RIP
Sony just closed Studio Liverpool (formerly Psygnosis) All projects cancelled.
Sony to close Liverpool studio
WipEout studio to close doors after 28 years
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Sony is to close down its Liverpool studio as part of a wider reorganisation, the platform holder has confirmed to CVG.
It is believed that Michael Denny, the man who operates PlayStation's European studio business, visited Sony Liverpool on Wednesday morning to explain to staff that the group would close.
Sony is looking at relocating staff at Sony Liverpool to other parts of the business, the company told CVG.
Sony Liverpool has undergone restructuring on two previous occasions since 2010. In March last year it was trimmed as part of a wider reorganisation of UK studios.
It is not believed that any other UK studio will be cut as part of the reorganisation.
An official press statement is expected soon.
Garlanded history
Sony Liverpool formed in 1984 as Psygnosis and is responsible for scores of games such as Wipeout and Destruction Derby.
Sony acquired the group in 2001.
Updates From Pezus' thread:
http://www.eurogamer.net/articles/2012-08-22-sony-closes-wipeout-developer-sony-liverpool-report
UPDATE 3: Sony Liverpool has bid a tearful farewell to WipEout, the sci-fi racing series that defined a generation and helped PlayStation achieve its wonderful mainstream success.
On the WipEout 2048 Facebook page an update let fans know of the unfortunate news that broke this morning.
"As some of you may have heard Sony have chosen to close Studio Liverpool as of today," the update reads.
"This page will no longer be maintained by the WipEout Team.
"We have loved making every game, every minute and every one of you. Keep the faith, keep loving WipEout.
"Thank you for everything, Pilots. It's been an amazing journey and we'll miss you. X"
UPDATE 2: Sony has contacted Eurogamer to stress that the only part of the Liverpool campus that is being closed is WWSE Team Liverpool.
The campus will still house FQA, GFPQA, XDev, CSG-Video, Localisation services and WWSE Finance, among other departments.
A Sony spokesperson also said the company will try to relocate those affected to other studios. "We will be looking to relocate the 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."
UPDATE 1: Sony has confirmed the closure of Sony Liverpool.
In a statement Sony said it was focusing on other studios that "are currently working on exciting new projects".
The statement in full:
"As part of SCE Worldwide Studios, we do regular reviews to ensure that the resources we have can create and produce high quality, innovative and commercially viable projects in an increasingly competitive marketplace. As part of this process, we have reviewed and assessed all current and planned projects for the short and medium term and have decided to make some changes to our European Studios.
"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.
"Our Liverpool Facility will continue to operate, housing a number of other vital WWSE and SCEE Departments.
"This should not take anything away from the great work WWS are doing and the incredible games and services that we have made, and continue to make, both for this coming year and further in the future."