eaA pair of sad, unusual, and conflicting reports coming out of EA.  With disappointing financials posted for the last quarter (a loss of $391Million), EA has decided to trim the “fat” and laid off an amazing 1500 people including management, support staff, developers, and graphics artists.  An internal memo reads:

First, we announced a cost restructuring that involves reducing the number of titles for FY11, enabling us to focus and invest more in our most important franchises and our most promising new IPs. This restructuring involves the elimination of approximately 1,500 jobs across EA. Cuts are being made for titles we are eliminating and in support and corporate areas.* Some team sizes are being reduced and programs that are not working as we’d like are being cut. This is a tough decision that comes with a heavy price for our colleagues – but it is the right decision for EA.* We are sympathetic to everyone that is affected and appreciate everyone’s help as we regroup and move forward.

Also, amidst all the layoffs, EA has decided to boost its position in the social games space by dropping $300M on Playfish.

EA has acquired Playfish for approximately US$275 million in cash and approximately $US25 million in equity retention arrangements. In addition, the sellers are entitled to additional variable cash consideration, up to a maximum of US$100 million, contingent upon the achievement of certain performance milestones through December 31, 2011.

Good luck to all of you former EA employees, and if I was at Playfish I’ld seriously start brushing up my resumé.

via Icrontic Gaming » Massive layoffs looming over EA.