Once one of the console titans of the gaming industry, Sega Sammy today announced a significant shift in focus to online PC and mobile gaming.

The Japanese company confirmed today to the press that it believes the PC and mobile industries will be key growth areas in the coming years, and a vital part of its plans to boost profits.

To enable this transition, “about 120” jobs will have to be “streamlined” – or axed - at the American arm of subsidiary company Sega.

Its US office will also be moved from San Francisco to Southern California.

And as part of the restructure, a further 180 positions at Sega Sammy will be affected.

Underwhelming sonic boom

“We are under consultation with a limited number of staff in the European publishing business and will be able to confirm decisions regarding any potential redundancies in the coming weeks,” said a spokesperson for Sega.

During the 90s Sega wielded considerable power over the gaming industry, famous for powerful brands like Sonic The Hedgehog and its Sega Mega Drive, Saturn and Dreamcast consoles.

The company statement says that Sonic will still remain a central IP, as “Sonic and merchandising businesses will be reinforced” over the coming months.