After three installments, Electronic Arts has announced the end of the Project Cars series. Launched by Slightly Mad Studios in 2015, and originally published by Bandai Namco Entertainment, the franchise went to EA following its acquisition of the studio’s parent company Codemasters. In a statement to GamesIndustry.biz, the publisher said that it wants to shift its focus towards those games in its portfolio that have the “strongest opportunity to create experiences that fans will love.”
Project Cars was recently delisted
In August, Slightly Mad Studios announced that Project Cars 1 and 2 were both being delisted within a few months “due to expiring car and track licenses,” prompting backlash from fans. EA said in its statement to GamesIndustry.biz that dropping the franchise was a tough decision to make but one that it felt was necessary.
We are focusing on our strengths in our racing portfolio, particularly licensed IP and open-world experiences, and expanding our franchises to be more socially-led with long-term live services that will engage global communities. Games are at the heart of sports and racing entertainment, and with shifting fan expectations, we recognise the need to evolve our games beyond pure play, providing experiences for fans to also watch, create and connect with their friends.
EA is “working with” employees impacted by its decision.
