FIFA-Developer Electronic Arts To Lay Off Nearly 670 Employees To Optimise Global Real Estate Footprint

EA CEO Andrew Wilson emphasised the company's commitment to optimising its global real estate footprint and focusing on projects with high potential for success in the evolving gaming industry.

In a recent announcement, Electronic Arts (EA), the renowned US-based developer behind gaming hits like FIFA (now rebranded FC), Battlefield, and Apex Legends, revealed plans to reduce its workforce by 5 per cent. This decision comes as part of a broader strategy that includes downsizing office space and discontinuing development on certain video game projects.

According to EA's most recent annual filing with the US Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC), the company employed 13,400 workers as of March 2023. With this reduction, approximately 670 jobs could be affected.

In a memo addressed to employees, EA CEO Andrew Wilson explained that the company is restructuring its operations to provide more immersive experiences for fans globally. The restructuring plan, outlined in a filing with the SEC, is expected to be largely complete by the end of December and will align with EA's strategic priorities and growth initiatives.

Wilson emphasised the company's commitment to optimising its global real estate footprint and focusing on projects with high potential for success in the evolving gaming industry.

Gaming Job Cuts

This move by EA aligns with a trend seen across the gaming industry, where various video game developers have been implementing significant workforce reductions. Sony, for instance, recently announced layoffs within its PlayStation division, affecting around 900 employees globally. Departing President and CEO of Sony Interactive Entertainment, Jim Ryan, communicated these changes, citing the need for strategic adjustments to drive business growth and development.

Among the impacted game developers are notable studios like Insomniac, responsible for the popular Spider-Man series, Naughty Dog, known for The Last of Us, and Guerrilla Games, the creator of Horizon. Reports suggest that Guerrilla Games may reduce its workforce by approximately 10 per cent, affecting around 40 employees. Additionally, Sony confirmed the closure of operations at PlayStation London, recognised for its SingStar series and virtual reality games.

This announcement from EA follows similar moves by other industry giants, including Microsoft and Tencent's Riot Games. Microsoft recently cut 1,900 jobs within its gaming unit following its acquisition of Activision Blizzard, while Riot Games slashed 11 per cent of its workforce.