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EA Ends Remote Work, Mandates Office Return

by Zachary Dec 06,2025

Electronic Arts has informed employees that it will permanently discontinue its remote work policies, requiring a full return to office operations.

In an internal email obtained by IGN, CEO Andrew Wilson stated that in-office collaboration generates "a dynamic energy that drives creativity, innovation, and team cohesion, frequently leading to breakthrough ideas that enhance player experiences." He clarified that the company's revised "hybrid work" policy will mandate "at least three office days per week" while phasing out "offsite local positions."

EA Entertainment president Laura Miele provided additional details in a subsequent email, describing the shift from decentralized operations to a "unified global work model":

These changes won't be implemented immediately. Employees should maintain their current work arrangements until receiving specific instructions from their business units.All work model transitions will include a minimum 12-week advance notice, with implementation timelines varying by location.The hybrid model requires at least three weekly office days, consistent with CEO Wilson's company-wide directive.EA is establishing a standardized 30-mile (48-km) radius around all office locations.Key implications:Employees within this radius must adopt hybrid scheduling.Those beyond the radius maintain remote status unless their roles are specifically classified as On Site or Hybrid.The Offsite Local category will be discontinued, with transition periods ranging from 3 to 24 months depending on location.All remote work exceptions and future remote hires now require executive-level approval.

Multiple EA employees speaking anonymously to IGN expressed frustration and anxiety about the policy changes. Concerns included extended commutes, childcare complications, and medical accommodations previously supported by remote work. Employees classified as remote voiced uncertainty about their job security if unable or unwilling to relocate. Two sources indicated that existing remote work exemptions would expire within 3-24 months per Miele's announcement.

While remote work became standard across the gaming industry during COVID-19 lockdowns, many companies including EA initially embraced it as a lasting solution. Numerous employees relocated to more affordable areas, anticipating permanent remote arrangements.

This move follows similar return-to-office mandates at other gaming giants like Rockstar, Ubisoft, and Activision Blizzard, which have generated workforce dissatisfaction and attrition. The industry-wide shift appears to be accelerating, with EA joining the trend toward office-centric operations.

The policy announcement follows EA's recent workforce reductions, including approximately 300 layoffs company-wide, BioWare staff cuts earlier this year, and the elimination of 670 positions last year.

IGN has contacted EA for additional comment.

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