The specter of post-PlayStation 3 launch layoffs at Sony Computer Entertainment first arose at its European operations in April, and the publisher's workforce cuts have now arrived in the US. Sony Computer Entertaiment America senior director of coporate PR Dave Karraker has confirmed that a "streamlining" is underway at the company's Foster City, California, headquarters.

　　"In an effort to accurately align the company to meet the changing needs of our consumers and of our industry, Sony Computer Entertainment America has found it necessary to analyze our current business and to restructure the company as necessary to continue our standing as the market leader," Karraker said. "These restructuring efforts are currently under way and do include the streamlining of our operations and other initiatives to further strengthen the business, reduce costs, and increase operational efficiency."

　　Karraker did not reveal how many SCEA staffers had been let go. According to a unconfirmed report on the popular blog Kotaku, 80 to 100 employees at Sony Computer Entertainment America's Foster City location were laid off yesterday. The article says management blamed the decision on multibillion dollar losses and increasing next-gen development costs.