Electronic Arts Acquires DICE, Retains Battlefield Focus

Major developer and publisher Electronic Arts has announced that it has completed the acquisition of the Swedish-headquartered Digital Illusions CE (aka DICE) development studio, making the company a fully integrated EA studio. The acquisition is effective immediately. The deal also sees DICE CEO Patrick Söderlund named as an EA Studio General Manager, where he will continue his role maintaining responsibility for the DICE studio while taking on additional creative responsibilities. The remainder of the DICE leadership team will continue in their roles in Stockholm. Electronic Arts originally obtained a controlling stake in the developer in January 2005, and successfully completed the purchase of the developer in March 2006. Prior to this, there had already been close collaboration between the two companies, with Söderlund noting, “We’ve been working very closely with EA for the past five years and this is a very natural step for us as we move into the next generation of gaming.” According to a statement released by Electronic Arts, DICE will continue to focus on its long running Battlefield franchise, and will create new products for the PC and next-generation consoles, as well as unspecified “new platforms.” The company's current project is the upcoming Battlefield 2142, which ships for the PC this month. The acquisition was completed with EA acquiring all of the assets and liabilities held by the developer. DICE shareholders, representing approximately 2.6 million shares, will receive SEK 67.50 ($9.22) per share in cash, to be paid out on October 16, 2006. “EA is thrilled to officially welcome this team of incredibly talented people and a globally recognized game franchise,” said Paul Lee, President of EA’s Worldwide Studios. “The DICE studio has strong opportunity for growth as we build the Battlefield franchise and other new products. We’re confident that our creative approach and business leadership principles are well matched to share future success.”