What would be a timely refresh cycle for Need for Speed is now delayed. Electronic Arts has confirmed that it is dedicating its Need for Speed game development team Criterion Games for the timely completion and launch of the new Battlefield game version.
According to the company’s official statements, “Criterion is joining DICE and DICE L.A. to focus on Battlefield.” With this move, the new Battlefield game will be launched by this fall. FPS gaming genre fans are in for a treat as EA holds that the “upcoming Battlefield™ game is coming together to be an exceptional game.” The new Battlefield game will be fully optimized for recently-launched consoles, including Sony PlayStation 5, and Xbox Series X.
Why did EA make this move?
Considering the fact that EA shelved the development of one of its most popular racing game series, it’s safe to assume that the company has something big in store for players with the new Battlefield game.
The company’s statement. “We want to build on our position of strength, focus on the opportunity in front of us, and set our game makers up for success to deliver the best experience possible to our players this fall” offers a good context.
Also, EA and Criterion may have plans to include significant changes on the upcoming Need for Speed game which may require more development time. According to the company, “Criterion is one of the strongest racing studios in the industry, and the work they have accomplished on the next Need For Speed™ is truly inspired and will breathe new life into one of our most storied brands. We’re going to give Criterion the time to reach the game’s full promise and deliver it in FY23.”
EA’s acquisition of racing game development company Codemasters is also speculated to influence the significant changes for the new Need for Speed game.