EA is looking to shut down UK-based F1, Dirt, and Grid series developer Codemasters, according to a new rumor.
Known insider and content creator eXtas1stv took to Twitter/X to share that the publisher will not be stopping its downsizing plans with the cancellation of Black Panther and the closure of Cliffhanger Games. He has learned from sources familiar with the matter that there are around 400 more layoffs coming up at EA, and that the company will shut down the main headquarters of Codemasters.
According to what the insider has heard, the F1, Dirt, and Grid series developer’s workforce will be integrated into the EA Sports division to work on future F1 titles and a new Need For Speed that is already in development. It’s likely that some of the existing Codemasters employees will be a part of the 400 or so individuals who will not be continuing work at the company.
It was recently reported that EA had canceled Black Panther and closed down developer Cliffhanger Games in an effort to “sharpen [its] focus and put [its] creative energy behind the most significant growth opportunities.” In addition, EA also laid off some employees on both its mobile and central teams. “These decisions are hard,” said EA president Laura Miele in an email sent to staff. “They affect people we’ve worked with, learned from, and shared real moments with. We’re doing everything we can to support them — including finding opportunities within EA, where we’ve had success helping people land in new roles.”
It’s possible that licensed games don’t end up being as profitable for game companies as non-licensed projects, owing to the cost incurred by licensing fee. EA may be looking to cut down on the development of such titles in future. If this is indeed the case, it may put the company’s other Marvel-licensed game, Iron Man, in jeopardy.
