Tag Archives: Electronic Arts

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BioWare and EA Confirm Anthem will have its server shutdown in 2026

In a move that surprises no one but still stings for many, BioWare and Electronic Arts have officially announced the end of Anthem. The troubled live-service looter shooter will have its servers permanently shut down on January 12, 2026, rendering the game completely unplayable. For a title once heralded as BioWare’s bold leap into the future, this marks a quiet, somber conclusion to a saga defined by ambition, missteps, and missed potential.

First unveiled with cinematic flair at E3 2017, Anthem promised a lush alien world, customizable mech suits called Javelins, and seamless co-op action. It was BioWare’s attempt to blend its narrative pedigree with the loot-driven gameplay of titles like Destiny and Warframe. But when Anthem launched in February 2019, it was clear the game wasn’t ready.

  • Development Hell: Reports later revealed that Anthem’s core design wasn’t finalized until just months before its reveal. The game had been in development since 2012, but much of it came together in a chaotic final year.
  • Critical Reception: Critics and players alike cited a lack of content, repetitive missions, and technical issues. Despite its stunning visuals and promising flight mechanics, the game felt hollow.
  • Anthem 2.0 Cancelled: In 2020, BioWare announced plans for a full overhaul dubbed Anthem Next. But by February 2021, that reboot was canceled as the studio shifted focus to Dragon Age: The Veilguard and the next Mass Effect.

According to EA’s official blog post:

  • Anthem will be delisted from EA Play and Xbox Game Pass Ultimate on August 15, 2025.
  • Players can no longer purchase the game or its premium currency as of July 3, 2025.
  • Any remaining in-game currency can be spent until the servers go offline.
  • Once the servers shut down, the game will be completely unplayable, with no offline mode planned.

Anthem’s demise is more than just the end of a game—it’s a cautionary tale. It highlights the risks of chasing trends without a clear vision, of launching before a game is ready, and of abandoning core studio strengths in pursuit of market share. BioWare, once synonymous with deep RPGs like Mass Effect and Dragon Age, found itself adrift in unfamiliar waters.

The shutdown also reignites debate around game preservation. With no offline mode, Anthem will vanish entirely—a digital ghost. This has fueled movements like Stop Killing Games, which challenge the legality and ethics of rendering purchased games unplayable.

For those who stuck with Anthem, who found joy in soaring through its skies or customizing their Javelins, this is a bittersweet farewell. The game may not have lived up to its promise, but it wasn’t without merit. And for a brief moment, it dared to dream big.

If you’ve ever played Anthem, now’s the time to revisit it—before the lights go out for good.

Anthem Game Update
We have an important update to share regarding Anthem.
Source/Via
Featured, Games, Gaming, News

Black Panther original game canned as Electronic Arts folds developer studio

In a surprising turn of events, Electronic Arts (EA) has officially canceled its highly anticipated Black Panther game and shut down Cliffhanger Games, the studio responsible for its development. This decision has left fans and developers alike mourning the loss of what could have been a groundbreaking addition to the Marvel gaming universe.

Originally announced in 2023, EA’s Black Panther game was set to be a single-player, open-world action-adventure experience, developed in collaboration with Marvel Games. The game aimed to immerse players in the world of Wakanda, allowing them to step into the shoes of its legendary protector.

However, new details have emerged revealing that the game’s protagonist would not have been T’Challa himself, but rather his son, Azari. The story was reportedly set to begin with Azari engaging in ritual combat against T’Challa, only for the battle to be interrupted by an invasion of Skrulls, who would ultimately kidnap T’Challa. This narrative twist promised a fresh take on the Black Panther legacy, introducing new characters and conflicts that could have expanded the Marvel gaming universe in exciting ways.

Why Was It Canceled?

The cancellation of Black Panther appears to be part of a broader restructuring within EA. The company has been making significant cutbacks, including layoffs across multiple departments. EA Entertainment president Laura Miele stated that the decision was made to “sharpen our focus and put our creative energy behind the most significant growth opportunities”.

Despite the cancellation, EA’s multi-title partnership with Marvel remains intact, with other projects—such as an Iron Man game—still in development. However, the loss of Black Panther has raised concerns about EA’s commitment to licensed IPs, as the company has been shifting its focus toward core franchises like Battlefield, The Sims, and Apex Legends.

The closure of Cliffhanger Games has left many developers heartbroken, with several expressing their disappointment on social media. Concept artist Karla Ortiz described the game as “detailed, rich, beautiful”, lamenting that the world would never get to see it. Game design director Sophie Mallinson praised her colleagues, calling them a “dream team” and urging other studios to “snap up anyone who was working on this project”.

What’s Next for Black Panther in Gaming?

While EA’s Black Panther project has been scrapped, fans of the character still have something to look forward to. Marvel 1943: Rise of Hydra, an upcoming game from Skydance New Media, will feature Black Panther and Captain America as playable characters. This project, led by industry veteran Amy Hennig, promises to bring a fresh perspective to the Marvel gaming landscape.

The cancellation of EA’s Black Panther game is a major loss for both Marvel fans and the gaming industry. The prospect of playing as Azari, battling Skrulls, and exploring Wakanda in an open-world setting was an exciting vision that will now remain unrealized. While EA continues to focus on its core franchises, the hope remains that Black Panther will one day receive the definitive gaming experience it deserves.

EA Cancels Black Panther Game, Closes Cliffhanger Games – IGN
Electronic Arts is canceling its planned Black Panther game and shutting down developer Cliffhanger Games, IGN has learned.
Source/Via
Games, Gaming, News

The End of an Era: Electronic Arts and Codemasters Abandon WRC Games

For rally racing fans, the name Codemasters has long been synonymous with high-quality, immersive rally games. From the legendary Colin McRae Rally series to the Dirt franchise, Codemasters has been a driving force in bringing the thrill of off-road racing to gamers worldwide.

However, recent developments have signaled the end of an era—Electronic Arts (EA) has announced that Codemasters will no longer be developing World Rally Championship (WRC) games, effectively halting the studio’s involvement in rally gaming.

The decision to step away from WRC games comes amid broader changes within EA. The publisher has been restructuring its gaming portfolio, leading to layoffs and project cancellations. While EA initially acquired Codemasters in 2021 with the promise of becoming a “global leader in racing entertainment,” the reality has been far more turbulent. In 2022, EA shut down Codemasters’ Project Cars series, and in 2023, the studio faced significant layoffs.

Now, with rally racing off the table, Codemasters appears to be shifting its focus entirely to Formula 1 (F1) games, with F1 25 set to release soon. This marks a major shift for the studio, which has spent nearly three decades crafting some of the most beloved rally titles in gaming history.

What’s Next for WRC Games?

While Codemasters is stepping away, the Fédération Internationale de l’Automobile (FIA) has assured fans that WRC gaming will continue. The organization has hinted at an “ambitious new direction” for the franchise, though details remain scarce. This suggests that another developer may take the reins, potentially bringing fresh ideas and innovations to the WRC gaming experience.

For now, EA has confirmed that EA Sports WRC will remain available for existing and new players, ensuring that rally fans can still enjoy the latest installment. However, without Codemasters at the helm, the future of WRC gaming remains uncertain.

Codemasters’ departure from WRC games is a bittersweet moment for rally enthusiasts. While the studio’s legacy in rally gaming is undeniable, the shift toward F1 titles reflects the evolving priorities within EA. The hope now lies in the FIA’s promise of a new direction—one that could breathe fresh life into WRC gaming.

As we wait for more details, one thing is certain: rally fans will be watching closely to see who takes the wheel next.

This is the second and almost immediate bad news we got from Electronic Arts right after Respawn Entertainment acknowledged cancelling two gaming projects to concentrate on Apex Legends and Star Wars games.

Business, Games, Gaming, News

Respawn Entertainment Cancels Two Early-Stage Games Amid EA Layoffs

In a surprising turn of events, Respawn Entertainment, the studio behind Titanfall, Apex Legends, and Star Wars Jedi, has announced the cancellation of two early-stage incubation projects. This decision comes as part of a broader restructuring within Electronic Arts (EA), which has reportedly laid off between 300 and 400 employees, including around 100 staff members at Respawn Entertainment.

The Cancelled Projects: What We Know

According to a Bloomberg report, one of the cancelled projects, codenamed R7, was an extraction shooter set in the Titanfall universe. The second project, a multiplayer first-person shooter, was reportedly scrapped earlier this year. While details remain scarce, the cancellation of R7 has dashed hopes for a new Titanfall-related game, further cementing the franchise’s uncertain future.

BREAKING: Electronic Arts is laying off between 300 and 400 staff, including around 100 at Respawn, and canceling a Titanfall extraction shooter that was in early development, according to people familiar. www.bloomberg.com/news/article…

— Jason Schreier (@jasonschreier.bsky.social) 2025-04-29T19:04:37.647Z

Respawn Entertainment addressed the cancellations in a statement, saying:
“As we sharpen our focus for the future, we’ve made the decision to step away from two early-stage incubation projects and make some targeted team adjustments across Apex Legends and Star Wars Jedi.”

EA has framed these layoffs and cancellations as part of a long-term strategic realignment. A spokesperson for the company stated that the changes were made to “more effectively align teams and allocate resources in service of driving future growth.” However, industry insiders suggest that underwhelming performances from titles like EA Sports FC and Apex Legends may have contributed to the restructuring.

Despite the cancellations, Respawn remains committed to its existing franchises. The studio emphasized that Apex Legends will continue to expand, and the next installment in the Star Wars Jedi series aims to “raise the bar again for storytelling and gameplay.”

What’s Next for Respawn?

While Respawn has reassured fans that its “commitment to player-first experiences remains unchanged,” the cancellation of R7 and the multiplayer FPS raises concerns about the studio’s future direction. With EA making significant cuts across multiple departments, including customer support and marketing, the gaming industry is left wondering how these changes will impact upcoming projects.

For now, Titanfall fans will have to wait and see whether Respawn will ever revisit the beloved franchise. As EA continues to restructure, the fate of future Respawn titles remains uncertain.

What do you think about these cancellations? Are you disappointed about the Titanfall project being scrapped? Let’s discuss in the comments!

Entertainment, Games, Gaming, Movies, News

Split Fiction is already heading to theaters

The world of gaming and cinema is abuzz with excitement as the critically acclaimed video game Split Fiction gears up for its big-screen adaptation. Developed by Hazelight Studios and published by Electronic Arts, Split Fiction has captivated players with its unique blend of fantasy and science fiction, coupled with innovative co-op gameplay mechanics.

Released in March 2025, the game quickly became a commercial and critical success, selling over two million copies in its first week.

The story of Split Fiction revolves around two writers, Mio and Zoe, who are polar opposites in their literary preferences—Mio is a sci-fi enthusiast, while Zoe is deeply rooted in fantasy. The duo is invited by a book publisher to test a device that brings their stories to life.

However, things take a dramatic turn when they find themselves trapped in a simulated world that merges their narratives. The stakes are high as they must navigate this chaotic mashup to escape before their ideas are stolen and they are trapped forever.

According to Variety, the upcoming movie adaptation has already attracted significant attention, with Jon M. Chu, known for Wicked and Crazy Rich Asians, set to direct. Sydney Sweeney, celebrated for her roles in Euphoria and Madame Web, is attached to star in the film and will also serve as an executive producer. The screenplay is being crafted by Rhett Reese and Paul Wernick, the talented duo behind Deadpool and Wolverine. While Sweeney’s role—whether Mio or Zoe—has yet to be confirmed, her involvement has heightened anticipation for the project.

The film is being produced by Story Kitchen, a powerhouse in video game-to-screen adaptations, with a track record that includes the Sonic the Hedgehog films and the upcoming Streets of Rage movie. With such a stellar team behind it, the Split Fiction movie promises to be a faithful and thrilling adaptation of the game, exploring the dynamic relationship between its protagonists and the challenges of blending their contrasting worlds.

As the boundaries between gaming and cinema continue to blur, Split Fiction stands as a testament to the storytelling potential of video games and their ability to inspire compelling cinematic experiences. Fans of the game and newcomers alike are eagerly awaiting more updates on this exciting project.

Will the movie capture the magic of the game? Only time will tell, but the journey promises to be an unforgettable one.

Games, Gaming, News, Nintendo, PC, Playstation, Xbox

EA Sports Shakes Up the Football Gaming Landscape with Major Announcements

EA Sports has officially unveiled its plans for Madden NFL 26 and College Football 26, and the gaming community is buzzing with excitement—and a bit of controversy. The announcement, made on NFL Draft Day, confirmed that both titles will launch this summer, but with a significant shift: neither game will be available on PlayStation 4 or Xbox One. This marks a pivotal moment in EA Sports’ transition away from previous-generation consoles, fully embracing the power of modern hardware.

For years, EA Sports has maintained support for older consoles, ensuring that players who hadn’t upgraded could still enjoy their annual football fix. However, with Madden NFL 26, the franchise is making a clean break, focusing exclusively on PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S, and the upcoming Switch 2. This decision aligns with the industry’s broader trend of prioritizing current-gen hardware to deliver higher fidelity graphics, improved gameplay mechanics, and deeper immersion.

Meanwhile, College Football 26 is set to continue the revival of EA’s beloved college football series, which returned last year after a decade-long hiatus. The game promises an expanded career mode, allowing players to take their athlete from high school to college and eventually the NFL. This seamless progression between the two games is a major selling point, reinforcing EA’s vision of a connected football universe.

Why Leave Previous-Gen Behind?

The exclusion of PS4 and Xbox One is a bold move, but not entirely unexpected. These consoles, launched in 2013, are now over a decade old, and their hardware limitations have increasingly hindered developers from pushing the boundaries of gaming technology. By focusing on current-gen platforms, EA Sports can leverage advanced physics engines, enhanced AI, and more detailed player animations, creating a more authentic football experience.

Additionally, the shift allows EA to streamline development, ensuring that both Madden NFL 26 and College Football 26 take full advantage of next-gen capabilities without being constrained by outdated hardware.

Release Dates and Pre-Order Details

Gamers eager to dive into the action won’t have to wait long. College Football 26 is set to launch on July 10, 2025, with early access available on July 7 for those who pre-order the Deluxe Edition. Madden NFL 26 will follow shortly after, arriving on August 14, 2025, with early access beginning August 11.

For players looking to grab both games, EA is offering an MVP Bundle, which includes exclusive in-game content and early access perks. This bundle is designed to cater to die-hard football fans who want the full EA Sports football experience.

EA Sports’ decision to leave behind previous-generation consoles is a clear signal that the gaming industry is moving forward. While some players may be disappointed, the shift promises better graphics, smoother gameplay, and deeper immersion. With Madden NFL 26 and College Football 26, EA is betting big on the future of football gaming—and it looks like they’re ready to deliver.

Games, Gaming, News

Respawn Entertainment shared the first look on the next Star Wars game from EA

Respawn Entertainment, in collaboration with Bit Reactor and EA, has officially unveiled their latest Star Wars game, Star Wars: Zero Company, during the Star Wars Celebration event in Japan on April 19, 2025. This single-player turn-based tactics game is set to release in 2026 for PC, PlayStation 5, and Xbox Series X|S.

Game Overview

Star Wars: Zero Company is set during the twilight of the Clone Wars, offering a gritty and authentic story that explores a fresh perspective within the Star Wars universe. Players will take on the role of Hawks, a former Republic officer who commands an elite squad of operatives from across the galaxy. The squad must overcome their differences to confront an emerging threat that could consume the galaxy.

Gameplay Features

The game emphasizes tactical operations and investigations across the galaxy. Players will have the freedom to create and customize their squad, tailoring appearances, load-outs, and abilities across various character archetypes, including Clone Troopers, astromechs, and even Jedi. Between missions, players will develop a base of operations and gather intelligence through a network of informant

Bit Reactor, known for its expertise in strategy games, is leading the development alongside Respawn Entertainment. The game promises deep turn-based tactical combat with meaningful outcomes from player choices, all presented in an approachable and cinematic style. The collaboration aims to deliver a unique Star Wars story that resonates with fans while introducing innovative gameplay mechanics.

Story Highlights

The narrative focuses on Hawks and his squad, offering a boots-on-the-ground perspective of the Clone Wars. The story draws inspiration from the political intrigue of Andor and the gritty battles of Rogue One, providing a fresh angle on the Star Wars saga.

Games, Gaming, News

Electronic Arts games will make part of Amazon Luna offerings

Amazon and Electronic Arts (EA) have recently announced a groundbreaking multi-year agreement that is set to redefine the landscape of cloud gaming. This partnership brings some of EA’s most beloved games to Amazon Luna, Amazon’s cloud gaming service, making high-quality gaming more accessible than ever before.

The Agreement: A New Era for Cloud Gaming

The collaboration between Amazon and EA is a strategic move aimed at expanding the reach of premium gaming experiences. Starting in March 2025, Amazon Luna+ subscribers can enjoy critically acclaimed titles such as Star Wars Jedi: Fallen Order, Star Wars Jedi: Survivor, and the 2023 remake of Dead Space. These games are now available to play on a variety of devices, including Fire TV, Fire Tablets, PCs, Macs, iOS and Android mobile devices, and select smart TVs from brands like Samsung and LG.

This partnership is not limited to a few titles. EA has committed to bringing more of its popular franchises, including games from the EA Sports portfolio, to Luna in the coming months. This move aligns with EA’s vision of making its games accessible to players “on any device, anywhere,” as stated by David Tinson, EA’s Executive Vice President and Chief Experiences Officer.

Accessibility and Expansion

One of the most exciting aspects of this agreement is its focus on accessibility. Cloud gaming eliminates the need for expensive gaming hardware, lengthy downloads, and updates. Players can simply launch the Luna app and start playing, making high-quality gaming experiences available to a broader audience.

Amazon Luna has also expanded its service to four new countries—Sweden, Portugal, Belgium, and Luxembourg—bringing its total availability to 14 countries worldwide. This expansion coincides with the launch of EA games on the platform, ensuring that more players can enjoy these titles without the barriers of traditional gaming setups.

The partnership between Amazon and EA is more than just a content drop; it’s a strategic move to test the waters of cloud gaming for narrative-heavy, single-player experiences. The inclusion of the Star Wars Jedi series and Dead Space sets a high standard for the type of games players can expect on Luna. Additionally, the promise of EA Sports titles hints at a diverse and robust library in the making.

Amazon Luna’s growing library, which already includes over 300 games, is a testament to its commitment to making gaming more fun, affordable, and accessible. With this new partnership, Luna is poised to compete with other cloud gaming giants like Xbox Cloud Gaming and Nvidia GeForce Now.

Conclusion

The Amazon-EA agreement is a win-win for both companies and gamers. It not only enhances Luna’s library but also aligns with EA’s goal of reaching more players across the globe. As cloud gaming continues to evolve, partnerships like this one will play a crucial role in shaping the future of the industry.

Whether you’re a fan of the Star Wars Jedi series, a horror enthusiast eager to revisit Dead Space, or a sports aficionado looking forward to EA Sports titles, Amazon Luna’s collaboration with EA offers something for everyone. This is just the beginning of what promises to be an exciting journey for cloud gaming enthusiasts.

What are your thoughts on this partnership? Are you excited to see more EA games on Amazon Luna?

Breaking, Games, Gaming, News

Surprising Command & Conquer move by Electronic Arts

In a groundbreaking move that has thrilled gamers and developers alike, Electronic Arts has released the source code for several classic titles in the Command & Conquer series. This decision marks a significant milestone in the history of gaming, as it not only preserves the legacy of these iconic real-time strategy (RTS) games but also empowers the community to breathe new life into them.

The Command & Conquer series, often abbreviated as C&C, debuted in 1995 with Command & Conquer: Tiberian Dawn. Developed by Westwood Studios, the game was a pioneer in the RTS genre, introducing players to a world of strategic warfare, resource management, and gripping narratives. The series quickly gained a cult following, with subsequent titles like Red Alert, Renegade, and Generals cementing its place in gaming history.

Over the years, the franchise faced challenges, including the closure of Westwood Studios in 2003 and mixed reception to later entries. Despite these hurdles, the C&C community remained passionate, keeping the spirit of the games alive through mods, fan projects, and online forums.

The Road to Open Source

EA’s decision to release the source code for Tiberian Dawn, Red Alert, Renegade, and Generals under the GNU General Public License (GPL) is a testament to the enduring legacy of the series. This initiative builds on the success of the Command & Conquer Remastered Collection, released in 2020, which included remastered versions of Tiberian Dawn and Red Alert. The remastered collection was praised for its faithful recreation of the originals and its inclusion of modding tools.

The journey to open source was spearheaded by Luke “CCHyper” Feenan, a veteran of the C&C community and a key figure in the development of the remastered collection. Over the past year, Feenan worked closely with EA to restore the original source code archives to a buildable state. This meticulous process involved recovering and organizing decades-old files, ensuring that the code could be used effectively by the community.

What This Means for the Community

The release of the source code is a game-changer for the C&C community. Modders and developers now have unprecedented access to the inner workings of these classic games, enabling them to create new content, fix bugs, and even develop entirely new experiences. EA has also introduced Steam Workshop support for several titles, making it easier than ever for players to share and discover mods.

This move is not just about preserving the past; it’s about inspiring the future. By opening up the source code, EA has given the community the tools to innovate and expand upon the foundations laid by Westwood Studios. Whether it’s creating new campaigns, enhancing graphics, or experimenting with gameplay mechanics, the possibilities are endless.

The release of the source code is a bold step that underscores EA’s commitment to the C&C franchise and its fans. It acknowledges the importance of community-driven creativity and the role it plays in keeping classic games relevant in an ever-evolving industry.

As we look to the future, one thing is clear: the Command & Conquer series is far from over. With the passion and ingenuity of its community, these games will continue to inspire and entertain for generations to come.

Business, Gaming, News

EA had a thing to say about is Q3 2025 for Dragon Age: The Veilguard

Electronic Arts (EA) recently announced its Q3 FY25 earnings, revealing a mix of successes and challenges across its portfolio. The company reported net bookings of $2.215 billion for the quarter, with notable performances from several franchises.

EA SPORTS FC 25 continued its strong momentum, achieving record success with the Team of the Year event, driving engagement levels above expectations. The franchise has grown more than 70% over the last five fiscal years, making it one of the biggest sports entertainment properties in the world.

American Football also saw double-digit growth in weekly active users year-over-year, and remains on pace to surpass $1 billion in net bookings for fiscal year 2025.

However, not all games performed as expected. Dragon Age: The Veilguard, despite receiving positive reviews from critics and players, did not resonate with a broad audience. EA CEO Andrew Wilson attributed this to the game’s lack of live service features, which are increasingly sought after by modern gamers. The game’s sales performance missed projections by 50%, reaching only about 1.5 million players.

Despite these challenges, EA remains confident in its long-term strategy and has announced a $1 billion accelerated stock repurchase program, bringing total stock repurchases to $2.5 billion within the first year of its $5 billion authorization.

Despite the strong performance in certain areas, EA faces challenges in maintaining its growth trajectory. Analysts have noted that EA’s revenue guidance for the next quarter is lower than expected, with adjusted earnings projected at $3.08 per share.

The company has missed Wall Street’s revenue estimates four times over the last two years, indicating potential volatility in its financial performance.