Electronic Arts has informed its staff that it is permanently ending its remote work policies and requiring all employees to return to the office full-time.

In an email to employees reviewed by IGN, CEO Andrew Wilson stated that in-person collaboration fosters a "dynamic energy that drives creativity, innovation, and connection, often leading to unexpected breakthroughs and exceptional player experiences." He broadly defined the new "hybrid work" policy as a "minimum of three days per week in your assigned office," adding that "offsite local roles" will be gradually eliminated.

In a follow-up email from EA Entertainment president Laura Miele, also seen by IGN, she provided further details, explaining that the company is shifting from a "decentralized approach to a globally consistent, enterprise-wide work model":

Several EA employees speaking anonymously to IGN expressed frustration and confusion, with some sharing concerns about suddenly facing hours-long commutes or citing childcare needs and medical conditions that benefited from remote work. Those classified as remote workers outside the 30-mile radius worried about job security if they are unable or unwilling to relocate nearer to an office long-term. Two sources explained that, according to Miele’s breakdown, existing remote workers will see their exemptions from office work phased out over the next 3 to 24 months.

Although remote work has long been common in the video game industry, it became particularly widespread during and after the 2020 COVID-19 pandemic, when lockdowns pushed many major studios to adopt it as a long-term solution. In the years since, numerous companies expanded their remote workforce, and many office-based employees moved to more affordable areas, believing remote arrangements were permanent.

However, other leading game companies have recently begun recalling employees to the office, causing frustration and, in some cases, staff departures as workers faced the difficult choice between relocating and keeping their jobs. Rockstar Games, Ubisoft, and Activision Blizzard have all faced internal and external criticism over these mandates. Nevertheless, the push for office returns continues to gain momentum, with more companies like EA opting to reinstate in-office requirements.

EA recently conducted company-wide layoffs affecting approximately 300 employees, following earlier cuts at BioWare this year and the elimination of around 670 roles last year.

IGN has contacted EA for additional comment.