Apex Legends Mobile and Battlefield Mobile were ambitious adaptations of well-established EA franchises, each of which already had a thriving fanbase on consoles and PC. The games were translated for mobile platforms in EA’s attempt to attract a new mobile demographic. They saw initial interest, with Apex Legends Mobile launching to positive reviews and Battlefield Mobile conducting regional playtests. Player engagement declined over time, however, leading to concerns for long-term sustainability.
Fans of Apex Legends Mobile and Battlefield Mobile alike took a blow when EA revealed their intent to stop the development of both games. In an official update titled “Apex Mobile Legends and Battlefield Mobile Strategies,” EA briefly describes their reasons for ceasing progress, stating that they have “made the strategic decision to stop development on Apex Legends Mobile and Battlefield Mobile.”
The decision to halt development on Apex Legends Mobile has to do with the waning support of fans and high expectations, according to the company. Even though the game launched with a supportive fanbase, “the ongoing experience was not going to meet the expectations of our players.” They explain that after working alongside their development partner and considering the issue, they “have made the mutual decision to sunset the mobile game.” The verdict appears final, although little more is stated regarding specifics on the matter.
When explaining the company’s choice to cease development on Battlefield Mobile, EA referenced the industry’s evolving ecosystem. They have decided to “pivot from the current direction” in an attempt to “deliver on [their] vision for the franchise and to meet the expectations of [their] players.” It sounds as though the franchise will continue on, although possibly through different platforms.
EA takes care to emphasize their continued passion for the Apex Legends and Battlefield properties. The update states that EA’s “love for the Apex universe and [its] players remains unchanged,” and assures readers that they look forward to “exploring this universe, its characters, and its stories.” They describe their continued effort to evolve Battlefield 2042, and their current world-wide “pre-production on [their] future Battlefield experiences.”
Only time will tell what exactly is in store for the Apex Legends and Battlefield franchises, but this announcement marks a dark day for fans of their mobile adaptations.