Sony has undertaken a considerable number of internal layoffs this year. In parallel, reports are circulating about Sony potentially forming a new in-house studio by assembling developers who previously worked at Deviation Games. However, details are somewhat elusive, lacking any explicit confirmation.
Speculations gained traction when an astute observer closely tied to PlayStation and active on Zuby Tech noted various updates in the job descriptions of former Deviation Games employees. Fred Thomson seems to be at the forefront, “leading design for an unannounced project,” as depicted by images of key personnel profiles in the enthusiast’s tweet. Nevertheless, specific details about the project remain undisclosed.
Game designer JCBackfire recently disclosed on Xbox’s platform that they are presently collaborating with Jason Blundell. Although Jason was instrumental in founding Deviation Games years ago, he eventually parted ways with the studio in 2022. Deviation Games made an official announcement on Twitter in September 2022, leaving the reason for Blundell’s departure unspecified.
Deviation Games has been a significant support studio for PlayStation since 2021 and underwent substantial layoffs in 2023, releasing up to 90 employees, with no official statement clarifying the situation. Despite recent and impactful security breaches, it appears that Sony is planning further layoffs in PlayStation studios, including Insomniac Games. Given this context, the potential establishment of a new in-house studio would be an unexpected move and, for now, remains a matter of rumor.
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