In a surprising move, Electronic Arts (EA) has officially announced its decision to discontinue the World Rally Championship (WRC) franchise. This decision has sent shockwaves through the gaming community, particularly among fans of rally racing games, as the franchise has been a staple for adrenaline junkies and motorsport enthusiasts alike.
"For now, we are pausing development plans on future rally titles. Rest assured, EA SPORTS WRC will continue to be available for existing and new players. We hope it remains a source of joy, excitement, and the thrill of rally racing. We've poured our hearts into making it for fans, and we know you'll keep the passion alive.
Our WRC partnership was a culmination of sorts for our Codemasters journey with off-road racing, spanning decades through titles like Colin McRae Rally, and DiRT. We've provided a home for every rally enthusiast, striving tirelessly to push the boundaries and deliver the exhilarating thrill of driving on the ragged edge. We’ve brought together incredibly talented racing developers, worked with some of the sport’s icons, and had the opportunity to share our love of rallying."
The WRC series, known for its realistic mechanics and immersive gameplay, has been a part of the gaming landscape since its first release. Since acquiring the license, EA partnered with Codemaster to bring a new level of innovation and excitement to rally racing. However, the gaming giant has decided to abandon the WRC franchise.
In an official statement, the Codemasters WRC Team expressed gratitude towards the passionate fanbase that supported the series over the years. The news has garnered mixed reactions online. Longtime fans of the WRC series have expressed disappointment over the abrupt ending of a beloved franchise, many taking to social media to share their favorite memories and moments from the games.
Meanwhile, industry analysts speculate that EA’s shift may be influenced by the shifting landscape of racing games. EA may feel the need to realign its resources and revisit its strategy for racing games.
While the future of rally games remains uncertain in EA’s hands, one thing is clear: the world of motorsport gaming has lost a significant player, and the community is left eager for what lies ahead. However, you can still enjoy to the fullest the unique experience that the latest releases in the franchise offer. Our comparator offers you the best deals for WRC 23 and other installments of the popular franchise.