SOCOM 4 dev discharges staff

Just as Slant Six was hit with layoffs following the release of SOCOM: U.S. Navy SEALs Fireteam Bravo 3 last year, so too are the pink slips flying at Zipper Interactive. In a statement provided to GameSpot, Sony said that the layoffs came as a result of the winding-down process following the release of SOCOM 4: U.S. Navy SEALs and last year's multiplayer-only shooter MAG.

"Sony Computer Entertainment can confirm a reduction in workforce from its Redmond based game development studio, Zipper Interactive," a Sony representative said. "This is of normal business practice and a result of cutting back on production resources after the launch of two major franchises. The team will continue to support existing properties and its work on future projects."

Gamasutra reports that more than 30 staffers have been let go at the studio, which released SOCOM 4 on April 19. Sony declined to comment on the exact number of employees impacted by the layoffs.

Though it is likely developing additional downloadable content for SOCOM 4, Zipper does not currently have any announced projects. The studio was acquired by Sony in 2006.

For more on Zipper's latest effort, check out GameSpot's review of SOCOM 4.