The Need for Speed franchise now three decades in remains a notable IP under Electronic Arts. Although the series has continued to release new entries, the development structure has for sure been shifted. In 2020, it was confirmed that Criterion Games is to retake its helm for the series after the last few titles from Ghost Games. However, the workflow of other franchises did overshadow Need for Speed.
In one report, it was revealed that 2022’s Need for Speed Unbound was delayed due to Criterion Games assisting in Battlefield 2042 at the time. And although the developer did eventually ship the game alongside DICE & Ripple Effect, updates on the next entry does remain tame for Need for Speed. According to one statement, CEO Andrew Wilson did regard the IP as a “meaningful part of our future” as per an earnings call.
This week, Electronic Arts shared an update on Battlefield revealing the formation of Battlefield Studios to show the emphasis the IP needs to return to its glory. Among the new workforce behind the series, Criterion Games stands alongside DICE, Ripple Effect, and EA Motive. Following the announcement, it was confirmed that Need for Speed will remain on ice while work is focused towards Battlefield.
“The Need for Speed team at Criterion are joining their colleagues working on Battlefield. As a company, it was important to us to take the last year to listen to our Need for Speed community and use their feedback to create content for Unbound,” Battlefield general manager Vince Zampella said to Eurogamer. “With an increased understanding of what our players want in a Need for Speed experience, we plan to bring the franchise back in new and interesting ways.”
Zampella is currently overseeing multiple Electronic Arts franchises to find new footing. Previously, it was revealed that Respawn Entertainment’s Apex Legends is searching to expand beyond its battle royale DNA as the live-service now stretches over five years-old. You can read the full report by heading here.
Are you surprised by the update on Need for Speed?
Source: Eurogamer