Breaking News: EA’s Black Panther Game Cancelled, Studio Shutdown Leads to Significant Layoffs

EA has made headlines recently by canceling its much-anticipated Black Panther video game and shutting down the studio behind it, Cliffhanger Games. This decision has led to job losses, though EA hasn’t specified how many employees are affected.

Laura Miele, president of EA Entertainment, informed staff via email about the cancellation. She emphasized that this move, along with the cancellation of other projects like an unannounced Titanfall game, aims to refine the company’s focus and direct energy toward more promising opportunities.

While specific numbers on layoffs were not disclosed, sources suggest that fewer people will be impacted this time compared to the 300 layoffs announced earlier at Respawn and other teams. Miele expressed regret over the difficult decisions, acknowledging the personal connections formed within the company. She assured employees of support in finding new roles within EA.

Originally announced in 2023, the Black Panther game was to be developed by Cliffhanger Games in partnership with Marvel. Details were scarce, but it was expected to be an exciting open-world experience set in a vast and dynamic Wakanda. Unfortunately, no progress has been showcased since its reveal, and the project’s future remains uncertain.

This cancellation aligns with EA CEO Andrew Wilson’s earlier statements regarding a shift away from “future licensed IP.” However, Miele reassured fans that EA is committed to other projects like Motive’s Iron Man game and a new Star Wars title from Respawn. The company seems to be prioritizing its own franchises, including Battlefield, The Sims, Skate, and Apex Legends, along with a forthcoming Mass Effect game from BioWare.

In addition, EA’s recent decision to end its partnership with the World Rally Championship and pause development of future rally games has also led to further layoffs at Codemasters, which adds to the impact on employment within the gaming sector.

Interestingly, there’s still another Black Panther game in development, titled Marvel 1943: Rise of Hydra, led by Skydance Games and penned by renowned writer Amy Hennig. This project has also faced delays, pushing its release to next year.

As video game companies navigate changing trends and development priorities, shifts like these highlight the delicate balance between creative endeavors and business realities. With gamers eagerly anticipating the next big titles, time will tell how these decisions shape the future of franchises beloved by many.



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