Electronic Arts (EA) has reportedly placed the iconic Need for Speed franchise on hiatus, raising concerns about its future. While no official statement exists yet, hints from within the gaming community and EA’s recent decisions indicate a significant shift in focus for the series. Need for Speed has been a staple of EA’s portfolio since it first hit the market in 1994.
Known for its fast-paced arcade racing, open-world environments, extensive customization options, and unique visual appeal, the franchise has enjoyed decades of success. However, in recent years, the series has struggled to maintain its momentum. The latest release, 2022’s Need for Speed Unbound, initially generated excitement but ultimately delivered disappointing sales figures.
The uncertainty surrounding Need for Speed amplified when Criterion Games, the franchise’s developer, was reassigned to work on Battlefield 6. Although Criterion assured fans that Need for Speed would continue, recent information challenges that assertion. Matthew Everingham, a long-time contributor to Speedhunters, which is closely associated with Need for Speed, indicated via an Instagram post that “EA shelved Need for Speed.”
This sentiment gains weight as updates to Speedhunters have been absent since April 2025. This relationship suggests that the hiatus of one could impact the other. As of now, EA has not commented on the situation, and the latest news from them was an announcement regarding the shutdown of online services for Need for Speed Rivals, which is set for October 7, 2025.
Given Criterion’s current focus on Battlefield 6, any new entries in the Need for Speed series are unlikely to surface before 2030. The racing game landscape has become increasingly volatile, especially after recent layoffs at various gaming studios. The concerns surrounding Need for Speed’s potential downturn are regrettable, especially considering the success of competitors like Forza Horizon 5, underscoring the franchise’s possible untapped potential.