Electronic Arts late yesterday said as part of its FY '13 and Q4 earnings report that it still plans to release a new edition of "NBA Live" in the next year despite a three-year lapse and continued rumors of development problems. Further details will be disclosed at the E3 industry conference in L.A. next month. EA's basketball video gaming business has undergone significant turbulence in the last several years including two shuttered game editions, multiple overhauls of key development personnel, and a shift of the game's production from Vancouver to Orlando. EA Labels President Frank Gibeau said, "We're very focused on getting into the NBA business in a significant way this year." He also promised a reveal at E3 of a "brand new (game) engine from EA Sports" as the company and rest of the industry prepare for the next console hardware generation. Meanwhile, EA said it sold 14.5 million units of "FIFA 13," up about 30% from the prior year's edition, and generated more than $200M in digital revenue from the game franchise, up 94% from "FIFA 12." EA ended the quarter with $323M in net income, down from $400M in Q4 a year ago. It also reported total revenue of $1.2B, down from $1.37B.
STAYING IN THE GAME: EA today announced it has extended its licensing agreement with FIFA through '22. The company retains the right to develop its "FIFA" game franchise, including World Cup editions, and retains its status as a presenting partner of the FIFA Interactive World Cup.
