Japanese publishing giant Square Enix is making layoffs across its UK and US businesses. 

In a presentation published on its website, the company said that it was 'reorganising' its overseas operations. Part of this is consolidating development to Japan; overseas studios will also no longer be managing IPs, as this task will be "globally integrated". 

That consolidating of development has already manifested itself in Square Enix selling its Western studios – Crystal Dynamics, Eidos Montreal and Square Enix Montreal – to Embracer Group. 

IGN reports that staff at Square Enix's US and UK offices have been told that redundancies are on the way. In a statement, the company expressed its "heartfelt gratitude" to the staff it was laying off. 

"We are reorganizing our operations in North America and Europe to strengthen our development structure and to drive a globally integrated marketing strategy," a rep wrote. 

"This was an extremely difficult decision, made following careful consideration and analysis by our leadership, in order to best position the Group’s long-term growth.

"We extend our heartfelt gratitude to the talented team members who will be departing the company for their significant contributions to Square Enix. During this period of transition, we remain committed to treating each individual with the utmost respect and providing extensive support throughout this process."