In a recent interview, Hazelight's Josef Fares defended EA, stating the company often receives unwarranted negativity compared to other publishers. Fares emphasized the positive and collaborative relationship his studio has with EA, showcasing his belief that all publishers face challenges. He suggested that the community’s disdain for EA primarily stems from its controversial acquisition talks involving significant stakeholders, particularly in light of the concern over human rights records associated with potential majority ownership by the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. Fares maintains that despite EA's flaws, the teams he interacts with are genuinely passionate about gaming. Hazelight's latest title, Split Fiction, has achieved remarkable success, selling over 2 million copies in its first week and setting records for local co-op games.

What challenges does EA face in the gaming industry?

EA faces significant scrutiny due to its controversial business practices and recent acquisition proposals, particularly concerning human rights issues linked to foreign investments. The company's history of microtransactions and game development missteps have also contributed to its negative reputation among gamers, making it a focal point for criticism in the gaming community. Despite this, partners like Hazelight continue to have a positive collaborative experience.

Split Fiction, the latest co-op game from Hazelight Studios, has garnered critical acclaim for its innovative gameplay and engaging narrative. The game not only broke sales records but also highlighted the appeal of cooperative gaming experiences in today's market. Additionally, a film adaptation featuring Sydney Sweeney is in the works, further expanding the franchise's reach beyond gaming. Hazelight Studios is known for creating unique multiplayer experiences, with previous titles like A Way Out and It Takes Two also emphasizing teamwork and storytelling.