EA’s Upcoming Server Closures: A Shift in Gaming Landscape
As we draw near to January 2026, gamers are bracing for the upcoming server shutdowns announced by Electronic Arts (EA) for three popular titles, marking the end of an era for fans of these games. In an aggressive move to streamline their operations, the gaming giant has decided to permanently close servers for Anthem, The Sims Mobile, and NBA Live 19. These closures reflect a broader strategy that EA has undertaken amid mounting costs and a shifting market landscape.
The First Casualty: Anthem
Set to go offline on January 12, Anthem has been one of BioWare’s most notable failures since its launch in 2019. Despite initial hype, the multiplayer action RPG suffered from technical issues and received heavy criticism for its gameplay mechanics. BioWare halted further development in 2021, ending hopes for a significant overhaul of the game that was meant to revitalize player interest. With its delisting from digital storefronts in August 2025 and the impending server shutdown, EA has confirmed that Anthem was built as an online-only experience, making the game unplayable once its servers cease operation.
With the shutdown approaching, many dedicated fans are not ready to say goodbye. Some have begun exploring unofficial server options to preserve the game experience, while also organizing final community events to celebrate what was once a highly anticipated title.
Mobile Gaming Takes a Hit: The Sims Mobile
Following closely behind, The Sims Mobile will close its servers on January 20 after operating for seven years. EA attempted to ease players’ sorrow by disabling all in-app purchases back in October 2025, allowing players to enjoy unlimited energy and unlock all premium content by January 6. This initiative aims to give players a last chance to experience everything the game has to offer before the final curtain falls.
Developed by Maxis, The Sims Mobile enjoyed a dedicated user base, making this closure particularly painful for fans who have invested time into the virtual lives and stories within the game.
Final Whistle for NBA Live 19
The last title to face the axe is NBA Live 19, set to end its online services on January 30. Released in 2018, it was positioned as the final entry in EA’s NBA series before the franchise was effectively shelved. This shutdown means that no basketball titles published by EA will have ongoing online services, leaving a substantial void in the gaming market for NBA fans.
The cancellation reflects not only declining player engagement but also rising server maintenance costs, along with expired licensing agreements with the NBA that further complicate the franchise’s prospects.
A Trend of Shutdowns at EA
These three closures are part of a larger pattern within EA, which has seen an aggressive wave of server terminations in 2025 alone. A staggering total of 23 games, including high-profile titles like FIFA 23 and racing game Grid, have already been shut down this year. While the lack of a detailed public explanation regarding the reasoning behind these specific shutdown decisions leaves many puzzled, industry analysts suggest that the growing costs of server maintenance and shifts in market dynamics play significant roles.
Adding to the financial context, EA recently reported a 1.3% decline in revenue to $7.46 billion for the fiscal year 2025, with net income falling by 12% to $1.12 billion. Such figures underscore the ongoing challenges faced by gaming companies in a rapidly evolving digital market.
Closing Thoughts on an Industry in Flux
As these server closures loom, they illustrate not just the individual fates of three titles but also reflect broader trends in the gaming industry. With an increasing focus on profitability and operational efficiencies, EA’s decisions signal a changing landscape for gamers dedicated to online experiences. Players are left to grapple with the realities of these closures, contemplating the ephemeral nature of digital gaming in an age where titles can go dark overnight, leaving memories but no physical trace.