Regardless if it’s good or bad, EA is well-known for the vast array of gaming series they manage. These intellectual properties are often characterized by their frequent yearly updates. The fast-paced nature of this game development method frequently results in a limited lifespan for certain EA games, with many EA titles being deactivated over time.
The speed at which Electronic Arts (EA) games are being shut down isn’t letting up; in fact, four more EA titles are scheduled to be closed in October. While many of these closures were anticipated given the annual nature of some sports franchises published by EA, the upcoming shutdown of a popular racing game comes as a surprise and is particularly disappointing for racing game enthusiasts.
Need For Speed Stands Out Among EA’s October Shutdowns
In contrast to other game shutdowns across the industry, announcements about Electronic Arts (EA) games typically don’t have as significant an impact. This is because EA is renowned for publishing iconic sports game franchises like Madden NFL, College Football, EA FC, NHL, UFC, and PGA Tour. Many of these titles release new versions annually with updated teams and athletes. Given the number of games tied to these intellectual properties that EA publishes over the years, it makes sense that they would not continue to maintain the online services for every annual game. As a result, three sports titles are expected to be discontinued in October.
- NHL 21 on October 6
- Madden NFL 22 on October 20
- FIFA 23 on October 30
Rivals on October 7 has caused a bit more surprise among fans. The Need for Speed series doesn’t follow the yearly release schedule like EA’s sports franchises, which makes each game stand out distinctively, such as Rivals.
Ever since the release of “Rivals,” the Need for Speed franchise has seen fewer mainline titles hit the market, with only Heat from 2019 and Unbound in 2022 joining the mix. This means there’s not as much variety to sink my teeth into, which is a bit of a bummer.
Now, I’m fully aware that Need for Speed: Rivals came out way back in 2013, so it’s showing its age, but man, the nostalgia factor is still strong with this one. There’s a dedicated community out there who have stuck by this game through thick and thin, and they’re about to feel the sting of an upcoming shutdown.
Not All is Lost For October’s Shutdown EA Games
In October, the shutdowns for EA’s NHL, Madden, Fifa, and Need for Speed series will prevent players from using any online features these games provide. Although offline single-player modes will still be accessible, aspects such as trophies/achievements, multiplayer experiences, and notably the popular online mode Rivals, known for its captivating and immersive nature, will no longer be available.
Critics have frequently voiced concerns about the swift release schedule of Electronic Arts (EA) games, with more than 60 EA games being closed down in just the last two years alone. Although it’s common knowledge that older sports games may eventually cease operation, it’s still tough when games with strong and unique fan communities are affected. The ongoing multiplayer services for Need for Speed: Rivals couldn’t run forever, but it’s difficult to view its upcoming shutdown in October as anything other than a disappointing turn of events for racing enthusiasts.
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2025-07-29 22:34