EA to target social networks

EA is to unveil a new development team focused on games for casual networks, reports GameTap.

The small team, known as EA Blueprint, is housed at EA’s Redwood Shores facility and is headed by former EALA general manager Neil Young and Alan Yu, EA’s head of artist and repertoire.

EA Blueprint will work on both new IP and extensions of existing properties, with an emphasis on social networking sites such as Facebook.

According to GameTap’s sources, one proof of concept title already exists – Facebook Smarty Pants, a version of EA’s Wii quiz IP that runs on the 62 million member-touting networking site, that was co-created with social app development house Context Optional.

The report also mentions that Creative Artists Agency is also closely involved with the team, in both providing talent and connections for funding.

A senior EA rep told the site that the full announcement would come at a later date.