EA's Executive Vice President, Vince Zampella, 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. However, Zampella clarified that there's a good reason for the silence: Criterion Games, the studio behind Need for Speed, is currently focused on developing the next installment of the Battlefield series.
According to Zampella, EA's primary focus at the moment is the upcoming Battlefield game, which is being developed with significant input from player feedback. This project is a massive undertaking, involving four different studios, and EA is fully committed to its success. Zampella has emphasized that the team is keen on avoiding the pitfalls experienced with Battlefield 2042, which faced heavy criticism at launch due to controversial gameplay choices. This commitment to listening to players extends to the ongoing support for NFS Unbound as well.
It appears that EA will only turn its attention back to Need for Speed after the release and initial support phase of the new Battlefield game. This delay might actually benefit the NFS franchise. Recent titles have left fans feeling underwhelmed, and taking a break could allow EA to successfully reboot the series by truly listening to player feedback. Giving fans time to move past previous disappointments and build nostalgia could be a strategic move.
So, if you're a Need for Speed enthusiast, don't hold your breath for any new announcements in the near future. EA is fully focused on ensuring the success of the next Battlefield, and Need for Speed will have to wait its turn.
