Posted Tue Mar 22, 2016 at 08:46 AM PDT by Sophia Edwards
Developer closes after rocky few years.
Today, Sony has confirmed that they have closed Evolution Studios. The closure follows a rocky few years which saw 'Driveclub' announced, delayed, delayed, released with online in an unplayable shape, and the promised PS Plus version delayed. Eventually, both the PS Plus version of the game and the full version improved through post release support to foster a dedicated fanbase which can play online. (Check out the game review here.) There has even been substantial DLC.
Sony will try and place certain staff members in new positions, but recognises that they will lose some major talent here. The full statement is below:
Regular reviews take place throughout SCE Worldwide Studios, ensuring that the resources that we have in such a competitive landscape can create and produce high quality, innovative and commercially viable projects.
As part of this process we have reviewed and assessed all current projects and plans for the short and medium term and have decided to make some changes to the European studios structure.
As a result, it has been decided that Evolution Studio will close.
It is regrettable that this decision will lead to compulsory redundancies. We accept that this decision will mean that we risk losing high calibre staff but by focusing on other Studios that already have exciting new projects in development we believe we will be in a stronger position going forward and able to offer the best possible content of the highest quality for our consumers.
Where possible we will try to reallocate people onto other projects. 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.
Evolution has been an important part of SCE Worldwide Studios for over 10 years - working on ground-breaking racing titles like WRC, Motorstorm and DRIVECLUB.
This decision should not take anything away from the great work that Evolution has produced.
It's always incredibly unfortunate when a studio shuts down unexpectedly. Here's hoping all affected by this find their feet soon.
Source: GamesIndustry.biz
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