EA
EA business and news from across the web.
Games Inbox: Who will win out of PS6 vs. Project Helix?Readers discuss the potential competition between the upcoming PlayStation 6 and Microsoft's Project Helix (likely the next Xbox console), with concerns raised about pricing, naming conventions, and the potential impact of simultaneous releases. Other topics include the effectiveness of game age ratings, the future of the Battlefield franchise, and the perceived arrogance of Microsoft's console strategy.
EA Sports FC risks losing PEGI 3 age rating due to new loot box rulesPEGI is implementing stricter rules for video game age ratings, with the presence of loot boxes now automatically resulting in a PEGI 16 rating. This change, effective from June, could impact the all-ages appeal of titles like EA Sports FC and NBA 2K, potentially affecting sales. Other factors like battle passes, NFTs, and online communication will also influence ratings.
Battlefield 6 is getting another free trial, set your reminders for March 17-24Battlefield 6 is offering a free trial from March 17 to March 24, allowing players to experience the second wave of Season 2 content, including the Hagental Base map and Contaminated content. Players can access the free trial by downloading the Battlefield REDSEC client, which is the free-to-play Battle Royale mode. This trial comes amidst recent layoffs at EA and DICE, with ongoing efforts to improve player engagement and game stability.
PEGI Targets Loot Boxes With Its New Overhauled Ratings SystemThe Pan European Game Information (PEGI) ratings system is undergoing a significant overhaul, introducing new classifications for loot boxes, microtransactions, and daily login rewards. Games featuring paid random items will default to a PEGI 16 rating, while those with NFTs will be rated PEGI 18. These changes, set to be enforced from June 2026, aim to better inform consumers about potentially predatory in-game mechanics.
Battlefield 6 Free Trial Gives Players a Taste of Season 2 Maps and Modes Starting Next Week - IGNEA is launching a free trial for Battlefield 6 starting March 17, offering access to the Hagental Base map and Nightfall mode from the upcoming Season 2 update. The trial will run for one week and also includes previously released content across various playlists. This initiative comes as the game attempts to regain player numbers following a delayed season and studio layoffs.
GeForce NOW Raises the Game at the Game Developers ConferenceNVIDIA's GeForce NOW cloud gaming service is introducing several updates at the Game Developers Conference, including smoother virtual reality streaming at 90 fps and improved game discovery with labels for Xbox Game Pass and Ubisoft+ subscriptions. New titles like Monster Hunter Stories 3: Twisted Reflection and CONTROL Resonant are being added to the library, with Fortnite's "Save the World" mode becoming free-to-play. Account linking with GOG is also planned.
Video Games With Loot Boxes Will Now Have a 16 Age Rating Across Europe as Part of Huge PEGI Shakeup - IGNThe Pan-European Game Information (PEGI) age-rating body is introducing new categories starting July 2026 to classify games with in-app purchases, paid random items (loot boxes), and other interactive features. Games containing paid random items will default to a PEGI 16 rating, impacting titles like EA's FC series. These changes aim to provide clearer warnings to parents about potential risks within games.- Changes to Euro game ratings mean you will need to be nearly an adult to buy EAFC in future – here’s why that really mattersThe Pan-European Game Information (PEGI) rating system is set to change its criteria starting June 2026, which will significantly impact games like EAFC. Previously rated PEGI 3, EAFC is expected to be reclassified as PEGI 16 or 18 due to its in-game paid random items, such as Ultimate Team card packs. This change aims to better inform parents about games with microtransactions and other monetization mechanics.
New Star Wars: First Assault gameplay footage surfaces as fan team tries to finish LucasArts' cancelled online shooterFan developers are working to complete Star Wars: First Assault, a cancelled online shooter from the former LucasArts. New gameplay footage has surfaced, showcasing the game's mechanics and Tatooine map. This fan project joins other community efforts, such as the rebuild of the cancelled Star Wars Battlefront 3.- Pokémon GO Fest Sweepstakes RevealedNiantic is running a #GOMemories contest for Pokémon GO, allowing players to share their favorite in-game moments on social media for a chance to win a trip for two to Pokémon GO Fest 2026 in Tokyo, Chicago, or Copenhagen. The article also briefly mentions ongoing collaborations and updates for other games like Apex Legends, Invincible VS, Rush Royale, Hoa 2, and Football Manager 26, as well as the opening of the GDC Festival of Gaming.
Battlefield 6 Studio Design Director Talks Night Maps and the Need to Work With Fans as Season 2: Nightfall Looms - IGNRipple Effect studio design director Justin Wiebe discusses Battlefield 6's upcoming Season 2: Nightfall update, focusing on the new Hagental Base map designed for close-quarters combat in a nighttime environment. The update introduces new gameplay mechanics like night vision goggles and tactical flashlight usage, and Wiebe emphasizes the studio's commitment to incorporating player feedback through initiatives like Battlefield Labs to shape future content.
Games Inbox: When will the next big Super Mario game be announced?Readers express anticipation for a new Super Mario game announcement, speculating it might coincide with or follow the Super Mario Galaxy movie. Other topics include concerns about the rising cost of consoles and amiibo, the precarious nature of game development jobs, and the potential impact of dynamic pricing and AI on the industry.
Battlefield developers laid off by EA months after Battlefield 6 'shatters records'Electronic Arts has conducted layoffs within its Battlefield division, impacting studios like Criterion, DICE, Ripple Effect, and Motive. This occurs months after Battlefield 6 achieved record-breaking launch sales. The company stated these changes are to better align teams with community priorities and continue investment in the franchise.- Shock layoffs hit Battlefield Studios despite recent success, incoming acquitisionElectronic Arts has conducted layoffs across its Battlefield studios, citing a "realignment" as the reason, despite the recent success of Battlefield 6 which has sold 20 million copies. The company stated that Battlefield remains a priority and they will continue to invest in the franchise, with no confirmed link between the layoffs and the upcoming acquisition of EA.
SHIHORI Fire & Ice RGX 2026 Guest of HonorInternational J-pop singer-songwriter SHIHORI has been announced as a Guest of Honor for Fire & Ice RGX 2026, a gaming convention taking place June 20-21. SHIHORI, known for her work on "Jojo's Bizarre Adventure: Steel Ball Run" and various anime soundtracks, will perform at the event's Saturday concert. The article also briefly mentions upcoming releases and updates for games like Monster Hunter Now, MotoGP 26, GTA Online, NAKWON: LAST PARADISE, The Coin Game, and skate.
Battlefield 6 devs talk hit-reg issues and planned fixesDICE's Principal Game Designer Florian Le Bihan detailed ongoing efforts to improve Battlefield 6's netcode, hit registration, and Time Nudge synchronization. These technical improvements are being prioritized over new content, with Season 2's launch slightly delayed to address these core gameplay issues and enhance overall player experience.
Apex Legends Goes Gundam In New Content UpdateApex Legends has launched a collaboration with the Gundam universe, introducing new gameplay elements, weapons, map updates, and cosmetics. The update features a revamped Broken Moon map with Gundam-themed additions, a new Buster Rifle weapon, and unique Gundam abilities like Epyon's Lash and Heavyarms Salvo. The collaboration also includes Gundam-inspired skins, limited edition Gunpla, and exclusive real-world Gundam model pre-orders.
Jason Zumwalt Fire & Ice RGX 2026 Guest of HonorVoice actor Jason Zumwalt, known for his role as Roman Bellic in Grand Theft Auto IV, will be a guest of honor at Fire & Ice RGX 2026. The convention will take place from June 20 to June 21. The article also briefly mentions the global release of StoneAge: Idle Adventure, a Gundam x Apex Legends collaboration, Dupli-Kate joining Invincible VS, the Metaphor: ReFantazio Orchestra World Tour, the Nintendo Switch release of Blue Prince, and the upcoming launch of Unrailed 2: Back on Track.
Apex Legends is getting a Gundam collaboration, launching March 10Respawn Entertainment announced that Apex Legends will feature a Gundam collaboration event starting March 10. The event will introduce Gundam-inspired weapons, abilities, and transform the Broken Moon map with new aesthetics and destructible elements. Limited-edition Gunpla kits will also be available for pre-order.
How The Division 2's Tougher, Limited-Time Realism Mode WorksUbisoft has introduced a limited-time Realism Mode for The Division 2, accessible through the Warlords of New York expansion until April 2. This mode enhances difficulty by removing HUD elements, rebalancing combat, and increasing player vulnerability, while also making ammo scarcer. Crossover outfits from other Tom Clancy titles are also available during the Anniversary Season.