Saudi Arabian owners of EA consider merging with Savvy Games, whilst Ubisoft and Blizzard announce changes to enhance user experience.
Today’s PC gaming news sees some potentially seismic shifts in the industry alongside updates focused on enhancing user experiences across different platforms.
EA and Savvy Games: A Potential Merger
Just over a month after Electronic Arts (EA) was acquired by the Saudi Arabian government’s Public Investment Fund in a $55 billion deal, there is speculation about further consolidation. According to Rock Paper Shotgun, the new owners are reportedly considering merging EA with their other gaming entity, Savvy Games Group. Such a merger could create a new powerhouse in the gaming industry, potentially directing all future video games-related businesses from the Saudi wealth fund under this expanded umbrella. The implications could be vast for both companies’ game development and publishing strategies.
Steam to Potentially Ditch Ubisoft Connect
Players on Steam may soon find their Ubisoft games simpler to access. Rock Paper Shotgun reports that Ubisoft is testing a new tool that might eliminate the need to use their Connect launcher for Ubisoft games on Steam. This test is currently being carried out with Prince of Persia The Lost Crown. If successful, the change could streamline access to Ubisoft’s titles for Steam players, addressing a common complaint about the cumbersome Connect launcher.
Blizzard Takes Stronger Stance Against Gold Buying in WoW
In response to longstanding community concerns, Blizzard Entertainment is taking a firmer approach against gold buying in their new MMORPG, World of Warcraft Forever. According to PCGamesN, the studio will “very aggressively” crack down on the purchase of in-game currency through third-party transactions. This heightened enforcement is intended to maintain game balance and fairness for all players, addressing previous criticisms that the company had been too lenient on such activities.
Other Notable Updates
- Last Epoch is making a strong return with its Season 5, bringing new content and a change in leadership. According to PCGamesN, Eleventh Hour Games is continuing to innovate within the ARPG space with its unique features and satisfying battles.
- Soulframe has released its Preludes 16 update, introducing elements like adorable wolf pups, fishing, and dynamic weather, providing more life and interactivity to its fantasy world. More details can be found on PCGamesN.
In a broader industry concern, PC Gamer sheds light on legal battles facing AI, with court documents recently revealing that Microsoft’s AI initiatives like Copilot could potentially undermine both the performance of AI models and the internet’s content economy.
Overall, this period in PC gaming highlights significant shifts around corporate mergers, platform accessibility, and game management, while addressing broader tech industry concerns.
