Slate Daily Feed What Next: TBD | Saudi Arabia Gets into EA’s Games
Oct 5, 2025
In this installment, Jason Schreier, a Bloomberg reporter specializing in the video game industry, dives into the recent $55 billion acquisition of EA. He discusses the implications for the 14,500 employees amidst concerns of layoffs and shifting business models. The conversation touches on the influence of Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030, Jared Kushner's involvement, and how EA's live-service games drive revenue. Jason also explores gamers' mixed feelings about EA and the future of the gaming landscape as it transitions towards persistent revenue models.
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Live Service Powers EA's Revenue
- EA earns most of its money from live service features rather than one-time game sales.
- This recurring-revenue model makes EA attractive to investors seeking predictable income streams.
EA's Longstanding Franchise Lineup
- Jason summarizes EA's history and flagship franchises including Madden and The Sims.
- He notes EA began in 1982 and became one of the original major game companies.
EA's Reputation Splits Hardcore And Casual Gamers
- Hardcore gaming communities often resent EA for profit-driven decisions and aggressive monetization.
- Casual players still buy annual titles like Madden, giving EA steady mainstream demand.