Driveclub Developer Evolution Studios Hit With Layoffs

[Dohc-WP]

UK-based Evolution Studios has experienced an unspecified number of layoffs.

Sony issued a statement to Eurogamer claiming the layoffs were part of a resturcturing effort as the Driveclub developer moves forward with developing the racing game into a service, specifically its PlayStation Plus edition.

Driveclub experienced a rocky start when its promised PlayStation Plus edition was delayed indefinitely. However, Sony has repeatedly promised the version free for members is planned to release.

Source: IGN

 

[BeoTeK]

I just hope they will be able to maintain their service level as it really has been tops. The amount of updates via social media and they way they aimed to drive it forward, not to mention physical game updates and tweaks and add-ons. The game really is fantastic!

 

[Dohc-WP]

I just hope they will be able to maintain their service level as it really has been tops. The amount of updates via social media and they way they aimed to drive it forward, not to mention physical game updates and tweaks and add-ons. The game really is fantastic!

the only time when layoffs happen so soon is if a game has failed to live up to expectations critically or if its a financial flop, it happened to black box when NFS the Run failed, Criterion when most wanted failed and ghost games when rivals failed, bizarre creations when blur and bloodstone failed etc.

They always do that when a game is not a financial or critical success but they always call it restricturing or amalgamating resources, divisions etc cause they would never openly admit failure.

 

[Dohc-WP]

UPDATE: Sony has now confirmed that redundancies "will be necessary" as a result of a restructure at Driveclub developer, Evolution Studios.

In a statement, Sony said: "Evolution Studios will now focus on DriveClub as a service going forward, in particular, the important launch of the PS Plus Edition. We will be restructuring Evolution Studios to ensure that SCE WWS and in particular, Evolution Studios are in the best position to achieve these goals."

"We will be looking to relocate team members throughout the studios, but unfortunately some redundancies will be necessary and in those cases we will assist staff in any way we can."

Sources speaking to Eurogamer suggest that up to 55 jobs - which is almost half of the current workforce - may be at risk, with "finance" and "a smack for Driveclub's problems" cited as reasons for downsizing.

 

[XbatousaiX]

That sucks I hope everyone affected lands on there feet.I am happy that the studio is focusing on Driveclub as it is a awesome game and I eagerly await there content updates.