EA's Executive Vice President Vince Zampella recently provided an update on the current state of the Need for Speed (NFS) 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, Zampella clarified that there's a good reason for the silence: Criterion Games, the developer behind NFS, is currently focused on crafting the next installment of the Battlefield series.
According to Zampella, EA's top priority at the moment is the development of the new Battlefield game. This ambitious project involves the collaboration of four different studios, with EA dedicating substantial resources to ensure its success. The company is heavily emphasizing player feedback, aiming to avoid the pitfalls that marred the launch of Battlefield 2042, which faced significant backlash due to controversial gameplay choices.
This player-centric approach isn't limited to Battlefield; it also extends to new content for NFS Unbound. Zampella emphasized that EA is committed to listening to its community to enhance the gaming experience across its titles.
It appears that fans of Need for Speed might have to wait a bit longer for new announcements. EA is likely to shift its focus back to NFS only after the release and initial support phase of the upcoming Battlefield game. This delay might not be a bad thing for NFS enthusiasts. Recent titles in the series have left some fans wanting more, and taking the time to reboot the franchise with a fresh perspective and strong player input could be a smart strategy. Allowing time for nostalgia to build and past disappointments to fade could set the stage for a successful revival.
So, while it's exciting to think about what's next for Need for Speed, don't hold your breath for any immediate announcements. EA is fully committed to delivering an exceptional Battlefield experience first.