Criterion Shifts Focus to Battlefield Development Under Vince Zampella's Guidance

EA's renowned Criterion studio is undergoing a divisional change, moving under the EA Entertainment banner to work on the esteemed Battlefield franchise. Previously operating under the EA Sports umbrella, the UK-based studio will now be part of Vince Zampella's group within EA Entertainment. Fortunately, this shift does not involve any planned layoffs, as confirmed by EA to GamesIndustry.biz. Criterion, known for its work on the Burnout and Need for Speed series, has prior experience with the Battlefield and Battlefront games, as well as familiarity with the Frostbite engine. In addition to its new focus on Battlefield, the studio will continue to spearhead the development of future Need for Speed titles. Criterion joins a list of esteemed Battlefield studios, including DICE, Ripple Effect, and Ridgeline. According to Zampella, 'We're all-in on Battlefield,' and the addition of Criterion to the roster of world-class Battlefield studios will usher in a new era for the franchise. The majority of the Criterion team will collaborate with DICE, Ripple Effect, and Ridgeline, led by Byron Beede, GM of Battlefield. Zampella expressed his excitement about Criterion's involvement, citing their experience with the Battlefield series and their ability to create engaging experiences. The studio's work on Need for Speed will also continue, with Zampella noting his personal passion for the racing genre. Meanwhile, EA's other racing studio, Codemasters, will remain under the EA Sports umbrella, focusing on developing officially licensed F1 and WRC games. An EA Sports spokesperson emphasized that racing remains a critical component of the EA Sports portfolio, with a focus on creating authentic, best-in-class motorsports experiences. This development follows a year of significant changes for Criterion, including the departure of several key leaders and the formation of a new startup called Fuse Games.