Restructuring Announcement: Reduction in Workforce and Changes Ahead at PlayStation Studios

Team,

It is with a heavy heart that I bring you today’s news. The ever-evolving economic landscape, changes in product development, distribution, and launch strategies, and our commitment to being future-ready in this rapidly changing industry have led us to a difficult decision. Our leadership team has made the tough choice to restructure operations, resulting in a reduction in our workforce. This decision has been agonizing for us, as it impacts the incredibly talented individuals who have contributed to our success.

After months of careful consideration and numerous leadership discussions, it has become clear that changes must be made in order to drive business growth and development. We have taken a step back, examined our business holistically, and are moving forward with a focus on the long-term sustainability of our company and delivering exceptional experiences to our community. Our goal is to streamline our resources and ensure continued success in providing the experiences that gamers and creators have come to expect from us.

I want to be completely transparent with you, our valued partners and community, about the implications of this decision:

– We anticipate reducing our headcount by approximately 900 people, which is around 8% of our current workforce.
– Our restructuring will impact employees across all SIE regions, including the Americas, EMEA, Japan, and APAC.
– Several PlayStation Studios will be affected by these changes.

I understand that receiving this news will be incredibly difficult and unsettling, and many of you may be wondering about the implications for your own roles. The timelines and procedures for how we approach this transition will vary based on your location, in compliance with local laws and regulations.

For our colleagues in the US, all impacted employees will be notified today.

In the UK, the proposed changes include the complete closure of PlayStation Studios’ London Studio. Additionally, there will be workforce reductions in Firesprite studio, as well as in various functions across SIE in the UK. We will enter a period of collective consultation, and all employees involved in this process will receive information about the next steps today.

In Japan, we will establish a next career support program, details of which will be communicated separately.

In other countries, we will initiate conversations with those who may be at risk or impacted by these proposed actions.

To those leaving SIE, I want to express our deepest respect and appreciation for your contributions during your tenure. Your efforts have not gone unnoticed.

For those continuing their journey with SIE, we will bid farewell to friends and colleagues whom we hold dear. This process will undoubtedly be challenging and painful. In the coming weeks and months, your resilience, sensitivity, and adaptiveness will be crucial.

We understand that this period will not be easy, and we are fully aware of the impact it may have on your well-being. Rest assured, affected employees will receive support, including severance benefits. These challenging times do not indicate a lack of strength in our company, brand, or industry. Our objective remains unwavering—to remain agile, adaptable, and focused on delivering the best gaming experiences now and in the future.

I sincerely appreciate your understanding during this difficult period. Let us all be kind to ourselves and to each other.

Jim