Harmonix suffers layoff of 39 staffers [UPDATE]

Update: An MTV spokesperson has told IndustryGamers that the lay-offs "was a process and business decision unrelated to the performance of any MTV Games or Harmonix products" and that "Harmonix staffed up its QA department and support positions based on the 2009 worldwide release schedule. At this time, Harmonix will shift to a combination of temporary/part time help, outsourcing and support from external partners (which is in line with how other game developers manage their QA departments.)"

Original: Rumors were circling Twitter all morning that staff members over at Harmonix were laid-off this morning, and MTV Games has confirmed the news to Joystiq.

According to a rep speaking with the site, 39 positions were made redundant as part of a restructuring process to "better align [the] staffing to best suit [Harmonix's] product development plans and schedules moving forward."

Most positions were in QA, while some administrative and various other positions also suffering the loss of a job, along with one designer as well.

These redundancies are not associated with the lay-offs at EA, as it's a "totally and completely unrelated" issue.

We're very sorry to hear this, and wish those affected the best of luck.

More through the link.