Electronic Arts (EA) is officially ending its remote work policies, marking a major shift back to in-office operations. The transition will unfold gradually over the next 3 to 24 months, depending on employees’ locations and roles, according to an internal email shared by EA CEO Andrew Wilson.
The move, confirmed in a report by IGN, comes as EA aligns with a broader industry trend that sees tech and gaming giants pushing for physical office attendance post-COVID-19.
From Remote Flexibility to Office Mandate
During the height of the COVID-19 pandemic, EA—like much of the video game industry—successfully adopted a fully remote work model. Many employees relocated to more affordable cities or adapted their lifestyles to long-term remote work, assuming the policy could become permanent.
However, with pandemic concerns receding, EA has decided to reinstate a centralized work culture. The transition will begin with hybrid roles, requiring employees to be in the office at least three days per week. Eventually, fully remote positions will be phased out, and off-site local roles will be eliminated.
Why EA Is Making the Shift
In his message to staff, Wilson stated the return-to-office policy is designed to “improve creativity, innovation, and connection”—key elements he believes are better fostered through in-person collaboration. The ultimate goal is to deliver “more incredible experiences for our players,” he said.
The change mirrors similar decisions made by companies like Activision Blizzard, which has already implemented a full office return for many of its teams.
Employee Backlash and Disruption
The response from employees has been mixed, with many expressing frustration and disappointment. Numerous workers had significantly altered their lives around remote work—moving cities, buying homes, or restructuring family commitments—only to now face a disruptive shift back to in-office requirements.
Some insiders fear the mandate could lead to increased employee attrition and harm morale, especially in an industry where talent competition is fierce and flexibility has become a key bargaining chip.
The Bigger Picture
EA’s decision reflects a wider conversation about the future of work. As more companies reevaluate the balance between flexibility and in-person interaction, the gaming industry’s next chapter may be defined as much by HR policies as by the games it produces.
Whether this shift will indeed lead to the heightened innovation EA hopes for—or spark a wave of resignations—remains to be seen.