There is no major audience for arcade NFL. . .
Yesterday, news broke that 2K Sports was officially bringing football back to their company. Considering EA’s exclusive license for exclusive NFL games ends next year, many believe that Take-Two could be looking to get NFL 2K back on the market.
The announcement for 2K Sports Football, was they were planning to make a non-simulation football game. Many speculated that an arcade-like title, similar to NFL Blitz would be the title.
However, that’s not the case. Thanks to the success of NBA 2K’s MyCareer Mode, which enables users to purchase VC for Pro Am, Rec and Park; an exact replica of a football title is in the works. Yes, you’ll be able to play NFL 2K21 with modes similar to Park, Rec and Pro Am; which will require users to either invest money or invest time in building players.
The reason why they’re using the NFL title, is because player likenesses will be used when creating MyPlayers for their Rec, Pro Am and Park like games. So, you’ll be able to create and blend your favorite players throwing power, speed, running power and other attributes in career builder.
The MyCareer mode has essentially given the NBA 2K series new life, as well as overwhelming success to the point that game is marketed with their Park mode. That audience is expected to join NFL 2K next year, as we anticipate traditionalist to stay with EA’s Madden series.
Speaking of which, the exclusivity license for EA Sports and the NFL isn’t going anywhere – ever. We expect both parties to quickly come to an agreement and reup on another decade long deal; as Madden has been a top 5 selling game every year since the initial 2004 deal.
Take a look at their response below.
EA Response: EA SPORTS is the exclusive publisher of NFL simulation games, and our partnership with the NFL and NFLPA remains unchanged. Our agreements have always allowed for non-exclusive development of non-simulation games on various platforms. Our commitment to NFL fans, which spans almost 30 years, has never been stronger, and we’re having our biggest year yet. Madden NFL 20 is the most successful game ever in the franchise, and new modes like Superstar KO and our Madden NFL esports broadcasts are growing the fan base. We’ll be building on that momentum with more new and different experiences, on more platforms and with new ways to play, in the years to come.