Electronic Arts has confirmed a series of significant organizational and project changes, including layoffs and studio closures, following its acquisition by Saudi Arabia's Public Investment Fund (PIF). The publisher stated that these decisions were difficult but necessary as the company navigates a new era.
Layoffs and Studio Closure
EA confirmed that it has initiated layoffs impacting approximately 400 employees. In a statement, the company described the decision as "difficult" and pledged to treat affected staff with "care and respect," noting that some may have opportunities to find new roles within EA. The most significant structural change is the closure of BioWare, the Montreal-based studio renowned for its role-playing game franchises. With fewer than 100 employees, BioWare was reportedly working on the next installment in the Mass Effect series, which has now been canceled. EA acknowledged BioWare's legacy, stating it was a "legendary studio that helped define the role-playing genre."
Project Shifts
Beyond the cancellation of the new Mass Effect, EA has also paused development on Project Lotus, the codename for a new entry in The Sims franchise. The focus for The Sims development team will now shift to Project Evergreen, though details about this project remain undisclosed. Meanwhile, the upcoming Skate game, which launched in 2025, will continue to operate online, but EA is implementing changes to its development studio, including staff reductions, to create a "more focused, smaller team" with a "clear roadmap" for a "healthier and more sustainable business."
Future Projects
EA Sports is continuing its operations, with plans for two new projects in addition to its annual sports titles. One is a "brand-new, social-first open-world" football game codenamed Project Gridiron. The other is the return of the Fight Night series after a 15-year absence. In the shooter genre, EA noted that Battlefield 6 was a "great success" and that the studio "learned a lot from the launch and live service." Future Battlefield titles are planned, as well as a collaborative project between Respawn and DICE. Reports indicate this collaboration could be a new Star Wars: Battlefront game, building on the success of DICE's previous entries in the series. Apex Legends will also continue to receive significant investment, with plans for new gameplay modes and experiences.
EA also confirmed that its Iron Man game remains in development, alongside the next Star Wars Jedi title. The company stated it will "concentrate our efforts on fewer simultaneous, large-scale projects, ensuring that every game we build in this space is fully set up for success."
The extensive restructuring follows EA's acquisition by PIF, Silver Lake, and Affinity Partners in a $55 billion leveraged buyout, the largest in business history. Such financial maneuvers often lead to cost-cutting measures to manage significant debt.