Sony quiet on SOCOM dev closure rumour

UPDATE: Sony has finally confirmed that Zipper Interactive is no more.

A statement from the platform holder handed to Game Informer explained that the decision was "a result of a normal cycle of resource re-alignment". Here it is in full:

"Sony Computer Entertainment can confirm the closure of Zipper Interactive, a Seattle-based internal game development studio that has been part of the global development operation of Sony Computer Entertainment Worldwide Studios (SCE WWS).

"The closure is a result of a normal cycle of resource re-alignment within SCE WWS. Zipper has completed all work associated with its most recent project, Unit 13 for PlayStation Vita. Zipper titles MAG, SOCOM 4 and Unit 13 will continue to be supported, including the new Daily Challenges in Unit 13."

ORIGINAL STORY: Sony has remained quiet on the rumour that SOCOM developer Zipper Interactive is being shut down.

Kotaku reported that Zipper was hit by layoffs and the cancellation of a project. It said the scope of the layoffs "indicated a studio shutdown".

Sony Computer Entertainment America refused to comment on the story to Kotaku, and Sony Computer Entertainment Europe declined to comment when contacted by Eurogamer this morning.

If true, Zipper's closure means the Sony-owned studio's last game was PS Vita third-person shooter Unit 13.

Its previous works include the PlayStation exclusive series SOCOM and PlayStation 3 exclusive first-person shooter MAG.