EA will be a very different company under private ownership

The article discusses the potential implications of Electronic Arts (EA) becoming a privately-owned company. Analysts suggest that this move could lead to significant changes for EA's studios, such as BioWare, and raises concerns about potential Saudi Arabian interference. The article highlights that under private ownership, EA may face increased pressure to maximize profits, potentially at the expense of creative freedom and long-term development. This could result in the prioritization of live-service and mobile gaming over traditional single-player experiences. Furthermore, the article raises concerns about the involvement of the Public Investment Fund (PIF) of Saudi Arabia, which is set to become a significant shareholder in the company. Analysts suggest that this could lead to potential meddling in creative decisions and the possibility of censorship or restrictions on content. The article emphasizes the uncertainty surrounding EA's future and the potential challenges facing the company's studios, as they navigate the transition to private ownership and the potential influence of Saudi Arabian stakeholders.