- Criterion Shifts Focus: EA has ended updates for Need for Speed Unbound as Criterion Games fully transitions to developing the next Battlefield title.
- Future of Need for Speed: While no new game is currently announced, EA plans to bring the franchise back with fresh innovations based on player feedback.
- Battlefield Expansion: Criterion joins DICE and Ripple Effect under Battlefield Studios, while Motive Studio continues working on Battlefield and an Iron Man game.
Electronic Arts has officially ended content support for Need for Speed Unbound, just over two years after its release, as Criterion Games transitions fully to the development of the next Battlefield title. The UK-based studio, widely recognized for its work on the Burnout series, had been handling post-launch updates for Need for Speed Unbound since its debut in December 2022. The game will remain available for purchase, allowing players to continue accessing the base game along with its nine content updates.
This move signals a shift in Criterion’s focus, as the entire Need for Speed team is now integrated with the rest of the studio to contribute to the Battlefield franchise. EA emphasized that the decision was made after a year of gathering player feedback, which has informed the company’s understanding of what fans expect from future Need for Speed games. While there are no immediate plans for a new title, EA has indicated that the franchise will return in the future in a reimagined form.
Criterion’s reassignment reflects a broader restructuring within EA, with other studios also aligning their efforts toward Battlefield. While Criterion joins DICE and Ripple Effect—collectively referred to as Battlefield Studios—Motive Studio, known for its work on the Dead Space remake and Star Wars: Squadrons, is maintaining its dual focus on Battlefield and an upcoming Iron Man game. EA has not announced specific release timelines for these projects.
The transition of Criterion’s Need for Speed team comes as EA gradually unveils more details about the next Battlefield installment. A recent pre-alpha gameplay showcase provided an early look at the game’s development, and EA has introduced Battlefield Labs, an initiative allowing players to test the game ahead of its official release. However, the company has yet to confirm a launch date.
The conclusion of Need for Speed Unbound updates marks the end of an era for the franchise, but EA’s commitment to reviving it in fresh and innovative ways suggests that fans can expect more racing action in the future. In the meantime, Criterion will be fully engaged in shaping the next chapter of Battlefield, a key focus for EA as it looks to strengthen the franchise.
