Criterion Confirms Focus on Battlefield Over Need for Speed Franchise

As Criterion focuses on Battlefield moving forward, Battlefield Studios Europe's vice president and general manager, Rebecka Coutaz, has confirmed that the Need for Speed and Burnout franchises are not the focus of the company anymore.

Criterion's vice president, Rebecka Coutaz, stated during a celebration of the studio's 30th anniversary that the Need for Speed and Burnout franchises are no longer the company's priority. She emphasized that Criterion is now solely dedicated to the Battlefield series. Since taking over the Need for Speed games in 2010 with 'Hot Pursuit,' Criterion has shifted its focus to Battlefield, leaving the future of the racing franchises uncertain.

Coutaz highlighted the strengths gained from developing racing games, mentioning that while the focus has shifted to Battlefield's intense player experience, elements like cinematic views and instant rewards from their previous titles are still integral. Despite the studio's history with racing games, Criterion's current priority is enhancing the Battlefield experience, with recent updates focusing on improving player cosmetics.