The Sims and Fifa game company to help gamers communicate and stay connected – as well as defeating foes
- Electronic Arts wants players of games like Battlefield, The Sims and Madden NFL to chat and socialise without leaving the game, by adding communication tools
- Games for next-generation consoles, such as Madden NFL 21 and FIFA 21, are also on the way, and cult favourite Skate is returning after a decade
Video game company Electronic Arts has seen the future of gaming and it’s as much about socialising as it is blasting enemies.
The company is working to build more ways to communicate into its software, so that friends can chat and share the experience without having to leave the game.
Right now, many people play games while simultaneously using video apps such as Discord. The idea is to bring more of those capabilities into the games themselves, says Laura Miele, Electronic Arts’ chief studios officer.
“I think we need to support video social engagement in one experience versus people having multiple apps,” Miele says. “There’s a big opportunity there.”
The company, which makes the Battlefield, The Sims and Madden NFL series, is trying to develop new ways for people to plot their strategy and exchange gear before battle, and to share user-generated content, she says. She called the effort a priority.
With many people still stuck at home during the coronavirus pandemic, video games have become bigger gathering places. A growing number of people are using game platforms to watch movies, attend concerts and just hang out with friends. In-game birthday parties and graduations also are becoming more common.