What's Happening?
Electronic Arts (EA) is set to permanently shut down the servers for its game Need for Speed Rivals in 48 hours. Despite the server shutdown, the game will not be delisted and will remain available for purchase on various platforms including PC, PS3, PS4, Xbox 360, and Xbox One, as well as PS5 and Xbox Series X through backward compatibility. Need for Speed Rivals, released in 2013, is a 12-year-old game that has seen a decline in active players, with recent reports indicating fewer than 100 concurrent players on Steam. The decision to keep the game available for purchase despite the loss of online functionality suggests it continues to sell a notable number of copies.
Why It's Important?
The shutdown of Need for Speed Rivals' servers marks a significant moment for EA and its gaming community, highlighting the lifecycle of online games and the challenges of maintaining older titles. This move may impact players who still engage with the game, as they will lose access to its online features. For EA, this decision reflects a strategic choice to focus resources on newer titles and potentially signals a shift in priorities within its gaming portfolio. The continued availability of the game for purchase, despite the server shutdown, underscores the ongoing demand for legacy titles and the complexities of digital game distribution.
What's Next?
As EA proceeds with the server shutdown, players may seek alternative racing games or newer titles within the Need for Speed franchise. The company may also face feedback from the gaming community regarding the decision to keep the game available for purchase without online functionality. Looking ahead, EA might focus on developing new installments in the Need for Speed series or other gaming franchises, potentially announcing future projects to maintain player engagement and market presence.
