Sony has confirmed that there will be losses at its London Studio as the team wraps up development of their first VR project.
Sony confirmed the news to GamesIndustry.Biz, and indicated that this shrinkage is part of downsizing after a production cycle, and does not reflect the publisher’s commitment to VR. The specific amount of layoffs was not given.
“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,” reads the statement.
The team at London Studio had been working on London Heist, a PSVR exclusive. The studio had previously worked on a number of other projects, including Wonderbook, The Playroom, Singstar, The Deep, and R&D for the Eye Toy. Sony did mention in the statement that they will work with affected employees by moving them to different roles within Sony or however else they can.
“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.
“Unfortunately, there will be a number of compulsory redundancies within the London Studio. We accept that this will mean that we risk losing high caliber staff whose projects have reached completion and where possible, we will try to reallocate people to new projects currently being nurtured.
“If appropriate opportunities are not possible within the company, we will assist staff in any way we can, including speaking with local employers and with other Development companies.”
Sony’s PlayStation VR will release on October 13th, and will set gamers back $399. Sony has revealed that there will be 50 titles for the PlayStation VR between its launch and the end of the year.