Electronic Arts (EA) has officially told its employees that it will no longer allow permanent remote work. The company wants workers to return to the office.
In an email sent to staff, which was seen by IGN, EA’s CEO Andrew Wilson explained that in-person work generates “kinetic energy” that helps with creativity, innovation, and connection. He added that this often leads to unexpected discoveries, which result in incredible experiences for players.
Hybrid Work and Office Requirements
Wilson also mentioned that employees who prefer a “hybrid work” model, meaning some time in the office and some at home, must now work at least three days a week in the local office. He also stated that remote roles would be gradually phased out.
In a follow-up email, EA Entertainment President Laura Miele provided more details, explaining that the company is shifting from a “decentralized approach to a globally consistent, enterprise-wide work model.”
However, some EA employees, speaking anonymously to IGN, said they are upset and confused by these changes. Many expressed concerns about the long commute to the office, while others worried about child care or health issues that benefited from remote work.
Remote Work in the Gaming Industry
Remote work has long been seen as normal in the video game industry, and it became especially popular during and after the 2020 COVID-19 pandemic. The need to stay home led most AAA companies to adopt remote work as a long-term solution. In the years following, many companies hired more remote workers, and those already close to the office moved to cheaper cities, thinking remote work would remain permanent.
Despite this, other major gaming companies have recently called employees back to the office, which has caused frustration. Employees have even had to choose between expensive moves and keeping their jobs.
