EA Remains Committed to Marvel Games Despite Black Panther Cancellation: What’s Next?

Despite the recent cancellation of its Black Panther game and the closure of Cliffhanger Games, Electronic Arts (EA) has reaffirmed its commitment to its partnership with Marvel Games. The decision, announced earlier this week, has raised questions about the future of EA's Marvel projects, but the publisher insists that "at least three" Marvel games are still in development.

The cancellation of the Black Panther game, which was announced in 2023 but remained largely under wraps, coincided with another round of layoffs at EA. EA Entertainment president Laura Miele stated that the move would allow the company to "sharpen our focus and put our creative energy behind the most significant growth opportunities". The decision to shutter Cliffhanger Games further fueled speculation about the future of EA's licensed IP ventures.

However, EA has assured that the multi-title, long-term relationship with Marvel Games "remains strong." A spokesperson told IGN that development of console and PC titles continues, with Motive Studios leading the charge, beginning with Marvel's Iron Man. The fate of the remaining two Marvel games after Iron Man is still uncertain, but EA and Marvel are both signaling that the relationship is alive and well. Laura Miele, President of EA Entertainment, stated that the company partnership with Marvel "remains strong and our multi-title, long-term collaboration continues."

This news comes amidst a series of cost-cutting measures at EA, including layoffs in April affecting Respawn Entertainment (Apex Legends, Star Wars Jedi) and project cancellations, including a purported new Titanfall game. Further cuts followed the ending of EA's WRC licensing partnership. The wave of financial changes comes as EA chief Andrew Wilson has made it clear the company’s priority is its biggest franchises, including EA Sports, “The Sims,” “Battlefield” and “Apex Legends,” and upcoming game “Skate,” rather than making licensed games.

Currently, it appears that Motive Studios finds itself in a similar predicament to Respawn, each studio obligated to develop three games under Disney-owned franchises. As one Marvel spokesperson said, the long-term relationship between Marvel Games and EA "remains strong" as they work on storytelling "with various, beloved Marvel characters". The studio is known for its talented team and its commitment to avoiding live service elements in its single-player games.

While the cancellation of the Black Panther game is undoubtedly a setback, the continued commitment to the Marvel partnership signals a strategic shift at EA, focusing on delivering high-quality experiences for Marvel fans.

What do you think about EA’s continued commitment to Marvel? Will the Iron Man game be a success? Share your thoughts in the comments below!

• EA
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