EA cancels Black Panther game, shutters Cliffhanger Games

What’s going on at EA?

Electronic Arts is undergoing another internal restructuring – cancelling its Black Panther game, closing Seattle-based Cliffhanger Games, and initiating new layoffs – according to an internal memo obtained by IGN.

The decision follows a string of cutbacks at EA, including the March cancellation of a Titanfall project and the layoff of 300–400 developers across Respawn and other EA teams.

• EA has not disclosed how many employees were let go in this latest wave, but reports suggest the number is smaller than April’s cuts.
• Cliffhanger Games, founded in 2023 and led by ex-Monolith VP Kevin Stephens, was built specifically to develop a single-player, narrative-driven Black Panther title in partnership with Marvel Games.

Why it matters

The cancellation marks a rapid reversal for the Black Panther project, which was unveiled with fanfare as part of EA’s investment in Marvel IPs.

Cliffhanger was one of EA’s newer studios aimed at delivering prestige single-player experiences — a strategic counterweight to the company’s long-time focus on live-service titles.

Its closure signals EA’s shifting priorities under a tightened portfolio strategy.

• SEE ALSO: Layoffs in Canada: Find out which employers are slashing staff

Official statement

In a company-wide email, EA Entertainment president Laura Miele said the decision was made to “sharpen our focus and put our creative energy behind the most significant growth opportunities.”

Despite layoffs, EA’s headcount has grown: Game File reports EA had 800 more employees in March 2025 than the same time last year, due to aggressive hiring in other departments.

Next steps for EA employees

If you’re fired or let go from EA, understanding your legal rights is crucial.

Non-unionized employees in Canada are entitled to severance pay. The amount you’re owed is based on a variety of factors, including your role, tenure, age, and ability to find similar work.

WATCH: Employment lawyer Lior Samfiru delves into severance pay on an episode of the Employment Law Show.

Here’s what you need to know:

• Compensation: Severance packages, which can be as much as 24 months’ pay, may include salary, bonuses, commissions, and other forms of compensation. Use our firm’s free Severance Pay Calculator to better understand your entitlements.
• Deadlines: You generally have up to two years from the date of your termination to review and negotiate severance offers.
• Action steps: Consult an employment lawyer at Samfiru Tumarkin LLP to ensure your severance package is fair and aligns with Canadian employment laws.

Lost your job at EA? Contact us

If you’ve been fired or let go from EA, the experienced employment law team at Samfiru Tumarkin LLP can help.

Our lawyers in Ontario, Alberta, and B.C. have helped tens of thousands of non-unionized individuals resolve their workplace issues.

Call us today at 1-855-821-5900 or request a consultation online.

Disclaimer: The materials above are provided as general information about the rights of non-unionized employees in Canada. It is not specific to any one company and SHOULD NOT be read as suggesting any improper conduct on the part of any specific employer, or a relationship between Samfiru Tumarkin LLP and a specific employer.