Read what EA CEO has to say on laying off 6% of workforce – Times of India

Electronic Arts is one of the biggest game developers in the world. The developer has titles like FIFA 23, Apex Legends, The Sims among other big names. However, it looks like the economic downturn has hit the gaming company as well. The company has announced that it will be reducing its workforce by 6%.
EA CEO Andrew Wilson posted a blog where he made the announcement. “As we drive greater focus across our portfolio, we are moving away from projects that do not contribute to our strategy, reviewing our real estate footprint, and restructuring some of our teams,” said Wilson in the blog post.
Here’s Wilson’s message to employees in full:

“

Team,

As we near the end of the fiscal year, I’m writing to share an update on our business. Even amidst macro uncertainty, EA is operating from a position of strength. Our business is gaining momentum as we continue to deliver high quality games and amazing content across some of the largest, most beloved franchises in the world. At the heart of global football culture, EA SPORTS FIFA 23 is pacing to be the biggest title in franchise history. Apex Legends performance is strong on the heels of a memorable 4th anniversary event, and The Sims is fueling imagination and engagement across its passionate community.

We are leaders in a dynamic industry with new audiences, new technology, and new media trends fundamentally reshaping the world around us. This level of transformation creates powerful opportunities. Now, more than ever, we must be focused on our strategic priorities: building games and experiences that entertain massive online communities; creating blockbuster interactive storytelling; and amplifying the power of community in and around our games with social and creator tools. These priorities align our investments with opportunities to make the biggest impact.

As we drive greater focus across our portfolio, we are moving away from projects that do not contribute to our strategy, reviewing our real estate footprint, and restructuring some of our teams. These decisions are expected to impact approximately six percent of our company’s workforce. This is the most difficult part, and we are working through the process with the utmost care and respect. Where we can, we are providing opportunities for our colleagues to transition onto other projects. Where that’s not possible, we are providing severance pay and additional benefits such as health care and career transition services. Communicating these decisions began earlier this quarter and we expect them to continue through early next fiscal year.

I want to extend my deep appreciation to all our employees who have contributed to our incredible story so far. It’s through your love of games that we continue to deliver on our mission of inspiring the world to play. Looking forward, we are focused on writing our next great chapter by bringing more amazing games to more people around the world — inspiring them to build community, participate in shared fandom, and have joyful experiences. The future of entertainment is interactive, and no team is better equipped to lead this transformation than us.

Thank you for all that you do.

Andrew”