Electronic Arts has informed employees that it will permanently discontinue remote work policies, requiring full-time office attendance.
In an internal email obtained by IGN, CEO Andrew Wilson stated that office collaboration generates "a dynamic energy that sparks creativity, innovation, and teamwork – often leading to breakthrough ideas that enhance player experiences." He clarified EA's new hybrid policy mandates "working at least three days weekly from your designated office," while phasing out entirely remote positions.
EA Entertainment president Laura Miele provided additional details in a follow-up message, describing the shift toward "a unified global work framework":
Implementation won't be immediate. Continue current work arrangements until receiving updated guidance from your department. Transition periods will include minimum 12-week notices, with timing varying by location. Hybrid roles require three weekly office days as outlined in company policy. New proximity rules establish 30-mile (48-km) zones around EA offices. Key implications: Employees within 30 miles must adopt hybrid schedules. Those beyond this radius remain remote unless positions require office presence. The Offsite Local model will be discontinued over 3-24 months. All remote work exceptions and new hires now require executive approval.Anonymous EA employees told IGN about widespread concerns regarding impractical commutes, childcare logistics, and medical accommodations previously supported by remote work. Remote employees expressed anxiety about potential job impacts if unwilling to relocate, with existing remote arrangements being phased out within 3-24 months according to Miele's memo.
The gaming industry widely adopted remote work during COVID-19 lockdowns, with many workers relocating assuming permanent flexibility. However, recent return-to-office mandates across major publishers have created tension.
Several industry leaders including Rockstar, Ubisoft, and Activision Blizzard have faced employee backlash over office mandates, often resulting in staff departures. EA's policy shift follows this emerging industry trend toward renewed office presence.
This announcement follows EA's recent restructuring, including 300 company-wide layoffs after earlier reductions at BioWare and a 670-position cut last year.
IGN has contacted EA for additional statements.
