In a recent announcement, Electronic Arts (EA) CEO Andrew Wilson revealed a significant transformation within EA Games’ studio structure.
The studios will now be divided into two distinct organizations: EA Sports and EA Entertainment. Both entities will directly report to Wilson, marking a strategic move aimed at enhancing creative ownership and financial responsibility.
Empowering Studios for Creative Ownership
The creation of EA Entertainment and EA Sports aims to empower the studios with greater creative freedom and financial accountability.
According to Wilson, EA Entertainment will encompass their exceptional collection of owned intellectual properties (IP), including globally renowned blockbuster franchises and collaborations involving licensed IP. This organization will pave the way for the future of interactive entertainment, offering tremendous growth opportunities.
EA Sports Takes the Field
EA Sports will assume responsibility for EA’s impressive portfolio of sports properties. Leading this division is the newly appointed President, Cam Weber.
Weber will oversee renowned franchises such as Madden, PGA Tour, NHL, and the newly renamed EA Sports FC (formerly FIFA). With a wealth of experience and expertise, Weber will drive the success and innovation of EA Sports titles.
EA Entertainment: Beyond Sports
On the other hand, EA Entertainment will focus on non-sports games within Electronic Arts. This organization will oversee esteemed studios such as Respawn, DICE, Ripple Effect, Ridgeline Games, BioWare, and the EA Originals label.
Laura Miele, the President of entertainment, technology, and central development, will lead EA Entertainment. Miele, previously EA’s Chief Operating Officer, will continue collaborating with other key executives, including Respawn’s Vince Zampella.
Leadership Changes and Transitions
As part of this shakeup, Chris Bruzzo, the Chief Experience Officer, has decided to retire from Electronic Arts. Bruzzo’s position will be filled by David Tinson. Additionally, Chris Suh, the Chief Finance Officer, has seized another opportunity at Visa, and Stuart Canfield will assume the role of CFO.
These organizational changes at EA coincide with other recent news within the company. EA made the bold decision to part ways with the FIFA license, leading to the rebranding of their soccer franchise as EA Sports FC.
Furthermore, the release of Immortals of Aveum, the latest title from EA Originals, has been postponed to August 22. Lastly, reports emerged suggesting that Respawn had been working on Titanfall 3 for ten months before shifting focus to the immensely popular Apex Legends.
As Electronic Arts continues to make waves in the gaming industry, these organizational adjustments set the stage for a new era of creative excellence and innovation.
Players can anticipate exciting developments from EA Entertainment and EA Sports, as these divisions redefine interactive entertainment and drive the future of gaming.
