EA's VP, Vince Zampella, recently provided an update on the status of the Need for Speed franchise. With over two years having passed since the release of NFS Unbound, EA remains quiet on the series' future.
This silence is explained by Criterion Games' current commitment to the next Battlefield installment. Zampella confirmed that Battlefield is EA's top priority, a project receiving significant development resources and incorporating substantial player feedback. Four studios are collaborating on this ambitious title.
Zampella emphasized EA's commitment to learning from past mistakes, specifically referencing the negative reception of Battlefield 2042. This player-centric approach extends to future NFS Unbound content.
It's highly probable that EA will refocus on Need for Speed after the launch and initial post-release support of the new Battlefield game. This delay might prove beneficial. Recent NFS entries haven't met fan expectations, and a deliberate reboot, prioritizing player feedback, could be more effective after some time has passed, allowing for the fading of past disappointments and the potential resurgence of nostalgia.
In short, don't anticipate any Need for Speed announcements in the immediate future.