EA skips annual Need for Speed for the first time in 13 years

Electronic Arts has released at least one new Need for Speed game every year since 2001, but the company announced today that it will break that streak to give the folks at Ghost Games more time to work on the next entry in the franchise. EA CEO Andrew Wilson confirmed that the company would not be releasing a new Need for Speed game in the 2015 fiscal year during a conference call EA held with shareholders today to discuss the company's fourth quarter and fiscal year financial results. "Ghost Games in Gothenburg is working on an innovative new chapter of this storied franchise," said Wilson. "We’ve planned an extended development window to ensure we’re delivering a high-quality experience for Need for Speed players next year." The news comes after reports of significant layoffs at Ghost Games earlier this year, just months after the studio released Need for Speed Rivals. Development on the next Need for Speed title was reportedly put on hold while the layoffs and ensuing restructuring were sorted out.