R.I.P. Origin?

UO Stratics has word that the other shoe may be dropping on the developer of the Ultima and Wing Commander series. According to the report the developer's Austin-based offices will be shut down, and "Employees will be offered an opportunity to relocate to California or accept a severance package. Company officials could not be reached for comment." This consolidation fits with the recent announcement that Maxis is likewise relocating to EA's HQ. On a semi-related note, Electronic Arts and the Growing Trends of the Gaming Industry on GameTheMod discusses EA's history.