Essential Insights
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The Need for Speed franchise is reportedly shelved by Electronic Arts, with implications of its uncertain future after over 20 titles since its debut in 1994.
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Matthew Everingham indicated via social media that EA is "quietly parking" the series and that funded site Speedhunters will also cease operations.
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Recent internal shifts at EA, including the transfer of Criterion Games staff to the Battlefield franchise, suggest a diminishing focus on new Need for Speed projects.
- The latest game, Need for Speed Unbound, released in December 2022, has received mixed reviews, adding to concerns about the franchise’s viability.
EA Hits the Brakes on Need for Speed Franchise
Electronic Arts is reportedly putting the brakes on the Need for Speed franchise. According to sources, the beloved racing series is "shelved" and "quietly parked" for now. This comes from Matthew Everingham, a well-known figure in car culture who often engages with Speedhunters, a site previously backed by EA.
Recent internal shifts signal an uncertain future for the series. Earlier this month, EA announced the shutdown of online servers for Need for Speed Rivals, effective October 7. Moreover, Criterion Games, the studio behind the franchise, has redirected most of its staff to focus on the Battlefield series. Only a small team remains dedicated to the racing title in 2023.
The Need for Speed franchise boasts a rich history. It began in 1994 with its debut on the original PlayStation and Sega Saturn. Over the decades, it has produced more than 20 titles. The latest, Need for Speed Unbound, released in December 2022, holds a Mixed rating on Steam, with upwards of 40,000 reviews.
While fans may feel disappointed, this pause could offer an opportunity for a fresh direction. Transitioning resources to new projects like Battlefield may ultimately enhance EA’s overall gaming ecosystem. In the meantime, die-hard fans will need to wait and see what’s next for this iconic series.
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