Sony Shuts Down Driveclub Developer

Driveclub was originally designed to offer an expansive world brimming with detail which showcased the PlayStation 4’s graphical capabilities. Even though the game’s visuals are absolutely incredible with some of the best weather effects I’ve seen, it wasn’t enough to keep the creator, Evolution Studios in business. Today, Sony announced that the studio will close and released a statement which reads:

“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.”

Driveclub’s game director Paul Rustchynsky weighed in on the developer’s closure and said:

I've had an incredible time working for #EvolutionStudios, here's short statement from me: pic.twitter.com/9eITjpbddy

— Paul Rustchynsky (@Rushy33) March 22, 2016

Evolution Studio’s community manager thanked fans for their continued support and released a touching message:

It’s the end of an incredible era for #EvolutionStudios. Thanks to all of you: https://t.co/YYPJNvbMxd #DRIVECLUB pic.twitter.com/ERQiQ48SGR

— Jamie Brayshaw (@PhenomEvolution) March 22, 2016

This is a major blow for the gaming industry and I hope those affected can find similar roles in another studio very soon. Clearly, the game’s turbulent development process which consisted of the PlayStation Plus version being canned had a major impact on profitability.