Last week, EA announced a significant workforce reduction of 670 employees, representing 5% of the company's total staff. The decision was attributed to the 'accelerating industry transformation' as stated by the company. Notably, EA revealed its intention to shift away from developing future licensed intellectual properties (IP).
This strategic shift raises questions about the fate of ongoing projects, including anticipated Black Panther and Iron Man games under development for Marvel. While the third installment of the Jedi: Fallen Order series and a Star Wars strategy game are confirmed to continue, Respawn's Mandalorian first-person shooter has been scrapped before its full unveiling.
The move away from licensed games aligns with the challenges associated with such projects, which often entail high costs and risks. EA has faced setbacks with titles like Battlefront, while other publishers' Marvel games like Marvel's Avengers and Guardians of the Galaxy have underperformed in recent years. Even successful titles like Spider-Man 2 from Sony's Insomniac have not been immune to layoffs.
Amidst these developments, fans have been vocal about their desire for Titanfall 3, an original IP from Respawn Entertainment. Reports indicate that Titanfall 3 was previously in development but was ultimately canceled, with elements of the game incorporated into the popular Apex Legends.
With Respawn no longer working on two major Star Wars projects and EA's shift away from licensed games, speculation has arisen about the potential revival of Titanfall 3. While Apex Legends continues to enjoy popularity, the game is four years old, prompting discussions about the need for new content.
The prospect of a new Titanfall game raises considerations about the evolving gaming landscape, particularly in terms of live service models and monetization strategies. Despite potential challenges, the demand for Titanfall 3 remains strong among fans, underscoring the opportunity for Respawn and EA to explore new avenues for the franchise.
As the industry continues to evolve, the future of Titanfall 3 remains uncertain. However, the enthusiasm and support from the community suggest that a new installment would be well-received, offering a fresh take on the beloved franchise.
