EA disbands Victory Studios

EA has halted development on the free-to-play version of popular RTS franchise Command & Conquer and disbanded the team working on the title.

A message from Victory Studios broke the news to fans, explaining that the team felt they’d chosen the wrong direction for the game.

“In this case, we shifted the game away from campaign mode and built an economy-based, multiplayer experience. Your feedback from the alpha trial is clear: We are not making the game you want to play,” said a Victory spokesperson.

“That is why, after much difficult deliberation, we have decided to cease production of this version of the game. Although we deeply respect the great work done by our talented team, ultimately it’s about getting you the game you expect and deserve.”

Originally known as Command & Conquer Generals 2, the title was changed to just Command & Conquer. Along with the rebranding came a shift from single to multiplayer gameplay, with episodic content and a free-to-play business model.

This was apparently the wrong call, and the developers have paid a heavy price.

"The team at Victory Games will be disbanded," an EA spokesperson told Polygon.

"Wherever possible, we are working to help these talented people find other opportunities within EA."