Sony to close DriveClub dev Evolution Studios

DriveClub creator Evolution Studios is to be closed, Sony has revealed.

The developer, which also produced the Motorstorm and World Rally Championship franchises, suffered in the wake of DriveClub’s messy launch at the end of 2014, being forced to lay off 55 staff last year.

Sony said that as part of a review of its SCE Worldwide Studios, Evolution would be shut. The outlet was originally opened in 1999 and acquired by Sony shortly afterwards.

“It is regrettable that this decision will lead to compulsory redundancies,” Sony said in a statement issued to GI.

“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.”