The game was originally planned to release alongside the PS4’s launch in November 2013 but several delays saw its release date pushed back until October 2014. Unfortunately, Driveclub’s eventual launch wasn’t very smooth either.
Massive server issues prevented players from accessing Driveclub’s multiplayer for several weeks after launch and Evolution Studios offered free DLC to affected players. The sever troubles also meant that the PlayStation Plus edition of Driveclub (which gave PS+ subscribers a smaller version of the game for free) had to be delayed indefinitely.
But despite Driveclub’s initial hiccups, Eurogamer reports that the game sold well, and work on Driveclub now seems to be going to plan. Just one week ago the developer revealed Driveclub’s Lamborghini DLC and Sony reassured fans that the PS+ version is still on the way. It’s for that reason that we are surprised to hear of layoffs at Evolution Studios.
In a statement, Sony explained:
Sony hasn’t provided a specific reason for the layoffs but it may be a normal part of development. Many teams suffer layoffs post-launch because the bulk of the development work is complete. This is especially the case with Evolution Studios as the developer is only working on more Driveclub DLC for the game. Not to mention, the PS Plus edition doesn’t require any extra content and therefore doesn’t need any extra manpower.
Do you think these layoffs are a bad sign for Driveclub? Or are they just part of the process for game development?
Source: Eurogamer
