Electronic Arts to close Austin studio (thanks HomeLAN Fed) has the official confirmation of reports (story) that the Austin, Texas-based offices of Origin Systems will be closed:

EA, the world's largest game publisher, has been consolidating its development operations around major "hubs" like its Redwood City, California headquarters, its studio in Vancouver and a new facility being established in Los Angeles.

A spokeswoman said development would continue on "Ultima Online" and "Ultima X: Odyssey" at the headquarters studio.

Many of the 100 or so employees in Austin were being offered the chance to move to California, while those who do not move will receive severance packages.