EA Scraps Respawn's Star Wars Project and Initiates Staff Layoffs

Electronic Arts, one of the gaming industry’s titans, has delivered a mix of disappointing news to Star Wars enthusiasts and its own employees alike. The company announced the cancellation of a highly anticipated Star Wars game that had been in the works at Respawn Entertainment, the talented studio behind successes such as Titanfall and Apex Legends. The cutbacks extend beyond the game's shelving, as the corporation is set to downsize its workforce, affecting a substantial number of employees and sparking uncertainty within the gaming community.

This unsettling development stems from EA’s strategic re-evaluation of its business approach amid the constantly evolving gaming landscape. The decision to discontinue the Respawn-developed Star Wars shooter, still in its infancy, is a strategic pivot that allows the company to channel resources toward self-owned intellectual properties. Despite the studio's successful track record with prior Star Wars branded games, EA's reshuffle of priorities has resulted in this unexpected project halt.

The move has far-reaching implications, with a 5% reduction in the company's robust workforce, translating to nearly 670 professionals facing job insecurity. EA CEO Andrew Wilson acknowledged the difficult situation and expressed sympathy for those affected, emphasizing the commitment to minimize the impact on their employees. The changes are especially pronounced among support staff, who will bear the brunt of the corporate restructuring.

In a wider context, EA is also sunsetting several mobile titles, signaling a shift in the company’s mobile gaming strategy. This cull includes games like Tap Sports Baseball and the Kim Kardashian Hollywood mobile game. The redirection reflects EA’s desire to consolidate its efforts and redefine its presence within the mobile gaming sphere.

The cancellation of the new Star Wars FPS, alongside the streamlining of EA's mobile gaming portfolio, marks a significant turning point in the company's trajectory. While EA reassures stakeholders that their focus remains on creating compelling gaming experiences, the layoff announcement carries a human cost that resonates throughout the gaming industry. These decisions highlight the volatile nature of the gaming market and the pressures faced by even the most established players in the field. As EA forges ahead with its realigned corporate vision, the gaming world watches with bated breath to see what the future holds for both the affected employees and the company's creative endeavors.