Electronic Arts continues to shape the gaming industry, but not every game thrives in the competitive marketplace. As updates roll out for franchises like Apex Legends, Battlefield, and Dragon Age, players are eager to know what the future holds.
EA’s latest investor call provided crucial insights into upcoming projects, including an overhaul for Apex Legends, the launch of Battlefield Labs, and concerns over Dragon Age’s performance.
Apex Legends 2.0: A Major Overhaul on the Horizon?
One of the most intriguing revelations from EA’s investor call was the potential revamp of Apex Legends. While specific details remain under wraps, the publisher hinted at significant changes coming to the battle royale shooter.
However, any major overhaul won’t arrive until after the next Battlefield installment, meaning Apex Legends will continue its seasonal updates for the foreseeable future.
Fans speculate whether this update will be akin to Overwatch 2, which introduced gameplay refinements while preserving player progression and cosmetics. If EA follows a similar path, players might see enhanced visuals, refined mechanics, and new features designed to keep the game fresh.
Given Apex Legends’ initial 2019 release, a full-scale sequel could align with the next console generation, bringing a massive resurgence to the franchise.
Key Takeaways for Apex Legends:
- A major update or full sequel is in the works but won’t arrive before 2027.
- EA may implement a Overwatch 2-style transition to preserve player progress.
- Enhanced visuals and new mechanics could be introduced to modernize gameplay.
- The game has already reached over 200 million players worldwide.
Battlefield Labs: A New Era for the Franchise
Excitement surrounds the announcement of Battlefield Labs, a program designed to integrate player feedback into the development of the next Battlefield title. EA aims to create the largest Battlefield entry to date, and involving the community from the outset will be crucial in achieving this ambitious goal.
According to EA, the new Battlefield is set to launch in fiscal year 2026, with Battlefield Labs serving as a testbed for innovations and refinements. Given the lukewarm reception of the last two Battlefield games, developers are keen to address past shortcomings and reinvigorate the series.
What to Expect from Battlefield Labs:
- Early access to development builds for select players.
- Community-driven feedback to shape game mechanics and balance.
- An expected launch window in FY 2026.
- A commitment to reviving Battlefield’s signature large-scale warfare and destruction mechanics.
Dragon Age: The Veilguard Falls Short of Expectations
While not an esports title, Dragon Age remains a flagship franchise for EA. However, Dragon Age: The Veilguard has underperformed despite a strong initial launch. While some players enjoyed the fantasy RPG, EA admitted that it failed to resonate with the broader gaming audience.
The publisher acknowledged that certain gameplay decisions and narrative elements may not have appealed to mainstream players. Moving forward, EA must determine whether to double down on the franchise’s traditional elements or pivot toward new storytelling approaches.
Dragon Age’s Future Outlook:
- The Veilguard had a solid launch but did not meet long-term expectations.
- EA is reassessing its approach to single-player RPGs.
- The franchise’s future direction remains uncertain.
Apex Legends’ 200 Million Player Milestone
Despite the looming potential for an overhaul, Apex Legends continues to thrive. The investor call confirmed that the game has been played by over 200 million users worldwide. While this figure includes inactive accounts, it highlights the game’s continued popularity.
A full-fledged sequel or major revamp could propel Apex Legends past 300 million players, particularly if EA optimizes the experience for the next generation of consoles. Crossovers and new content updates will also play a crucial role in maintaining engagement.
The Road Ahead for EA Esports
EA’s latest announcements signal major changes in the competitive gaming landscape. Apex Legends is gearing up for a significant evolution, Battlefield is doubling down on community engagement, and Dragon Age faces an uncertain future. While challenges remain, EA is clearly investing in long-term growth across its franchises.
With Battlefield Labs set to influence the next game’s direction and Apex Legends on the brink of transformation, 2025 and beyond will be pivotal for EA’s esports and gaming ambitions.
What to Expect from Apex Legends Season 24: A Game-Changing Update