Joystiq http://www.joystiq.com Joystiq http://www.blogsmithmedia.com/http://www.joystiq.com/media/feedlogo.gif Joystiq http://www.joystiq.com en-us Copyright 2013 Weblogs, Inc. The contents of this feed are available for non-commercial use only. Blogsmith http://www.blogsmith.com/<![CDATA[EA lays off 900 employees in 'organizational restructuring']]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/08/ea-lays-off-900-employees-in-organizational-restructuring/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/08/ea-lays-off-900-employees-in-organizational-restructuring/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/08/ea-lays-off-900-employees-in-organizational-restructuring/#commentsEA lays off approximately 900 employees during organizational restructuring During a conference call discussing its year-end financials yesterday, Electronic Arts revealed that it laid off approximately 900 employees worldwide as part of an "organizational restructuring" initiative.

Emphasizing that its business was in a period of transition due to the coming launch of next-generation consoles, EA CFO Blake Jorgensen announced company-wide plans to "reduce [its] overall headcount by approximately 10 percent," in an attempt to reduce costs. EA employed an estimated 9,000 workers across its studios, according to its last official employee count in March of 2012.

The latest round of layoffs cost EA $16 million in severance payments.

Over the last year, EA announced layoffs in its Los Angeles and Montreal offices, was vague about closures at EA Mobile and shuttered its PopCap Dublin studio. Last month, EA's Origin was restructured, and is now part of the Frank Gibeau-headed EA Labels group.

Electronic Arts has developed a pattern to its layoff practices over the last few years. In May of last year, restructuring-related layoffs cut EA's workforce by an estimated 5 to 10 percent, while around 800 EA employees lost their jobs between 2010 and 2011.

JoystiqEA lays off 900 employees in 'organizational restructuring' originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 08 May 2013 14:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>eaelectronic-artslayoffsWed, 08 May 2013 14:45:00 EST<![CDATA[EA admits to more layoffs, still won't give specifics [Update]]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/04/25/ea-layoffs-april-25/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/04/25/ea-layoffs-april-25/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/04/25/ea-layoffs-april-25/#comments Update: According to an internal memo sent to EA staff and obtained by Kotaku, the publisher's latest restructuring plan includes moving EA's Origin business under the organization of Frank Gibeau's Labels group and placed EA Sports head Andrew Wilson in charge of the Origin Network.

The memo says "the workforce reductions which we communicated in the last two weeks represent the majority of our planned personnel actions."

Original Story: Following more rumored layoffs and the reported closure of EA Partners, Electronic Arts has posted the following statement regarding the constant drip of employees being let go across divisions.

"In recent weeks, EA has aligned all elements of its organizational structure behind priorities in new technologies and mobile. This has led to some difficult decisions to reduce the workforce in some locations. We are extremely grateful for the contributions made by each of our employees - those that are leaving EA will be missed by their colleagues and friends," reads a company statement posted this afternoon.

"These are hard but essential changes as we focus on delivering great games and showing players around the world why to spend their time with us."

The extent of the EA layoffs and restructuring should come into full view when the company announces its fiscal year results on May 7.

JoystiqEA admits to more layoffs, still won't give specifics [Update] originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 25 Apr 2013 20:20:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>eaea-partnersElectronic-ArtslayoffsThu, 25 Apr 2013 20:20:00 EST<![CDATA[Report: EA layoffs at EA Mobile India, Playfish]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/04/17/report-ea-layoffs-at-ea-mobile-india-playfish/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/04/17/report-ea-layoffs-at-ea-mobile-india-playfish/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/04/17/report-ea-layoffs-at-ea-mobile-india-playfish/#comments EA retiring Playfish Facebook gamesThe Electronic Arts layoff waves continue, with cuts reported at EA Hyderabad (India) and Playfish.

MCV India reports 50 employees were let go at the India mobile studio. As has been standard ops for EA during these layoff rounds, the company acknowledged there were cuts, but wouldn't discuss specifics.

Develop reports there have also been layoffs at social games developer Playfish, which isn't surprising since Playfish appears to have no games in production or to support following Monday's sunset announcements. EA bought Playfish for $300 million in 2009 (entering a "strategic" five year deal with Facebook in 2010). Again, there is no official count of how many employees have been let go.

Based on rough estimates following last week's layoffs, including the latest information and sources speaking under condition of anonymity, it appears EA has let go of over 300 employees (full-time and contract) this past week.

If you're a member of an affected team at EA, please don't hesitate to reach out.

JoystiqReport: EA layoffs at EA Mobile India, Playfish originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 17 Apr 2013 07:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>eaEA-Hyderabadea-indiaelectronic-artsindialayoffsmobilepcplayfishWed, 17 Apr 2013 07:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Layoffs hit EA, company 'not disclosing specific teams impacted']]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/04/11/ea-layoffs/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/04/11/ea-layoffs/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/04/11/ea-layoffs/#comments Following up with EA about the closure of EA Mobile Montreal, we've received the following statement from the company.

"EA is sharpening its focus to provide games for new platforms and mobile. In some cases, this involves reducing team sizes as we evolve into a more efficient organization," the company told Joystiq. "These are difficult decisions to let go of good people who have made important contributions to EA, and whenever possible we retrain or relocate employees to new roles. Streamlining our operations will help ensure EA is bringing the best next-generation games to players around the world."

We continue to work on finding out the extent of today's impact, but we believe we have a better grip on today's layoffs at EA Mobile Montreal. Our understanding is that 60 to 70 permanent employees were let go, along with over 100 people working under EA's contract system. These are mostly quality assurance testers. We're told by one source, "If you walk through the office all you see is a bunch of already cleared out desks, and people cleaning out their desks."

These layoffs and closures were expected in the wake of former CEO John Riccitiello's resignation last month. In his departure letter to the company, Riccitiello wrote, "My decision to leave EA is really all about my accountability for the shortcomings in our financial results this year. It currently looks like we will come in at the low end of, or slightly below, the financial guidance we issued to the Street, and we have fallen short of the internal operating plan we set one year ago. And for that, I am 100 percent accountable."

If you're a member of an affected team, please don't hesitate to reach out. We'll continue to work on this story and update as new information comes in.

Update: Brazilian site UOL Jogos reports EA Mobile Brazil will shut down by week's end. A separate source informs us 30-40 people worked at the studio, providing localization and support.

UOL Jogos also has unconfirmed reports that BioWare Social and a studio in London were also closed.

Update #2: More jobs are reportedly being cut at EA's customer service center in Galway, Ireland. The European customer service expansion into Ireland was announced in September 2012, and was expected to create 300 jobs.

JoystiqLayoffs hit EA, company 'not disclosing specific teams impacted' originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 11 Apr 2013 13:07:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>eaea-mobile-montrealEA-MontrealElectronic-ArtslayoffsThu, 11 Apr 2013 13:07:00 EST<![CDATA[Report: BioWare San Francisco closes, up to 30 staffers laid off]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/03/04/report-bioware-san-francisco-closes-up-to-30-staffers-laid-off/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/03/04/report-bioware-san-francisco-closes-up-to-30-staffers-laid-off/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/03/04/report-bioware-san-francisco-closes-up-to-30-staffers-laid-off/#comments Report BioWare San Francisco formerly EA2D shut down, 25 to 30 laid offAccording to a report on GamesRadar, BioWare San Francisco - the studio formerly known as EA2D and responsible for titles like Dragon Age Legends and Mirror's Edge 2D - has been closed by EA, leaving between 25 to 30 employees jobless. Citing a source inside the studio, the report suggests EA felt it was "too expensive" to make mobile games in Redwood Shores, CA.

Joystiq has followed up with EA to check the veracity of this claim. Dragon Age Legends' servers were shut off last year, but the developers at BioWare San Francisco were kind enough to make an offline version available for fans to continue to play.

JoystiqReport: BioWare San Francisco closes, up to 30 staffers laid off originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 04 Mar 2013 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bioware-san-franciscoclosingdragon-age-legendseaea2djobslayoffsmobilepcredwood-shoressan-franciscoshutdownMon, 04 Mar 2013 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[EA announces layoffs in LA, Montreal]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/02/21/ea-announces-layoffs-in-la-montreal/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/02/21/ea-announces-layoffs-in-la-montreal/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/02/21/ea-announces-layoffs-in-la-montreal/#comments EA has announced an unknown number of layoffs affecting its employees in Los Angeles, Montreal and "smaller locations" in an update from EA Labels president Frank Gibeau.

"Thousands of our existing employees have been retrained and redeployed to work on the new platforms and initiatives. But when it is not possible to redeploy a team, we soften the tough decisions with assistance," Gibeau said. "This week we let some people go in Los Angeles, Montreal as well as in some smaller locations. These are good people and we have offered outplacement services and severance packages to ease their transition to a new job."

Which EA developers have been affected, and to what extent, is currently unknown. We've reached out to EA for clarification on the situation and will update when more information is available.

JoystiqEA announces layoffs in LA, Montreal originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 21 Feb 2013 15:12:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>EAea-laea-montrealEALAlayoffsThu, 21 Feb 2013 15:12:00 EST<![CDATA[PopCap Dublin shuts down]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/09/24/popcap-dublin-shuts-down/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/09/24/popcap-dublin-shuts-down/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/09/24/popcap-dublin-shuts-down/#comments PopCap Dublin shuts down, 96 reportedly laid offPopCap closed its Dublin office this morning, former PopCap Mobile Associate Producer JP Vaughan confirmed the closure, later tweeting that the studio had "30 days to prepare" for the news. Last month, a round of layoffs at PopCap's Seattle offices saw 50 employees lose their jobs, with reports of jobs at the Irish office being under threat.

A source with knowledge of the situation tells Joystiq the closure occurred following a meeting which took place at 11AM UK time. Our source confirms the company's official line that 96 people have been affected in total by the layoffs, which began last month, with the closure of the Irish studio today merely completing the consultation period. The consultation period is a concept under Irish law where if there is a particular amount of layoffs, employees must receive 30 days notice.

"Europe remains a critical market for PopCap and we will continue to grow our presence through centralized services operated from our North American offices and through the extensive European EA network," PopCap informed Joystiq in a prepared statement.

The news follows the creation of 300 jobs at EA's Customer Service Center in Galway, Ireland. PopCap is an EA subsidiary. No sense in EA doubling up on tax havens.

JoystiqPopCap Dublin shuts down originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 24 Sep 2012 08:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>EAeuropeirelandlayoffsmobilepopcapMon, 24 Sep 2012 08:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Report: PopCap hit with international layoffs [Update]]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/08/21/report-popcap-hit-with-international-layoffs/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/08/21/report-popcap-hit-with-international-layoffs/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/08/21/report-popcap-hit-with-international-layoffs/#comments Report PopCap hit with international layoffsEA laid off employees of its PopCap studios in Dublin, Shanghai and Seattle, Duke Nukem creator George Broussard tweeted today, following an earlier message saying layoffs were "imminent" at PopCap. PopCap Dublin was shut down, Shanghai was "shrunk" and Seattle let go 50 people, according to Broussard.

PopCap may have been quietly firing people for months, VG24/7 reported.

EA acquired PopCap in August 2011 for $750 million, in the hopes it would "accelerate our drive towards a $1 billion digital business," EA CEO John Riccitiello said. Yesterday PopCap announced Plants vs. Zombies 2, which is expected to launch in late spring 2013.

We have reached out to EA and PopCap for more information.

Update 2: PopCap co-founder John Vechey has released a statement on today's layoffs, stating 50 people were let go today in North America.

"We've been able to invest in creative new games like Peggle and Plants vs. Zombies because we had a high profit business. That business is challenged, and if we don't adapt, we won't be able to invest in new IP," Vechey wrote. "That sounds harsh - but if we don't stay in business, no more plants, zombies, jewels, frogs or worms."

Update: Former PopCap employees are taking to Twitter, confirming a round of layoffs in Seattle that affects game directors and producers alike.

JoystiqReport: PopCap hit with international layoffs [Update] originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 21 Aug 2012 14:05:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>androidEAElectronic-ArtsiosipadiphonelayoffsmacmicrosoftmobilepcplaystationPopCappopcap-gamesps3xboxTue, 21 Aug 2012 14:05:00 EST<![CDATA[EA planning upcoming layoffs, 'completed by September 30, 2012']]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/07/ea-planning-upcoming-layoffs-completed-by-september-30-2012/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/07/ea-planning-upcoming-layoffs-completed-by-september-30-2012/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/07/ea-planning-upcoming-layoffs-completed-by-september-30-2012/#comments EA today confirmed plans to enact a "restructuring" among its employees, resulting in an unnamed number of layoffs companywide. The restructuring is part of EA CEO John Riccitiello's move toward digital - an initiative that aims to alter the composition of EA's staff from one in eight engineers to one in two.

The California-based publisher will incur a variety of expenses related to its upcoming plans, to the tune of "approximately $40 million in total costs." Ouch! Making things more painful is the fact that $23 million of that total is planned for "severance and other employee-related costs" - a number that'll be (conveniently) reflected in next year's financials.

As recently as a few weeks ago, EA outright denied reports of upcoming layoffs. Those reports put the number at 5 to 10 percent of EA's workforce, or approximately 500 to 1,000 employees. EA corporate rep Jeff Brown told Joystiq that the restructuring "impacts a relatively small number of EA's 9,000 employees." He added, "Most importantly, EA is hiring and we expect to finish the year with more employees, not fewer."

Update: During EA's financial call this afternoon, the company got more specific on restructuring numbers. Regardless of layoffs, EA expects to grow its current headcount of approximately 9,200 employees to 9,700 by the end of fiscal 2013 (ending March 31, 2013).

JoystiqEA planning upcoming layoffs, 'completed by September 30, 2012' originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 07 May 2012 16:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>eaelectronic-artsjeff-brownlayoffssecsecurities-and-exchange-commissionMon, 07 May 2012 16:45:00 EST<![CDATA[EA denies report of incoming mass layoffs]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/04/16/ea-denies-report-of-incoming-mass-layoffs/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/04/16/ea-denies-report-of-incoming-mass-layoffs/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/04/16/ea-denies-report-of-incoming-mass-layoffs/#comments ImageEA has denied a report that 500-1,000 layoffs, representing 5-10 percent of the workforce, are about to hit the company.

The publisher told MCV there are no layoffs "as such." The company rep said, "At any given time there are new people coming in and others leaving. EA is growing and hiring and building teams to support the growing demand for digital games and services."

The layoff rumor comes from StartupGrind, which claims that the ax was originally expected to drop last Monday. The site says it has "confirmed they're coming very soon."

Although "seasonal roll-offs" are nothing new for the publisher, it's been a while since mass layoffs hit the company.

Update: EA corporate communications sent the following statement to Joystiq: "EA is growing and looking to hire hundreds of people for our digital, console, mobile and social games. Like all game companies, we make occasional adjustments to resize teams as projects are completed and new priorities are established. Overall, we expect that headcount will be up at the end of this year."

JoystiqEA denies report of incoming mass layoffs originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 16 Apr 2012 10:35:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>eaelectronic-artslayoffsMon, 16 Apr 2012 10:35:00 EST<![CDATA[EA in Vancouver sees 'small number' of layoffs]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/02/03/ea-in-vancouver-sees-small-number-of-layoffs/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/02/03/ea-in-vancouver-sees-small-number-of-layoffs/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/02/03/ea-in-vancouver-sees-small-number-of-layoffs/#comments EA's studio in Vancouver, home to EA Canada and Black Box, was hit with layoffs while the studio goes through a "transformation." Apparently it's a lot of transforming, since variants of "transform" show up a lot in the following statement about the transformational studio.

"EA in Vancouver is transforming its studio to align with EA's transformation to high-growth digital formats, including online, social gaming and free-to-play," an EA spokesperson told IndustryGamers. "The Need for Speed World team in Burnaby is leading the digital transformation with 11 million registered players. As the BC studio makes this transformation, a small number of employees are being impacted while most others are being retrained, redeployed and rolling-on to new projects."

EA recently reported a net loss of $205 million in the third quarter, but is seeing significant positive transformation in increased digital product sales.

JoystiqEA in Vancouver sees 'small number' of layoffs originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 03 Feb 2012 20:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>black-boxEAEA-CanadaElectronic-ArtsElectronic-Arts-Vancouverlayoffsneed-for-speed-worldFri, 03 Feb 2012 20:30:00 EST<![CDATA[EA Bright Light in process of closure]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/10/14/ea-bright-light-in-process-of-closure/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/10/14/ea-bright-light-in-process-of-closure/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/10/14/ea-bright-light-in-process-of-closure/#comments The body count for established British studios keeps rising, with EA Bright Light the latest in the crosshairs. EA confirmed to GamesIndustry.biz that a "formal consultation process" has begun at the studio. That's a fancy term for the time required under UK law (dependent on number of employees) before the publisher can shut down the studio.

Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows Part 2 was the latest project from the studio, a title we couldn't be bothered to review after the previous installment. Apparently we didn't miss anything.

"Employees that are impacted will be considered for positions at other EA Studios including those in the UK," EA said in a statement. "The UK is a vital centre of game development for EA and we intend to maintain a strong presence here."

You know, with the one studio EA officially has left on the island.

JoystiqEA Bright Light in process of closure originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 14 Oct 2011 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bright-lightBritainEAEA-Bright-LightElectronic-ArtsEnglandharry-potter-and-the-deathly-hallows-part-2layoffsmicrosoftpcplaystationps3UKxboxFri, 14 Oct 2011 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA[EA confirms closure of Visceral Melbourne, reaffirms support for Melbourne-based mobile studios]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/09/20/ea-confirms-closure-of-visceral-melbourne-reaffirms-support-for/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/09/20/ea-confirms-closure-of-visceral-melbourne-reaffirms-support-for/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/09/20/ea-confirms-closure-of-visceral-melbourne-reaffirms-support-for/#commentsFollowing reports last Friday that EA shuttered its Visceral Melbourne studio, the International Game Developer's Association Melbourne tweeted on Sunday, "Confirmation of EA closing Visceral has been received :( our best wishes to the 21 devs now out of a job #EAVisceral." Electronic Arts has finally weighed in on the matter, telling MCV, "With no active project in development at that location, we've decided to close the Visceral Melbourne office. They are talented individuals and may find other roles elsewhere in EA, if they choose."

The EA rep added, "EA continues to maintain its mobile studios in Melbourne which are both thriving and hiring." Those studios include the recently acquired Firemint, makers of Flight Control and Real Racing, and Iron Monkey Studios, the team behind the excellent Dead Space for iOS and Xperia Play.

Of course, this follows just weeks after LA Noire developers Team Bondi entered administration, a month after THQ shuttered two Australian studios, and less than a year after Krome severely downsized. We'll pour a Foster's out for you, Australian game devs.

JoystiqEA confirms closure of Visceral Melbourne, reaffirms support for Melbourne-based mobile studios originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 20 Sep 2011 12:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>businessdead-space-2eaelectronic-artslayoffsvisceral-gamesvisceral-melbourneTue, 20 Sep 2011 12:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Report: EA closing Visceral Melbourne on Monday]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/09/16/report-ea-closing-visceral-melbourne-on-monday/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/09/16/report-ea-closing-visceral-melbourne-on-monday/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/09/16/report-ea-closing-visceral-melbourne-on-monday/#comments Electronic Arts' Visceral Studios in Melbourne will reportedly shut down this Monday. Kotaku reports that it has a source claiming as much, and the IGDA chapter in Melbourne is "happy to help all affected" in any way it can. The Age's Screen Play Blog is hearing the same rumors.

Kotaku's source states Patrick Soderland of DICE, now a VP at EA's Games Label, decided the console game the team had been working on for the past few years wouldn't be profitable and pulled the plug on the project and studio.

EA Visceral Melbourne assisted on Dead Space, Godfather 2 and Dante's Inferno. We've contacted the publisher for comment.

JoystiqReport: EA closing Visceral Melbourne on Monday originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 16 Sep 2011 15:50:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>EAElectronic-ArtsLayoffsmicrosoftplaystationps3visceral-gamesVisceral-MelbournexboxFri, 16 Sep 2011 15:50:00 EST<![CDATA[EA incurs $322 million loss in Q3, 22% of employees in 'low cost locations']]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/02/02/ea-incurs-322-million-loss-in-q3-22-of-employees-in-low-cost/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/02/02/ea-incurs-322-million-loss-in-q3-22-of-employees-in-low-cost/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/02/02/ea-incurs-322-million-loss-in-q3-22-of-employees-in-low-cost/#comments EA suffered a net loss of $322 million for its fiscal third quarter ending December 31, 2010, a fourfold increase from the same period last year. The company generated revenues of a mere $1.05 billion during Q3, a decrease of nearly $200 million from the holidays last year. Despite significant increases in digital revenue and "record breaking" iOS sales, there wasn't enough to offset the reduction in packaged goods (disc-based games) sales, titles with "significant" development costs and the general cost of goods sold for EA's business.

The company also noted that it ended the quarter with 7,742 employees, down from 8,537 a year ago and the 7,820 workers it employed during Q2 before committing its "seasonal roll-offs." EA CFO Eric Brown mentioned that 22 percent of the publisher's employees are now in "low cost locations." We've followed up with EA for its definition of "low cost locations."

JoystiqEA incurs $322 million loss in Q3, 22% of employees in 'low cost locations' originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 02 Feb 2011 13:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>EAElectronic-ArtsfinancialsFY-2011layoffsQ3salesWed, 02 Feb 2011 13:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Frontier's 'The Outsider' on hold, but not canceled]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/01/20/frontiers-the-outsider-on-hold-but-not-canceled/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/01/20/frontiers-the-outsider-on-hold-but-not-canceled/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/01/20/frontiers-the-outsider-on-hold-but-not-canceled/#comments It seems The Outsider's inability to gel with a publisher has finally forced Frontier Developments to put the game on hold, according to statements made by studio head David Braben to Rock, Paper, Shotgun and Develop. "We have had to change priorities because of requirements on other unannounced projects," Braben told RPS, implying that development on The Outsider had ceased in favor of more promising ventures.

"There is still publisher interest in the project," he later clarified to Develop, "and we haven't canceled it."

The Outsider was first announced by Frontier in 2005 and billed as an action thriller designed to offer "genuine freedom" in gameplay and narrative. Players would assume the role of a rogue CIA agent in "an immersive, dynamic world and storyline" set in Washington, D.C. "This gives the player genuine freedom to change the story outcomes in a way not seen before," promises an ambitious game description on Frontier's site, adding, "each player will get a truly unique, sophisticated experience."

Following a failed courtship with Codemasters, it seemed the title had found its suitor in EA, but the publishing deal fell through, according to RPS's source; who also said that 17 Frontier employees had been laid off this week, in addition to a reported dozen staffers that lost their jobs late last year. "Some people have been moved," Braben confirmed to RPS, "and we are very sad to have made some people redundant."

Frontier's other known project, Elite 4, was put on hold last May. In November, the studio released Kinectimals to generally positive reviews, though there has been no indication as to its sales status.

JoystiqFrontier's 'The Outsider' on hold, but not canceled originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 20 Jan 2011 22:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>david-brabendelayseafrontierfrontier-developmentslayoffsmicrosoftnintendoplaystationps3the-outsiderwiixboxThu, 20 Jan 2011 22:00:00 EST<![CDATA['Seasonal roll-offs' hit EA for third year in a row]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/10/27/seasonal-roll-offs-hit-ea-for-third-year-in-a-row/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/10/27/seasonal-roll-offs-hit-ea-for-third-year-in-a-row/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/10/27/seasonal-roll-offs-hit-ea-for-third-year-in-a-row/#comments Following scattered reports of EA layoffs on Twitter, Joystiq confirmed with the company this afternoon that "seasonal roll-offs" have begun in the wake of the publisher's holiday release schedule. EA corporate communication spokesperson Jeff Brown explained:
"As you know, seasonal roll-offs that follow game launches are common and vital to maintaining a healthy business. Because so many of our games ship in the holiday quarter, the team size adjustments tend to follow in the same timeframe. However, EA is growing and several of our studios are looking to hire talented people."
Notably, this is (at least) the third year in a row that layoffs hit EA in the holiday season -- also like previous years, we'll have to wait and hear more when the company speaks about financials publicly on its quarterly investor's call this November 2. For now, EA wouldn't confirm which studios or how many folks were being affected by the firings. As always, we'd like to extend our best wishes to all parties involved. If you'd like to share more information regarding the layoffs, don't hesitate to get in contact.

Update: According to a report on Shacknews, "as many as 100 employees" have been affected thus far, with EA Canada and EA Black Box both specifically named. The NBA Elite 11 and Skate 3 teams are said to be hit hardest.

Joystiq'Seasonal roll-offs' hit EA for third year in a row originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 27 Oct 2010 18:17:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>eaelectronic-artsjeff-brownlayoffsrestructuringseasonal-roll-offsWed, 27 Oct 2010 18:17:00 EST<![CDATA[Recently laid-off devs rant about being recently laid off]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/03/15/gdc-recently-laid-off-developers-rant-about-being-laid-off/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/03/15/gdc-recently-laid-off-developers-rant-about-being-laid-off/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/03/15/gdc-recently-laid-off-developers-rant-about-being-laid-off/#comments I think we can all agree that, aside from being hit by a speeding train or dropping a hot meal you've been cooking for hours, being fired from your job is like, the worst thing that can happen to you. As such, we expected the speakers on last week's GDC rant panel, titled "Fired and Fired-up: Jobless Developer's Rant," to be especially inflammatory. We were not disappointed.

Just past the jump, we've highlighted three of our favorite presentations from the panel. Some of them get awfully, explicitly blue, so if you happen to find yourself reading this video game news site while at work, you might want to think twice about going beyond the break. (You should also get back to work, you lazy so-and-so!)

Continue reading Recently laid-off devs rant about being recently laid off

JoystiqRecently laid-off devs rant about being recently laid off originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 15 Mar 2010 13:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>carey-chicochris-heckerdeveloperdevelopmenteaElectronic-Artsensemblefiringgdc-2010layoffsmaxismicrosoftpandemicpanelpaul-bettnerrantMon, 15 Mar 2010 13:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Riccitiello addresses EA morale, effects of negative press]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/12/10/riccitiello-addresses-ea-morale-effects-of-negative-press/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/12/10/riccitiello-addresses-ea-morale-effects-of-negative-press/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/12/10/riccitiello-addresses-ea-morale-effects-of-negative-press/#comments
 With a second year of major layoffs at publisher Electronic Arts, questions about morale and investor perception surround the company. EA CEO John Riccitiello told IndustryGamers that in the case of morale, those who survived "understand the logic, they agree with it and support it and think we're a stronger company for the moves." The exec stresses that those who remain are "all excited about [EA's] move into digital and direct-to-consumer" -- something that may not have been true when he brought up the strategy two years ago.

Riccitiello also feels that there was a lot of bad press relating to EA's Q2 results -- the one with all the layoffs -- and that "a lot of negative articles were written that entirely missed the point that [EA] felt [it] had a great first half ... sometimes people almost believe more what they read in a newspaper than what they hear from their own company." In fairness, that seems rather understandable, given recent events in corporate America.

JoystiqRiccitiello addresses EA morale, effects of negative press originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 10 Dec 2009 10:36:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>businesseaelectronic-artsJohn-riccitiellolayoffsmoraleThu, 10 Dec 2009 10:36:00 EST<![CDATA[EA: Pandemic's California location 'significant' in decision to close studio]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/12/04/ea-pandemics-california-location-significant-in-decision-to/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/12/04/ea-pandemics-california-location-significant-in-decision-to/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/12/04/ea-pandemics-california-location-significant-in-decision-to/#comments EA CEO John Riccitiello claims there were multiple factors in the decision to shutter Pandemic Studios, but one of the most significant was the studio's California base of operations. In an interview with Kotaku, Riccitiello blamed a combination of regulatory changes that affect technology and entertainment companies in California, as well as the tax incentives offered in other countries as major factors in the company's decision. "For good or for bad, we are taking down headcount in California because it is really expensive," Riccitiello said.

Another factor in the decision is the rapid growth of digitally delivered titles and browser-based games, leading Riccitiello to believe that the industry is quickly moving away from a focus on "packaged" software. "In a world that used to be all PC, then used to be all console, now it's neither." Riccitiello's comments echo those of Square Enix boss Yoichi Wada, who recently advised publishers to prepare for the "exponential growth" of digital delivery and server-based games following the announcement the studio would restructure its Eidos London offices, resulting in layoffs.

Pandemic Studios' closure comes at an interesting time, as the announcement was made just weeks before the studio's final title: The Saboteur. However, Riccitiello reiterated that the company's brand and franchises will live on.

JoystiqEA: Pandemic's California location 'significant' in decision to close studio originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 04 Dec 2009 16:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>eaElectronic-ArtsJohn-riccitiellolayoffsPandemic-Studiosstudio-closurethe-saboteurFri, 04 Dec 2009 16:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Video: Pandemic goes out with a bang, 'Office Space' style]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/11/23/video-pandemic-goes-out-with-a-bang-office-space-style/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/11/23/video-pandemic-goes-out-with-a-bang-office-space-style/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/11/23/video-pandemic-goes-out-with-a-bang-office-space-style/#comments There's no two ways about it: having your studio shut down does not feel good. However, it does feel good to be a gangsta. Damn good. To prove this ancient adage, some former Pandemic employees put together a little Office Space-inspired video to honor the house that brought us Mercenaries, the Star Wars Battlefront series and the upcoming release, The Saboteur.

Kotaku reports that the mercilessly destroyed printer was, in fact, used by the Saboteur team, giving the video an extra layer of sweet vengeance. A word to EA: if you're missing any red Swingline staplers, we might know where they are. Watch the (very NSFW) video after the break.

Continue reading Video: Pandemic goes out with a bang, 'Office Space' style

JoystiqVideo: Pandemic goes out with a bang, 'Office Space' style originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 23 Nov 2009 14:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>closureeaElectronic-ArtsfinancelayoffspandemicPandemic-StudiosrevengeMon, 23 Nov 2009 14:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Pandemic closes physical doors, brand lives on]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/11/17/pandemic-closes-physical-doors-brand-lives-on/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/11/17/pandemic-closes-physical-doors-brand-lives-on/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/11/17/pandemic-closes-physical-doors-brand-lives-on/#comments We've got a little more perspective on the closing of Pandemic, which was rumored earlier today. Though the studio will physically close, and the majority of its staff (some 200 people) will be sacked, the brand and IPs (like Mercenaries, Star Wars: Battlefront and The Saboteur) will continue, EA representative Holly Rockwood told Joystiq. Founders Josh Resnick, Andrew Goldman, Greg Borrud will leave the company.

A lucky few from Pandemic will continue the studio's work under the EALA roof in Playa Vista, reporting to GM Sean Decker. Here's hoping that those who aren't as fortunate won't have to go too long without work.

JoystiqPandemic closes physical doors, brand lives on originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 17 Nov 2009 15:12:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>closureeaealaeconomyElectronic-ArtsfinancelayoffspandemicTue, 17 Nov 2009 15:12:00 EST<![CDATA[Rumor: Pandemic Studios to close its doors today]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/11/17/rumor-pandemic-studios-to-close-its-doors-today/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/11/17/rumor-pandemic-studios-to-close-its-doors-today/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/11/17/rumor-pandemic-studios-to-close-its-doors-today/#comments Pandemic Studios, the house behind games like Mercenaries and the forthcoming The Saboteur will be shuttered by EA today, according to sources speaking to Kotaku. Reportedly, the developer's 200-some staffers will be informed at 2 p.m. EST that all but a few (who will be integrated into other EA teams) are to be let go. Pandemic had previously been rumored as one of the studios that would be hit hardest by EA's 1,500-member staff reduction. Current Pandemic projects will reportedly shift to EA's Montreal branch, which handles Army of Two.

This story, that of a developer who puts their all into a game only to be rewarded with a firing upon its completion, is staring to become alarmingly familiar. Sure, we understand the logistics, but that's cold comfort to those Pandemic employees who may have to start tomorrow off by looking for work. We'll keep after EA for official word.

JoystiqRumor: Pandemic Studios to close its doors today originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 17 Nov 2009 10:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>eaeconomyElectronic-Artslayoffsmercenariespandemicpandemic-studiosthe-saboteurTue, 17 Nov 2009 10:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Rumor: EA cuts targeting Maxis, Pandemic, C&C staff]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/11/11/rumor-ea-cuts-targeting-maxis-pandemic-candc-staff/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/11/11/rumor-ea-cuts-targeting-maxis-pandemic-candc-staff/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/11/11/rumor-ea-cuts-targeting-maxis-pandemic-candc-staff/#comments We already knew the announced cuts coming to EA's workforce (totaling some 1,500 jobs lost) would be deep but, if a recent Kotaku report is to be believed, we're starting to get an idea of just where the gashes will come. For starters, the site says it's been told by unnamed sources that almost every member of the Command and Conquer 4 team would be let go after the game's completion, which is the very last Halo Wars feature we wanted to see copied in C&C.

More cuts are rumored to be hitting Pandemic (the house behind Mercenaries and The Saboteur) and Maxis (yeah, again). We'll keep reaching out to EA to get the official story. In the meantime, our thoughts are with those affected.

JoystiqRumor: EA cuts targeting Maxis, Pandemic, C&C staff originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 11 Nov 2009 09:10:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>command-and-conquereaElectronic-ArtslayoffsMaxispandemicthe-saboteurWed, 11 Nov 2009 09:10:00 EST<![CDATA[Losses, layoffs in EA's Q2 earnings report]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/11/09/losses-layoffs-in-eas-q2-earnings-report/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/11/09/losses-layoffs-in-eas-q2-earnings-report/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/11/09/losses-layoffs-in-eas-q2-earnings-report/#comments EA announced a net loss of $391 million in its Q2 2010, which ended September 2009. The losses have increased from last year's $310 million. In addition, sales, at $788 million, are down $106 million in Q2 2010 from the same period last year. EA CEO John Riccitiello remains positive about EA's outlook, explaining, "EA is performing well, with quality, sales and segment share up so far this year." CFO Eric Brown echoed Riccitiello with his own confusingly half-upbeat statement, saying "We met our second quarter expectations and delivered a record quarter for revenue. Today we are announcing a significant cut in our operating expenses and the acquisition of a leader in social games, Playfish."

Those cuts, revealed earlier today, will result in the loss of around 1,500 jobs by March 31, 2010. Last year's restructuring planned only 1,000 layoffs. EA estimates that the restructuring plan will save around $100 million after about $130 - 150 million of restructuring costs. We hope that, this time, the company arrives at a structure that works.

JoystiqLosses, layoffs in EA's Q2 earnings report originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 09 Nov 2009 17:50:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>businesseaearningselectronic-artseric-brownfinancialsjohn-riccitiellolayoffslossesq2-2010Mon, 09 Nov 2009 17:50:00 EST<![CDATA[EA laying off 1,500 in new round of restructuring]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/11/09/report-ea-lays-off-staff-at-four-major-divisions/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/11/09/report-ea-lays-off-staff-at-four-major-divisions/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/11/09/report-ea-lays-off-staff-at-four-major-divisions/#comments We know at least four portions of EA that probably aren't thrilled about the Playfish acquisition. Gamasutra reports that significant layoffs have taken place at EA's Tiburon, Redwood Shores, Black Box, and Mythic divisions. Gamasutra suggests that the layoffs exceed the scope of EA's normal annual layoffs. We're attempting to verify the actual percentages with EA.

According to a tweet by Katherine Pitta, "Mythic Entertainment, responsible for Warhammer Online, just laid off 80 people, about 40% of it's employees." Former EA employee Eron Garcia estimated "HUGE chunks of EA" have been let go. Mythic has been subject to layoffs in the past, as has Need for Speed and Skate developer Black Box, which already had its studio closed last year as part of another widespread round of layoffs. Best of luck to everyone affected by the layoffs!

[Update: Approximately 1,500 people have been or will be laid off as a result of this year's cuts, EA reports in its earnings statement. Last year's "major" restructuring resulted in the loss of about 1,000 jobs.]

JoystiqEA laying off 1,500 in new round of restructuring originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 09 Nov 2009 15:40:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>eaea-black-boxea-mythicea-redwood-shoresea-tiburonEARSElectronic-Artslayoffsmythic-entertainmentMon, 09 Nov 2009 15:40:00 EST<![CDATA[EA confirms Maxis layoffs, publisher still committed to Spore]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/08/26/ea-confirms-maxis-layoffs-publisher-still-committed-to-spore/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/08/26/ea-confirms-maxis-layoffs-publisher-still-committed-to-spore/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/08/26/ea-confirms-maxis-layoffs-publisher-still-committed-to-spore/#comments Joystiq has learned that at least a couple dozen employees of EA's Maxis studio were laid off today. EA confirmed that the publisher had reduced the workforce, telling Joystiq in a prepared statement, "EA has taken action to reduce the workforce at Maxis as we focus the business and focus Maxis."

The publisher stated it remains committed to Spore and other Maxis IPs. All eligible employees will receive severance and outplacement assistance. If you have more details or anything to add to this story, please feel free to contact us.

JoystiqEA confirms Maxis layoffs, publisher still committed to Spore originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 26 Aug 2009 17:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>eaea-maxisElectronic-ArtslayoffsmaxissporeWed, 26 Aug 2009 17:31:00 EST<![CDATA[Jason Rohrer: Spielberg's 'LMNO' project probably cancelled]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/06/26/jason-rohrer-spielbergs-lmno-project-probably-cancelled/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/06/26/jason-rohrer-spielbergs-lmno-project-probably-cancelled/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/06/26/jason-rohrer-spielbergs-lmno-project-probably-cancelled/#commentsBefore it was known as Boom Blox, Steven Spielberg's puzzle game project was known as PQRS, and it was revealed alongside an Xbox 360/PS3 action game, codenamed LMNO, about a former secret agent on the run with a dynamic AI character.

Boom Blox, of course, was released to great critical acclaim, but LMNO hasn't been so lucky. In fact, the last thing we heard about it were rumors that the team had been laid off (which Spielberg denied) and the project put on hold.

In an interview with Edge, Passage creator Jason Rohrer revealed that he had been involved with the project. "On top of (odd programming jobs), I did some consulting work, most recently for EA on the Spielberg LMNO project," he told Edge. "My understanding is that project's pretty much been canceled now, what with the changing economy, but I'm not sure."

[Update: EA responds, telling Kotaku: "The rumor is incorrect. EA remains deeply committed to its collaboration with Steven Spielberg and projects we are developing together. LMNO was a code name for a project in development at EALA. While the project continues to develop at EALA with Steven, we no longer refer to it as LMNO. We have no further details to reveal at this time."]

JoystiqJason Rohrer: Spielberg's 'LMNO' project probably cancelled originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 26 Jun 2009 09:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>eaElectronic-Artsjason-rohrerlayoffslmnopassagesteven-spielbergFri, 26 Jun 2009 09:45:00 EST<![CDATA[DICE 2009: Riccitiello addresses recession, a 'blessing' for gaming industry]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/02/19/dice-2009-riccitiello-addresses-recession-a-blessing-for-gam/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/02/19/dice-2009-riccitiello-addresses-recession-a-blessing-for-gam/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/02/19/dice-2009-riccitiello-addresses-recession-a-blessing-for-gam/#commentsFiled under:


Electronic Arts CEO John Riccitiello knows a thing or two about money -- and considering the recent, brutal round of layoffs that the company had to undergo, he probably knows a thing or two about the current economy's sad state of affairs as well. Loading up a tongue-in-cheek screenshot depicting a gruesome wreck in Burnout Paradise, the EA commander-in-chief addressed the recession's effects on the gaming industry, as well as his company's strategy for staying afloat, during his speech at the 2009 DICE Summit in Las Vegas.

Said strategy is unbelievably simple -- Riccitiello summed up the EA survival plan which will result in over 1,000 positions within the company being jettisoned by April in three easy to remember steps: "Start by deciding what's important. Invest heavily in those programs. And cut the rest." This likely adds insult to injury to the nine (apparently unimportant) studios and publishing locations which were recently "cut" by the company, but it sounds like this relentless pruning is in the best interest of the EA mothership.

However, according to Riccitiello, gaming enthusiasts shouldn't be completely disheartened by the recent outbreaks of industry downsizing. He hypothesizes that the "riffraff" that tarnishes the gaming universe will die out, allowing for the market to become more accomodating for the visionaries and luminaries who want to move the medium forward. We certainly hope Riccitiello's dream of a "survival of the fittest" gaming utopia is realized -- we just hope we're all not eating shoelaces and apple cores by the time it gets here.

JoystiqDICE 2009: Riccitiello addresses recession, a 'blessing' for gaming industry originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 19 Feb 2009 21:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dice-2009dice-summiteaeconomyElectronic-Artsjohn-riccitiellolayoffsrecessionThu, 19 Feb 2009 21:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Report: EA marketing and PR jobs cut in UK]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/01/27/report-ea-marketing-and-pr-jobs-cut-in-uk/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/01/27/report-ea-marketing-and-pr-jobs-cut-in-uk/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/01/27/report-ea-marketing-and-pr-jobs-cut-in-uk/#commentsFiled under:


While some may have made their saving throw and dodged the financial axe, others have not been so lucky. GI.biz reports that Electronic Arts cut multiple PR and marketing positions in the UK, leaving some cleaning out their desks and others looking for new jobs within the publishing giant's less crowded halls.

The reductions are the latest to come out of EA's plan to reduce its global workforce by 10%, and follow cuts made to its Mythic, Black Box and Tiburon developer studios. We hate to see anyone lose their job, and wish the best to all those affected. Still, we anticipate they won't have much trouble finding new gigs shoveling coal into someone else's hype machine.

JoystiqReport: EA marketing and PR jobs cut in UK originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 27 Jan 2009 16:55:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>businesseaelectronic-artslayoffsukTue, 27 Jan 2009 16:55:00 EST<![CDATA[Report: EA's Criterion, Bright Light studios safe from layoffs]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/01/26/report-eas-criterion-bright-light-studios-safe-from-layoffs/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/01/26/report-eas-criterion-bright-light-studios-safe-from-layoffs/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/01/26/report-eas-criterion-bright-light-studios-safe-from-layoffs/#commentsFiled under:


At least two studios appear to have sidestepped the torrent of layoffs that have loomed over the game industry in recent months. Develop reports that UK-based Burnout dev Criterion and Bright Light, Electronic Arts' casual game studio in Guildford, have been given immunity from EA's recent round of layoffs. That sound you hear is a collective sigh of relief.

Staff cuts at EA have been particularly deep, with numerous employees at its Mythic, Black Box and Tiburon branches given their walking papers in just the last week. With news of Bright Light's amnesty, it seems certain that EA is looking to casually dig itself out of its financial hole. Then again, maybe once Criterion gets its time circuits working we can all go back to a time when money was easier to come by.

JoystiqReport: EA's Criterion, Bright Light studios safe from layoffs originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 26 Jan 2009 08:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bright-lightburnoutburnout-paradisecriterioneaelectronic-artslayoffsukMon, 26 Jan 2009 08:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Mass layoffs hit Skate, Need for Speed dev Black Box ]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/01/22/mass-layoffs-hit-skate-need-for-speed-dev-black-box/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/01/22/mass-layoffs-hit-skate-need-for-speed-dev-black-box/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/01/22/mass-layoffs-hit-skate-need-for-speed-dev-black-box/#commentsFiled under:

As many as 200 of the 350-plus employees of EA Black Box have been given their walking papers, according to a report on Gamasutra. Joystiq has confirmed with EA public relations that the Vancouver, BC based studio let a number employees go today, although the publisher was unable to provide us with a specific tally of the affected at present.

EA Black Box is the studio responsible for the Need for Speed franchise and the just-released Skate 2. Its (now remaining) staff is currently in the process of being integrated into EA's Vancouver-area Burnaby studio. EA confirmed late last month that Black Box would close as part of its plan to reduce global staffing by 10%.

JoystiqMass layoffs hit Skate, Need for Speed dev Black Box originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 22 Jan 2009 16:06:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>black-boxeaea-black-boxelectronic-artslayoffsThu, 22 Jan 2009 16:06:00 EST<![CDATA[EA confirms layoffs at Madden dev Tiburon]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/01/22/ea-confirms-layoffs-at-madden-dev-tiburon/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/01/22/ea-confirms-layoffs-at-madden-dev-tiburon/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/01/22/ea-confirms-layoffs-at-madden-dev-tiburon/#commentsFiled under: ,


The Orlando Sentinel has confirmed another round of industry layoffs, this time at EA's Tiburon, developers of the top-selling Madden franchise. Despite EA's intentions not to discuss layoffs earlier this week in regards to Warhammer dev Mythic, Craig Hagen - who reportedly handles government affairs for EA - confirmed that layoffs had occurred at the Florida-based studio.

Hagen noted that some reductions at Tiburon were made by freezing open positions, but wouldn't specify how many employees had been laid off or in what sections of the company cuts were made. Approximately 700 people currently work at the flagship sports studio.

[Via Gamasutra]

JoystiqEA confirms layoffs at Madden dev Tiburon originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 22 Jan 2009 11:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>eaea-sportsea-tiburonelectronic-artslayoffsmaddentiburonThu, 22 Jan 2009 11:58:00 EST<![CDATA[Rumor: Mythic layoffs affect QA, customer support]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/01/19/rumor-mythic-layoffs-affect-qa-customer-support/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/01/19/rumor-mythic-layoffs-affect-qa-customer-support/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/01/19/rumor-mythic-layoffs-affect-qa-customer-support/#commentsFiled under: ,


On Friday, January 16th, we heard through the tubes that layoffs had struck at EA's Mythic Entertainment, currently riding high acceptably with Warhammer Online. Here's what we were told: 21 customer service employees, half of QA and all of the playtest group were let go. We followed up with EA for a statement regarding the matter.

EA's corporate communications informed us that the publisher already announced a "cost-cutting initiative that includes facility closures and a headcount reduction," impacting about 10% of employees. The company doesn't plan to make any further announcements outside of its scheduled earnings report and can't give particular information about facilities.

Specific questions about the status and future of Warhammer Online were not answered. All the best to the EA employees who still have their jobs -- we'll try to get an EA butcher's bill together if we learn more.

JoystiqRumor: Mythic layoffs affect QA, customer support originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 19 Jan 2009 14:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>eaea-mythicelectronic-artslayoffsmythic-entertainmentwarhammer-onlineMon, 19 Jan 2009 14:59:00 EST<![CDATA[Rumor: Tech issues ruined Dark Knight game, pushed Pandemic AU to ruin]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/01/16/rumor-tech-issues-ruined-dark-knight-game-pushed-pandemic-au-t/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/01/16/rumor-tech-issues-ruined-dark-knight-game-pushed-pandemic-au-t/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/01/16/rumor-tech-issues-ruined-dark-knight-game-pushed-pandemic-au-t/#commentsFiled under:

At this point, we don't even have confirmation that Pandemic Brisbane is gone, but according to a report from Kotaku Australia, the axe dropped after the studio couldn't finish the oft-rumored Dark Knight game in time for the film's DVD / Blu-ray release. Blame allegedly goes to the short timeframe allotted to development and a lack of technology / tools needed to make the open-world title the team had in mind.

Reportedly, a second team was working on an open-world Wii title and managed to retain rights to the project after the studio closed. We're still waiting to discover the studio's fate, but in the meantime, the report is definitely worth a read. After the break, check out footage from a different -- some would say fake -- Dark Knight game.

Continue reading Rumor: Tech issues ruined Dark Knight game, pushed Pandemic AU to ruin

JoystiqRumor: Tech issues ruined Dark Knight game, pushed Pandemic AU to ruin originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 16 Jan 2009 12:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>batmandark-knighteaelectronic-artslayoffspandemicpandemic-brisbanerumorrumorsthe-dark-knightFri, 16 Jan 2009 12:58:00 EST<![CDATA[EA details restructuring plan, laying off 10% of employees]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/12/19/ea-details-restructuring-plan-laying-off-10-of-employees/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/12/19/ea-details-restructuring-plan-laying-off-10-of-employees/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/12/19/ea-details-restructuring-plan-laying-off-10-of-employees/#commentsFiled under:


Sad news from EA: The company plans to lay off 10% of its workforce, representing about 1,000 jobs, by March 31, 2009. The new figure represents a 4% increase from the previously stated layoffs announced in October. EA's restructuring plan, which also includes "consolidating facilities," is expected to cut annual costs by $120 million.

Nine studios and publishing locations will be closed by the company, including Black Box Studio (Need for Speed) in Vancouver, British Columbia, which will move its remaining staff to EA's studio in Burnaby, BC -- the company recently killed plans for a third Canadian studio. The publisher also states it plans to focus on hit games with "higher margin opportunities." Although EA claims it's "committed to taking creative risks," there's nothing more that gamers gobble up like a good sequel ... year, after year, after year.

JoystiqEA details restructuring plan, laying off 10% of employees originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 19 Dec 2008 10:05:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>breakingnewseaea-black-boxElectronic-ArtslayoffsrestructuringFri, 19 Dec 2008 10:05:00 EST<![CDATA[EA confirms layoffs, 'disappointed' with holiday sales]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/12/09/ea-confirms-layoffs-disappointed-with-holiday-sales/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/12/09/ea-confirms-layoffs-disappointed-with-holiday-sales/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/12/09/ea-confirms-layoffs-disappointed-with-holiday-sales/#commentsFiled under:

Confirming what analysts had said yesterday, Electronic Arts has announced that it is "continuing to pursue cost saving initiatives including a reduction of its product portfolio for fiscal year 2010 with additional associated headcount reductions and facility consolidations" -- or, simply put, that more layoffs are on the way.

More directly, CEO John Riccitiello said that it was "disappointed that our holiday slate is not meeting our sales expectations" while noting that there was a "significant improvement in overall quality." EA has a conference call set for 5:00PM ET today.

JoystiqEA confirms layoffs, 'disappointed' with holiday sales originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 09 Dec 2008 16:55:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>breakingnewseaelectronic-artsjs-twitterlayoffsTue, 09 Dec 2008 16:55:00 EST<![CDATA[Analyst: Mirror's Edge, NFS, RB2 sales to spur more EA layoffs]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/12/08/analyst-mirrors-edge-nfs-rb2-sales-to-spur-more-ea-layoffs/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/12/08/analyst-mirrors-edge-nfs-rb2-sales-to-spur-more-ea-layoffs/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/12/08/analyst-mirrors-edge-nfs-rb2-sales-to-spur-more-ea-layoffs/#commentsFiled under:


There could be fewer gifts passed around at Electronic Arts' annual Christmas party as analyst Colin Sebastian anticipates the company may let go more employees in the wake of sluggish sales. While EA eliminated nearly 6% of its workforce last October, the Lazard Capital Markets soothsayer predicts that underperforming titles, including Rock Band 2, Need for Speed Undercover and Mirror's Edge, could likely lead to the company to make even deeper cuts.

EA's bottom line was able to keep from being totally dismembered, however, thanks to what the analyst calls "solid sales" of Dead Space, Left 4 Dead and FIFA 09. Even so, Sebastian lowered his third quarter outlook for the publishing powerhouse from $2.14 to $2.07 billion, leaving Scrooge McDuck with plenty to count over the holidays should Disney come knocking.

JoystiqAnalyst: Mirror's Edge, NFS, RB2 sales to spur more EA layoffs originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 08 Dec 2008 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>analystdead-spaceeaelectronic-artselectronicartsfifa-09layoffsleft-4-deadmirrors-edgeneed-for-speed-undercoverrock-band-2Mon, 08 Dec 2008 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[EA layoffs may be looming]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2006/02/01/ea-layoffs-may-be-looming/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/02/01/ea-layoffs-may-be-looming/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/02/01/ea-layoffs-may-be-looming/#commentsFiled under: , ,

A well-informed anonymous tipster has let us know that EA may be gearing up for big layoffs. Though the company hasn't made any announcements, here are some contributing factors that might lead to layoffs, if the rumor is true:
We'll keep our ears open for any more information, but it looks like EA might be in some rough waters.

JoystiqEA layoffs may be looming originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 01 Feb 2006 17:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>EAElectronic-ArtslayoffsPS3WiiXbox-360Wed, 01 Feb 2006 17:45:00 EST