Electronic Arts (EA) has confirmed layoffs across several of its Battlefield development teams, including Criterion Games, DICE, Ripple Effect Studios, and Motive Studio. The company has not disclosed the exact number of employees affected, but emphasized that all four studios will continue operating.
The restructuring is part of EA’s efforts to better organize its teams around the long-term development and support of the Battlefield franchise. In an official statement, the publisher said, “We’ve made select changes within our Battlefield organisation to better align our teams around what matters most to our community. Battlefield remains one of our biggest priorities, and we’re continuing to invest in the franchise, guided by player feedback and insights from Battlefield Labs.”
Battlefield 6 Success and Subsequent Challenges
The layoffs follow the release of Battlefield 6, which launched in 2025 as the best-selling game in the United States and sold more than seven million copies within its first three days. The launch marked the largest opening in the franchise’s history.
Despite the commercial success, the game has faced criticism from players and industry observers regarding updates, monetisation, and the suspected use of generative AI in cosmetic items. These challenges may have contributed to the restructuring, as EA seeks to focus its teams on the areas that directly impact player experience and community feedback.
Connection to EA’s Pending Acquisition
The workforce changes come amid preparations for a proposed $55 billion acquisition of EA by an investor group that includes the Public Investment Fund, Silver Lake, and Affinity Partners. The deal is expected to close later in 2026. Analysts suggest that the realignment could be linked to ensuring the Battlefield franchise is positioned for long-term stability ahead of the acquisition.
EA has reiterated that the franchise remains a major priority and that the changes are intended to strengthen its development strategy rather than reduce overall investment.
Source: PocketGamer
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Which studios were affected by EA’s layoffs?
The layoffs impacted Criterion Games, DICE, Ripple Effect Studios, and Motive Studio, all of which remain operational.
How many employees were laid off?
EA has not disclosed the number of employees affected by the restructuring.
Why did EA make these layoffs?
The company said the changes are part of an internal realignment to better support the long-term development and maintenance of the Battlefield franchise.
Did Battlefield 6 perform well commercially?
Yes. Battlefield 6 became the best-selling game in the United States in 2025 and sold over seven million copies within its first three days.
What criticisms has Battlefield 6 faced?
The game has received criticism for updates, monetisation practices, and the suspected use of generative AI in cosmetic content.
Is EA being acquired?
EA is preparing for a proposed $55 billion acquisition by a group including the Public Investment Fund, Silver Lake, and Affinity Partners, expected to finalize in 2026.
