Sony Online Entertainment Cancels The Agency

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Sony Online Entertainment had some sad news to share today, announcing the closure of their Seattle, Tuscon, and Denver studios and the cancellation of the oft-delayed PS3 & PC MMO The Agency. It was only a few months ago that Sony Online Entertainment president John Smedley was discussing how The Agency would step away from the “cookie cutter” MMOs, but unfortunately we won’t be seeing any of the innovation held within it’s persistent world.

“SOE is discontinuing production of The Agency so it can focus development resources on delivering two new MMOs based on its renowned PlanetSide and EverQuest properties, while also maintaining its current portfolio of online games,” said SOE in a statement. A total of 205 positions were eliminated as a result of the studio closures, a move SOE says is “part of a strategic decision to reduce costs and streamline its global workforce.”

Sony Online Entertainment has already released DC Universe Online and Free Realms on PS3 this year, with The Agency and a new PlanetSide Next rounding out their MMO releases for 2011. While there’s no hope for The Agency, it seems like PlanetSide Next is still on track to release some time this year (hopefully).