Forgot password
Enter the email address you used when you joined and we'll send you instructions to reset your password.
If you used Apple or Google to create your account, this process will create a password for your existing account.
This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.
Reset password instructions sent. If you have an account with us, you will receive an email within a few minutes.
Something went wrong. Try again or contact support if the problem persists.
Electronic Arts EA Origin Steam

Star Wars Battlefront 2 wipes $3.1 billion from EA’s stock value

This article is over 6 years old and may contain outdated information

We always hear gamers say, vote with your wallets but it’s rare you see the impact. This time the Star Wars Battlefront 2 backlash against loot boxes from gamers has had a real impact on EA.

Recommended Videos

According to CNBC, $3.1 billion of shareholder value has been wiped with EA’s stock having dropped 8.5% in the past month. With sales of the game lower than expected, Analysts have become increasingly concerned.

Writing to his clients, Stifel analyst Drew Crum wrote,  “We were underwhelmed by sell-through for Star Wars: Battlefront II (EA) over the Black Friday weekend, which follows a controversial launch for the game.”

Cowen’s Doug Creutz also alerted clients saying, “We think the time has come for the industry to collectively establish a set of standards for MTX implementation, both to repair damaged player perceptions and avoid the threat of regulation.”

Despite the backlash, CNBC also points out that EA’s shares are up 39 percent year to date because there is “anticipation of future profits stream from micro-transactions”.

The battle against loot box practices is only beginning and unless gamers continue to boycott games with mechanics that are pay to win, or could be considered gambling, nothing will change. Yesterday we saw the formation of the NCGP to tackle “unscrupulous videogame companies” but it’s not entirely clear what their mission is and who they represent.

For now, the only way to encourage change is by voting with your wallet. Star Wars Battlefront 2 was just the first step.


PC Invasion is supported by our audience. When you purchase through links on our site, we may earn a small affiliate commission. Learn more about our Affiliate Policy
Author
Image of Paul Younger
Paul Younger
Founder and Editor of PC Invasion. Founder of the world's first gaming cafe and Veteran PC gamer of over 22 years.