Need for Speed Fans Face Extended Wait for New Game as Criterion Transitions to Battlefield

The anticipation for a new Need for Speed title has been temporarily halted as Criterion Games, the long-time developer behind the popular racing franchise, has fully shifted focus to the upcoming Battlefield installment.

Vince Zampella, general manager of Battlefield, confirmed to Eurogamer that "The Need for Speed team at Criterion are joining their colleagues working on Battlefield."

This move marks the culmination of a gradual transition that began in September 2023, when a significant portion of Criterion's team was assigned to support the development of Battlefield. A small contingent remained dedicated to providing ongoing support for the series' latest entry, Need for Speed Unbound.

"It was important for us to take the last year to listen to our Need for Speed community and use their feedback to create content for Unbound," Zampella explained.

Since its launch in December 2022, Unbound has received a series of updates, including the introduction of a popular "Cops vs Racers" mode inspired by Need for Speed: Hot Pursuit. However, the remaining team announced the end of live-service support for Unbound, acknowledging that "we won't be updating the game or making any more changes, but rest assured your notes and comments are being captured and will help inform the future."

This shift signals a significant delay in the release of a new Need for Speed installment. Despite this, Zampella emphasized EA's commitment to the franchise. "With an increased understanding of what our players want in a Need for Speed experience, we plan to bring the franchise back in new and interesting ways."

Need for Speed: Unbound has elicited mixed reactions within the gaming community. Reviews have ranged from critical acclaim to a more nuanced assessment of its arcade-style mechanics and cartoonish visuals.

The internal landscape at EA has witnessed additional changes. Following the disappointing performance of Dragon Age: The Veilguard, BioWare has undergone a restructuring that has seen a reduction in staff and a renewed focus on Mass Effect.

Despite the absence of a new Need for Speed title on the immediate horizon, EA has offered a glimpse into Criterion's work on Battlefield with a brief pre-alpha gameplay showcase during the reveal of EA's Battlefield Labs playtesting initiative.