears completion it is time to plan for the next VR project. The team will take all their learnings and experience as they move forward, however in order to achieve its ambitious goals, the Studio will need to restructure around the needs of the new projects."
Sony went on to say that it anticipates finding likely positions, but that it will do its best to relocate staff to other studios and projects in order to avoid losing "high calibre staff."
The London Studio's work in VR is illustrative of its penchant for experimental titles. Its portfolio includes SingStar, Wonderbook, R&D for the EyeToy, and The Playroom, among others. Its London Heist VR game will be included in PlayStation VR Worlds, a disc that ships with every PSVR headset.
-
Shacknews
replyDavid Craddock posted a new article, Sony's London Studio suffers layoffs as it wraps up production on London Heist
