The ink is barely dry on the controversial Saudi Arabian government and Jared Kushner-backed takeover of EA, but already, a palpable sense of unease is gripping the company. While EA has publicly downplayed concerns about creative changes and job security, a new report paints a starkly different picture, revealing deep-seated anxieties among staff who fear layoffs, ownership meddling, and a fundamental shift in the company’s values.
Fear and Uncertainty at EA
According to a report from Game Developer, numerous anonymous EA employees have voiced their concerns about the new ownership structure. The report highlights fears of job losses, potential sell-offs of entire teams or game franchises, and the possibility that Saudi Arabian government values could influence future game development decisions. Despite EA’s previous assertions to the contrary, many staff members believe these concerns are valid.
One employee bluntly stated, “If EA had a culture that had any semblance of a moral backbone, it wouldn’t get into bed with a prince who’s disgusted by many of its current employees’ sexualities and ethnicities.” While acknowledging the difficulty of finding well-paying jobs in the current market ridiculously tough, this staffer expressed a strong desire to leave the company.
The Spectre of Creative Meddling
The report suggests that even subtle forms of creative meddling are now a real possibility. One employee explained, “The [crown] prince isn’t going to directly dictate changes, but projects simply won’t be approved if they don’t align with the Saudi government’s preferences, or EA might proactively try to cater to their owners because they fear that pitching something else could lead to disapproval.”
Layoffs: A Constant Threat
The threat of layoffs looms large at EA. The report indicates that employees are bracing for a series of smaller layoffs designed to avoid triggering WARN Act notices. One staffer pointed out that leveraged buyouts, which involve saddling the acquired company with debt, often lead to cost-cutting measures and the potential sale of underperforming teams or games.
Vague Reassurances and Executive Disconnect
EA’s response to these concerns has been described as “mostly just vague reassurances.” Some employees have expressed skepticism about the sincerity of these responses, with some alleging that unnamed EA executives appear out of touch. One alleged incident involved an executive muttering “little babies” during a call after concerned employees raised questions about the deal’s impact on company culture and job security.
The Silver Lining: Stock Option Payouts
In an attempt to garner employee support, EA is reportedly highlighting potential payouts for staff who own vested shares in the company, thanks to the takeover driving up EA’s stock price. However, one employee summed up the prevailing sentiment: “At this point, all you can do is get that bag today, because you’ll likely be unemployed tomorrow.”
I have reached out to EA for comment.
Beyond EA: The Wider Impact
For a broader perspective on how the EA Saudi deal is impacting game developers working under the publisher, check out Edwin’s recent interview with Bit Reactor, the studio behind Star Wars: Zero Company. Their publishing deal with EA was signed long before the takeover went through.
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