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ESPN And Electronic Arts Sign 15-Year Deal

Posted by timothy on from the long-term-thinking dept.

acxr is wasted writes "Electronic Arts has dealt another blow to rival Sega by signing a 15-year agreement with ESPN, giving the publisher exclusive video game rights to ESPN branded material. EA has recently faced pressure from popular ESPN-branded Sega titles released at discount prices, prompting their recent deal with the NFL, and failed bid for the NBA."

3 of 332 comments (clear)

  1. Ehh by damicatz · · Score: 5, Interesting

    Sounds like they are using Microsoft-esque tatics now. How long will it be before the DOJ gets on their case? Oh well, this doesn't change my stance on EA. They haven't produced a decent game in over 5 years.

  2. Well this is a big poke in the eye... by yuriismaster · · Score: 4, Interesting

    FTA: "'We don't anticipating changing anything significantly from what we are currently doing'... they will potentially include ESPN data, graphics and sportscasters" [Emphasis mine]

    Now cmon, if you plan to contract one of the largest names in sports news, then at least integrate it into the game. The only reason EA is buying the ESPN license apparently to use "ESPN properties as potential video games, including the "X Games" extreme athletics competitions, poker and even bass fishing."

    Wow, cause I want to spend 50 dollars on ESPN World Poker Tour $year.

  3. Unholy Trinity by tepples · · Score: 4, Interesting

    Not only that, but The Walt Disney Company owns ESPN. If you'll remember, Disney was behind the copyright term extension acts. This makes an Unholy Trinity of Disney, EA, and Microsoft (whose MSN network hosts ESPN's web site).