Jagex and Hasbro to close Transformers Universe

Transformers Universe will be closed down early next year.

The decision was made by both developer Jagex and Transformers owner Hasbro, who worked together on the troubled online game.

The game was still in live beta, having been made available in July. It will enter a maintenance period this week, with complete closure due on January 31st 2015.

Following the end of Transformers Universe, Jagex will restructure its internal teams to "align with new strategic priorities". The developer will apparently focus on its own IP going forward.

"It’s a disappointing outcome for us all at the studio, but one that is both necessary and timely," the studio said in a statement. "We remain proud of the work that has been achieved by an incredibly talented team of designers, programmers, engineers and artists as well as all those working in roles that supported this creative endeavour."

Transformers Universe was first announced way back in March 2011, originally designed as an MMO before taking on a more MOBA-like structure.

Back in November, the Transformers team was significantly downsized.

Hasbro has announced it will be seeking alternative games opportunities for Transformers.