EA’s $55 billion buyout has devs and players talking, and Larian Studios director Swen Vincke weighed in on X on October 2, 2025, writing, “Probably a good time to remind people that making games faster and cheaper while charging more has never worked before.” The remark landed as communities expressed concern about layoffs, live-service shifts, and pricing changes following the deal.
EA, the publisher behind titles such as Battlefield 6 and The Sims 4, recently agreed to go private in a $55 billion deal that has sparked concern. Those concerns span from The Sims 4 fans’ fears about layoffs to analysts warning EA may double down on live services and sports at the expense of new ideas.
Vincke’s post links the broader industry worry to a simple principle. His thread originally included a more explicit reference to “the games industry,” and he later removed a closing line that read, “Not sure why they think it’ll work now.” Fans noticed the timing and replied with their own blunt takes, like one user who argued investors only care if a move makes money, and will cut staff and rush products if that helps the bottom line.
The comment has prompted discussion around Baldur’s Gate 3 and how studios balance quality with commercial pressures. The exchange occurred even as the EA CEO described the buyout as a new era of opportunity, and players and developers continue to assess what the deal might mean for games and teams.
Vincke’s reminder lands for anyone who cares about how games are made and who ends up paying for shortcuts. If you’ve got thoughts on what the EA buyout will mean for developers or your favorite series, drop a comment below and let us know. Follow us on X and Bluesky.
