Veteran Game Developer Glen Schofield Expresses Concern Over Activision and EA's Future

Glen Schofield, a renowned game developer and former employee of Activision and Electronic Arts, has shared his thoughts on the current state of these industry giants. In a LinkedIn post, Schofield expressed that it is 'challenging' to witness the direction both companies are heading, describing the experience as 'bittersweet'. This comes after Activision Blizzard's acquisition by Microsoft for $68.7 billion and Electronic Arts' impending purchase by a consortium, including the Saudi Arabian Public Investment Fund, for $55 billion. Schofield, who spent over seven years at Electronic Arts and later co-founded Sledgehammer Games, which was acquired by Activision, reflected on his time at both companies. He stated that watching these publishing giants 'fade from their roles as dominant publishers and powerhouse training grounds' has a greater impact on him than expected. Despite the difficulties, Schofield sees an opportunity for the next generation of industry professionals to rise and fill the gap left by Activision and EA. 'It's tough to watch these companies step back from what they once were: major publishers, major developers, and incredible places to grow, learn, and sharpen your craft,' he wrote. 'But there's a bright side: it's time for others to step up. New leaders. New studios. New publishers. Someone will take that mantle, we always do as an industry.'