Electronic Arts Reduces Codemasters Workforce

Electronic Arts has initiated a series of job cuts at Codemasters, the development studio behind the F1 series. According to reports, an unspecified number of staff members at the UK-based studio have been laid off as a result of "minor structural adjustments" implemented by EA. Codemasters was responsible for the recent launches of F1 23 and EA Sports WRC. "The gaming landscape is constantly evolving, and as we strive to create engaging experiences for our players, we must adapt our business to meet these changing needs," EA stated. "Occasionally, this necessitates making minor adjustments to our organizational structure to ensure our teams and resources are aligned with our shifting priorities. The company added: "We are committed to providing support to those affected by these changes and are working closely with them throughout this transition. Earlier in the year, EA unveiled a restructuring plan that would result in the layoff of 6% of its workforce. In 2021, EA acquired Codemasters for $1.2 billion with the goal of "revolutionizing" the racing game genre by incorporating F1, Project CARS, GRID, Dirt, and WRC into its portfolio, which already included Need for Speed, Real Racing, and Burnout. Last year, the development team at Codemasters Cheshire was merged with Criterion Games to collaborate on the Need for Speed series.