Electronic Arts (EA), the maker of popular franchises like The Sims, Battlefield, and the former FIFA series now rebranded as EA Sports FC, has agreed to be taken private in a historic $55 billion acquisition. A consortium led by Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund (PIF), Silver Lake, and Jared Kushner’s Affinity Partners will acquire 100% of the company, with EA shareholders receiving $210 per share in cash which represents a 25% premium over the recent trading price.

This deal marks the largest leveraged buyout of a public company in history and shows how powerful private capital is reshaping the gaming industry. With major funds and investors pooling together, the acquisition underscores how games are no longer just entertainment but global assets that attract serious financial influence.

For EA, being taken private means fewer pressures from public markets and quarterly earnings cycles. This could give the company room to take creative risks, explore new technologies, and develop long-term strategies. At the same time the deal carries a $20 billion debt load which could spark operational changes or restructuring.

Observers note that private ownership often brings sharper focus on profitability and return on investment. While leadership under CEO Andrew Wilson is expected to continue, the direction of EA’s portfolio from live service titles to major franchises like EA Sports FC may be guided more by investor priorities than shareholder consensus.

As the deal moves forward, expected to close by 2026 or 2027, it represents a pivotal moment for gaming. It highlights the increasing role of private equity and sovereign funds in shaping the future of interactive entertainment, a future where financial strategy is just as important as creativity.