Image Credit: EA Sports

Saudi Arabia’s expanding influence in the global gaming industry reached a historic moment as the kingdom’s Public Investment Fund moves forward with a $55 billion plan to acquire a controlling stake in Electronic Arts. If finalized in 2026, the deal would mark one of the largest acquisitions in entertainment history and position Saudi Arabia as a dominant force in interactive media.

Electronic Arts, best known for franchises like Battlefield, The Sims, and EA Sports FC, would transition from a publicly traded American company to one largely controlled by sovereign wealth capital. The acquisition aligns with Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 initiative, which aims to diversify the national economy while strengthening its cultural and technological footprint worldwide.

According to reports, the acquisition is being led by the Public Investment Fund alongside Silver Lake and Affinity Partners. Once complete, the Saudi-backed group would own more than 90 percent of EA. Despite the scale of the deal, EA leadership has communicated to employees that no immediate layoffs or structural overhauls are planned. Development across EA’s studios is expected to continue without disruption.

For players, the acquisition raises important questions. Increased funding could lead to larger development budgets, stronger post-launch support, and more ambitious projects. At the same time, concerns remain about creative independence and how new ownership could influence long-term franchise direction.

Industry analysts view the deal as a signal that gaming is entering a new era of consolidation. As development costs rise and growth stabilizes, publishers may increasingly turn to global investment funds for stability. Saudi Arabia’s move into AAA publishing suggests that geopolitical and economic forces will play a growing role in shaping the future of games.

If approved by regulators, this acquisition will likely influence how studios operate, how games are funded, and how power is distributed across the industry.

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