In a significant move for the gaming community, Electronic Arts (EA) has announced the impending retirement of its ambitious title, Anthem. The decision, shared through a blog post on the company’s official website, reveals that the game will be taken offline on January 12th, 2026. This closure marks the end of an era for a title that aimed to redefine the live-service gaming landscape.
Details Surrounding the Closure
As part of the transition, EA has clarified that players will no longer be able to purchase in-game currency. However, those who have accumulated premium currency will still be able to utilize it until the game’s final day. In their message to the community, EA expressed gratitude for the dedication and passion shown by players over the years, acknowledging the support that has been a cornerstone of the game’s journey.
Despite the closure, EA has reassured stakeholders that there will be no immediate layoffs associated with this decision. However, the future remains uncertain, leaving room for speculation about potential job impacts as the company navigates this transition.
Anthem, developed by BioWare in collaboration with EA, was launched in early 2019 with high expectations. Unfortunately, it struggled to capture a substantial audience, and reports of a troubled development process soon emerged. In response to the game’s lukewarm reception, BioWare announced plans to enhance Anthem, ultimately leading to the ambitious but ultimately shelved project known as Anthem Next.
This announcement serves as a poignant reminder of the challenges inherent in the gaming industry, particularly within the realm of live-service titles. As EA prepares to close the chapter on Anthem, the gaming community reflects on the lessons learned and the evolving landscape of interactive entertainment.
