Sony Computer Entertainment has closed first-party developer Studio Liverpool, the UK team responsible for the Wipeout series amongst other games. 

Founded in 1984 as Psygnosis, the studio was acquired by Sony in 1993, and released Wipeout as a European launch title for the PlayStation in 1995.

Studio Liverpool's handheld work includes Wipeout Pure for the PSP and, its last game, Wipeout 2048 for the PS Vita.

This announcement follows the news of layoffs at PopCap.

The company said it was dealing with the rapid shift to free-to-play, social and mobile gaming, and as a result, the future of PopCap's Dublin office is now in question.

Goodbye and good luck

In response to online speculation, Sony issued a statement confirming the closure, and explaining that the decision to "make some changes to our European Studios" was reached after a review of SCE's planned projects.

"It has been decided that Liverpool Studio should be closed. Liverpool Studio has been an important part of SCE Worldwide Studios since the outset of PlayStation, and has contributed greatly to PlayStation over the years.

"Everyone connected with Liverpool Studio, past and present, can be very proud of their achievements," the statement read.

"However, it was felt that by focusing our investment plans on other studios that are currently working on exciting new projects, we would be in a stronger position to offer the best possible content for our consumers.

"Our Liverpool facility will continue to operate, housing a number of other vital WWS and SCEE Departments.

"This should not take anything away from the great work WWS are doing and the incredible games and services that we have made, and continue to make, both for this coming year and further in the future."