EA Confirms Respawn and DICE Will Collaborate on New Star Wars Battlefront Project
Electronic Arts is merging two studios for a new Star Wars game while shutting down BioWare and laying off staff.
Key points
- EA confirmed Respawn and DICE will collaborate on a future project, reportedly Star Wars Battlefront 3.
- The publisher is shutting down BioWare and canceling Mass Effect 5 as part of a restructuring.
- Approximately 400 employees across EA studios were laid off in this first major post-acquisition move.
Electronic Arts has announced that its Respawn and DICE studios will work together on a new video game project. This collaboration comes as the publisher restructures its operations, resulting in significant layoffs and the permanent closure of its BioWare studio. The move marks the first major operational change since a group of investors acquired EA.
In plain English
The new project is widely reported to be Star Wars Battlefront 3. According to Variety, multiple sources confirmed this title. EA executives Cam Weber and David Tinson stated the decision follows the success of Battlefield 6. They noted that the live-service model worked well for that title. The company wants to apply those lessons to future games. This means focusing on online multiplayer experiences that receive ongoing updates and content.
The background
Star Wars Battlefront 2 launched in 2017, but support ended in 2020. Fans had assumed the series was inactive. Earlier reports suggested DICE would partner with Bungie, the developer of Destiny. EA has not officially named the new game. However, the confirmation of the studio merger aligns with the Battlefront rumors. The publisher aims to revive this popular franchise with a modern approach.
What changes now
EA is cutting 400 jobs across its studios. BioWare, known for Dragon Age and Mass Effect, is shutting down. Roughly 50 staff members at BioWare were laid off. Work on Mass Effect 5 has been canceled. Despite these cuts, EA plans to invest in Apex Legends. The company also has two major launches scheduled: Marvel's Iron Man and Star Wars Jedi 3. EA Sports will continue with new projects for The Sims and Skate.
Key terms explained
Live-service games require ongoing developer support after launch. Teams usually release new content, balance changes, and events to keep players engaged. This model differs from traditional games that are sold as complete products. Check whether a game has a robust community and active development roadmap before investing time. Look for regular updates and transparent communication from the developers. This ensures the game remains viable and enjoyable over the long term.
What to do and how to stay safe: Electronic Arts
- Review your account security settings on any gaming platforms you use regularly.
- Monitor official social media channels for accurate updates on game releases and studio changes.
- Check your saved game data and cloud backups to ensure progress is secure.
- Stay informed about privacy policies when new live-service games launch.
General security guidance from the Vector Update newsroom. It is not confirmed advice from the organisations named in this story.
Frequently asked questions
What game are Respawn and DICE making together?
While EA has not officially named the project, Variety reports it is Star Wars Battlefront 3.
Is BioWare still making Mass Effect games?
No, BioWare has been shut down and work on Mass Effect 5 has been canceled.
How many people lost their jobs at EA?
Approximately 400 staff members were laid off across EA studios during this restructuring.
