Net Yaroze European to server to close

After 12 years, Sony’s Net Yaroze Programme has come to an end.

Started in March 1997, the PlayStation project was designed with the goal of making modern console development accessible to non-professionals.

For many, it offered a unique opportunity to learn about developing for the most popular console at the time – indeed, many of the original members used their experiences with the service as a stepping stone to entering the industry.

Subscribers received special devkits and access to an online message board and community site.

But after a dozen years service, the ageing Netyaroze-Europe server is at the end of its life, and SCEE are planning to turn it off in July, the company tells us.
“We plan to make a copy of the site available for our original members,” explained SCEE R&D’s Paul Holman.

He also said that a drinks party to celebrate the programme’s achievements for its original members will be held at either Develop in Brighton or SCEE’s London office.

More can be read about Net Yaroze at its official websites.