Electronic Arts has announced it will not release an NCAA Football game in 2014.
Speaking on EA’s blog The Beat, Cam Weber who is the general manager of American football at EA Sports said the firm is “evaluating” its plan for the future of the franchise.
“This is as profoundly disappointing to the people who make this game as I expect it will be for the millions who enjoy playing it each year,” he said. “I’d like to explain a couple of the factors that brought us to this decision.
“We have been stuck in the middle of a dispute between the NCAA and student-athletes who seek compensation for playing college football. Just like companies that broadcast college games and those that provide equipment and apparel, we follow rules that are set by the NCAA – but those rules are being challenged by some student-athletes. For our part, we are working to settle the lawsuits with the student-athletes. Meanwhile, the NCAA and a number of conferences have withdrawn their support of our game.
“The ongoing legal issues combined with increased questions surrounding schools and conferences have left us in a difficult position – one that challenges our ability to deliver an authentic sports experience, which is the very foundation of EA Sports games.
“College football has always been a labor of love, and it is unfortunate that these business and legal issues have impacted our ability to make next year’s game. This franchise has been developed by a team that is deeply committed to the tradition and culture of this sport – that’s why fans have always loved it.
“We are working to retain the talented people who are part of the team by placing them elsewhere within the EA Sports organization. ”
Weber said this decision does not affect EA’s commitment to NCAA Football 14 and the consumers who love playing the game.
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