In a significant shift, Electronic Arts has paused all work on its well-known Need for Speed (NFS) franchise and redirected Criterion Games to focus entirely on the next Battlefield title. The change comes just as EA unveiled pre-alpha gameplay footage from the upcoming Battlefield game, along with a new community testing program.
Criterion Games Shifts Focus to Battlefield Development
Vince Zampella, head of Respawn Entertainment at EA and now overseeing the Battlefield franchise, confirmed on Monday that Criterion Games will no longer be working on Need for Speed. Instead, they will be joining forces with other EA studios like DICE and Ripple Effect to develop the next Battlefield title.
Zampella explained that this decision was made after carefully listening to the Need for Speed community. He noted that the team took the past year to gather feedback from players and refine content for NFS Unbound. Despite this shift, Zampella emphasized that the company intends to bring the Need for Speed franchise back in the future with a fresh approach, inspired by the feedback they received from fans.
“We want to bring the franchise back in new and interesting ways,” said Zampella.
Criterion’s Long History with NFS and Battlefield
Criterion Games has been a key player in the Need for Speed series since 2010, with several notable releases under its belt. The studio also has a history with the Battlefield franchise, having contributed to Battlefield 1 back in 2016. However, the studio’s current shift in focus is a clear commitment to the upcoming Battlefield game, signaling EA’s all-in approach to the franchise.
Zampella reassured fans that while Criterion is now mainly working on Battlefield, a core group from the studio will still work on the future of NFS. Since then, NFS Unbound has received several content updates, keeping the franchise alive for the time being.
Battlefield’s Future: A Return to Core Values
EA has been carefully listening to player feedback, especially after the mixed reception of Battlefield 2042 in 2021. The company has promised to return to the franchise’s roots, focusing on what made earlier Battlefield titles so popular.
The next game in the series will bring back 64-player maps and a modern setting, providing a familiar experience for fans of the franchise. EA had teased these details earlier, sharing concept art in September 2024, but Monday marked the first official look at the upcoming title.
In addition to the pre-alpha gameplay footage, EA also introduced Battlefield Labs, a new program aimed at community testing. This initiative is designed to gather player feedback during the development process, allowing EA to incorporate player suggestions into the final game.
Battlefield Labs: A New Way to Shape the Game
Battlefield Labs will give players the opportunity to test various aspects of the game before its official release. EA explained that the program would allow the community to provide feedback on multiple elements of the game, including combat mechanics, destruction, weapons, and gadgets.
Not only will core combat be tested first, but players will also have the chance to experience maps, game modes, and squad play. The two popular Battlefield modes, Conquest and Breakthrough, will also be available for testing as part of the program.
The goal of Battlefield Labs is to refine the game and ensure it aligns with player expectations. As EA works to create a more balanced and engaging experience, this feedback will help the development team address issues and improve game mechanics.
The Road Ahead for EA and Battlefield
With Criterion Games now fully integrated into the Battlefield development process, EA is clearly committed to creating a game that will resonate with fans of the franchise. The collaboration between multiple EA studios, including DICE, Ripple Effect, and Motive, signals a unified effort to deliver a standout military shooter.
Zampella’s leadership and the full support of the EA Entertainment division highlight the scale of this project. While Battlefield 2042 faced criticism, EA is determined to correct its course and make the next entry in the series a success.
A Fresh Direction for Need for Speed
Although Criterion Games is now dedicated to Battlefield, EA made it clear that Need for Speed has not been forgotten. Zampella reassured fans that once the Battlefield title is complete, the team would return to NFS. This shift allows EA to refocus on Need for Speed in an exciting and innovative way, using the feedback from players to guide the future of the franchise.
While NFS Unbound continues to receive updates, the next installment in the Need for Speed series will likely have a different direction. Criterion’s deep connection to the franchise will ensure that the series stays true to its roots, while also pushing it forward with fresh ideas.
EA’s Vision for the Future
EA’s recent moves highlight its commitment to delivering high-quality experiences in both the Battlefield and Need for Speed franchises. The introduction of Battlefield Labs allows players to influence the development process, ensuring the next Battlefield title reflects what fans truly want.
With Criterion Games focused on Battlefield, fans can expect an exciting new chapter in the series, while Need for Speed fans can look forward to the return of the franchise in the future. EA’s focus on community-driven development could shape the future of its most popular titles.