Game developers announce indefinite delay on the upcoming release of Need for Speed.
In a surprising turn of events, Electronic Arts (EA) has reportedly halted work on the Need for Speed (NFS) series and is focusing its efforts on other projects, such as the highly anticipated Battlefield 6 [1][4][5]. This decision comes as a blow to long-time fans of the racing franchise, with EA ending funding for related projects, including the popular EA-backed car culture website, Speedhunters [1][4][5].
The reasons behind this shift appear to be multifaceted. One of the key factors is EA's increased focus on the development of Battlefield 6, with EA's studio, Criterion, now working on the next instalment of the Battlefield series alongside DICE and Ripple Effect [1].
Furthermore, there are indications that EA might have decided to indefinitely shelve the entire Need for Speed franchise. While there was initial hope that Criterion would return to NFS with new content for the recent release, Need for Speed Unbound, recent developments suggest that the series might be on an indefinite hiatus [1][4][5].
In addition to the halt in new NFS development, EA is also shutting down online services for older NFS titles, such as Need for Speed Rivals, by October 2025 [2]. This move indicates a winding down of support for the franchise’s online components.
Matthew Avery, a long-time associate with the racing franchise, revealed this information. However, EA has not yet provided an official confirmation regarding the halt of NFS development [1][4][5].
This decision by EA, if confirmed, marks a significant change in the gaming landscape and leaves fans of the Need for Speed series in a state of uncertainty. The future of the series remains to be seen, but for now, it appears that EA is investing its resources in other profitable projects, including Battlefield 6.
[1] - Matthew Avery, Speedhunters blog post, dated April 8, 2025. [2] - EA support article, "Need for Speed Rivals online services to be discontinued". [3] - Electronic Arts official website. [4] - GameSpot article, "EA halts development of Need for Speed series, shifts focus to Battlefield 6". [5] - IGN article, "EA reportedly halts development of Need for Speed series, shifts focus to Battlefield 6".
The focus of Electronic Arts (EA) is now centrally on Battlefield 6, as they have reportedly halted work on the Need for Speed (NFS) series and redirected resources. This decision implies a possible indefinite hiatus for the Need for Speed franchise.
