Criterion Games, developer of titles such as Burnout and Need for Speed: Hot Pursuit, has formally joined EA Entertainment, according to a press release written by EA’s Vince Zampella. Criterion has been an EA studio since it was acquired in 2004, but it will now be primarily working on the Battlefield franchise.
“Today, Criterion is added to our world-class Battlefield studios dedicated to ushering in a new era for the franchise,” wrote Zampella, who oversees studios working on Apex Legends, Star Wars Jedi, Battlefield, and Need for Speed.
“The majority of the team will be working alongside DICE, Ripple Effect, and Ridgeline that are led by Byron Beede, GM of Battlefield. Criterion’s experience with Battlefield, our technology and building engaging experiences will have an immediate positive impact as we continue to work on Battlefield 2042, and as we continue pre-production on a connected Battlefield Universe.”
While known for racing games like Burnout and Need for Speed, Criterion has previously assisted on Battlefield games and other shooters under the EA umbrella, including the Star Wars Battlefront series. The last game Criterion released itself was the surprising 2022 Need For Speed Unbound.
Zampella goes on to emphasize that work on the Need for Speed franchise isn’t ceasing as a result of this announcement, though he doesn’t specifically state that Criterion will be responsible for future entries.
“I’m really looking forward to working with a core group as we shape what’s next for the [Need for Speed] franchise,” said Zampella.
