Tag Archives: Electronic Arts

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.

Business, Games, Gaming, News

Electronic Arts Acquires TRACAB Technologies: A Game-Changer for EA Sports

Electronic Arts (EA) has recently announced its agreement to acquire TRACAB Technologies, a leader in advanced sports optical tracking and analysis solutions. This acquisition is set to revolutionize EA Sports’ approach to creating immersive and realistic sports experiences.

What is TRACAB Technologies?

TRACAB Technologies specializes in real-time data capture and analysis using advanced optical tracking technology. Their systems can track almost everything happening on the field or pitch at 60Hz per second, generating 600 million data points per game. This includes 65 unique data points per player and referee, capturing live skeleton data from 21 joints on each body on the pitch.

https://media.contentapi.ea.com/content/dam/eacom/videos/2025/02/ea-sports-realism-technology-article-sc2-16x9.mp4?_=1

Why is this Acquisition Significant?

  1. Enhanced Realism and Immersion: By integrating TRACAB’s technology, EA Sports aims to create lifelike animations and simulations that closely mimic real-world sports action. This will significantly enhance the realism and immersion of their games.
  2. Advanced AI and Machine Learning: TRACAB’s technology will enable EA Sports to harness advanced AI and machine learning models, powered by real-world volumetric data. This will lead to incredible advancements in gameplay and animation capabilities.
  3. Beyond Games: EA Sports envisions the EA SPORTS App as the leading interactive sports platform in the world. TRACAB’s technology will support this vision by providing near real-time insights for media broadcast teams, referees, players, coaches, and fans.
  4. Global Expansion: Currently available in Spain, the EA SPORTS App plans to expand globally, offering fans new opportunities to create highlights and predictive simulations.

The acquisition is expected to close in EA’s first fiscal quarter of FY26. With TRACAB’s cutting-edge technology and expertise, EA Sports is poised to accelerate groundbreaking new features in their games and the EA SPORTS App. This will not only enhance the gaming experience but also create more dynamic and engaging sports experiences for fans worldwide.

The acquisition of TRACAB Technologies marks an exciting new chapter for EA Sports. By leveraging TRACAB’s advanced tracking technology, EA Sports is set to push the boundaries of sports simulations, creating living, breathing simulations of sport that will captivate and engage fans like never before.

Breaking, Games, Gaming, News

Battlefield Labs will help EA shape the next Battlefield main game

The Battlefield franchise has long been synonymous with large-scale, intense warfare and groundbreaking multiplayer experiences. With the announcement of Battlefield Labs, Electronic Arts (EA) is taking a bold step towards ensuring that the next entry in the series, tentatively titled Battlefield 6, will be the best yet.

Battlefield Labs is a new community testing program designed to involve fans in the development process of the upcoming Battlefield game. This initiative allows players to test various aspects of the game, including combat mechanics, modes, maps, and more.

By gathering feedback from the community, EA aims to catch any major issues early on and refine the game to meet player expectations.

Why is Battlefield Labs Important?

The last few Battlefield games, particularly Battlefield 2042, faced significant criticism due to technical issues and gameplay problems. Battlefield Labs is EA’s response to these challenges, providing a platform for extensive playtesting and community engagement. This approach is expected to help the developers avoid the pitfalls of previous installments and deliver a polished, well-received game.

Signing up for Battlefield Labs is straightforward. Players need to visit the Battlefield Labs website, log in with their EA account, and click on the “Sign Up Now” button. However, spots are limited, and the initial testing phase is restricted to players in Europe and North America. Participants will need to sign a non-disclosure agreement (NDA) before gaining access to the pre-alpha build of the game.

The testing will begin with core gameplay mechanics such as combat and destruction. This will be followed by testing weapon, vehicle, and gadget balancing, as well as specific maps and gameplay modes. The goal is to test almost everything, although not all features will be complete at this stage. The feedback from these tests will be invaluable in shaping the final product.

The Future of Battlefield

Battlefield Labs is part of a broader strategy by EA to revitalize the franchise. The newly formed Battlefield Studios brings together developers from DICE, Criterion, Motive, and Ripple Effect to create a truly ambitious game. The return of the single-player campaign, a departure from the multiplayer-only approach of Battlefield 2042, is one of the most exciting aspects of the upcoming game.

Battlefield Labs represents a significant shift in how EA is developing the Battlefield series. By involving the community in the testing process, EA hopes to create a game that not only meets but exceeds player expectations. With the collective expertise of Battlefield Studios and the valuable feedback from Battlefield Labs, the next entry in the series has the potential to be a groundbreaking success.