EA's Executive Vice President, Vince Zampella, has recently provided an update on the current state of the Need for Speed series. It's been over two years since the release of NFS Unbound, and fans have been eagerly awaiting news on the franchise's future. However, there's a strategic reason behind EA's silence: Criterion Games, the studio behind Need for Speed, is currently pouring its efforts into the development of the next installment in the Battlefield series.
According to Zampella, EA is heavily invested in the new Battlefield project, which is being crafted with a keen focus on player feedback. This ambitious endeavor involves collaboration across four different studios, underscoring EA's commitment to delivering a game that resonates with its community. This shift in focus comes after the launch of Battlefield 2042, which faced significant backlash due to its controversial gameplay choices. Zampella has emphasized that the team is determined not to repeat past mistakes, ensuring that the new Battlefield will be a direct response to player sentiments.
This player-centric approach extends to the future of NFS Unbound as well. While fans might be disappointed by the lack of new Need for Speed announcements, this pause could be beneficial. Recent NFS titles have not met fan expectations, and taking a break might allow EA to reboot the franchise effectively. By giving players time to move past previous disappointments and build up nostalgia, EA could be setting the stage for a triumphant return to the streets of Need for Speed.
In the meantime, don't hold your breath for any Need for Speed announcements. EA's priority is clear: the new Battlefield is their current focus, and Need for Speed will likely take a backseat until after the release and initial support phase of the upcoming Battlefield game.