EA Cancels Black Panther Game, Shuts Down Cliffhanger Studios

Electronic Arts has officially cancelled its upcoming Black Panther video game and shuttered its developer, Cliffhanger Studios, as part of a broader internal restructuring. The decision, announced via an internal memo obtained by IGN’s Rebekah Valentine, was communicated to staff by EA Entertainment president Laura Miele.

In the memo, Miele acknowledged the weight of the decision, stating, “These choices are never easy. They involve colleagues and friends we've built lasting relationships with.” She added that the company is actively working to transition impacted employees into other roles within EA. However, the extent to which those efforts will succeed remains uncertain.

The cancellation reflects a strategic pivot for EA, with Miele noting that the company is redirecting its focus toward projects with greater potential for growth. “It’s about honing our efforts and investing creative energy where it counts most,” she explained.

While EA did not disclose the number of employees affected by the closure, sources suggest the layoffs are fewer than the 300 roles cut earlier this year. However, precise figures remain unclear. Staff from both the mobile and central divisions are reportedly impacted by this latest wave of job cuts, marking EA’s third round of layoffs in 2025.

The Black Panther project had only been officially confirmed in 2023, and specific details about its gameplay and development remained scarce. What little was known indicated the title would have been a narrative-driven, third-person, single-player experience. The game was one of three Marvel-based titles included in EA’s partnership with the comic book giant, alongside a still-in-development Iron Man title and an undisclosed third game.

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Marvel has yet to issue a statement in response to the cancellation.

This latest development adds to the growing list of industry-wide layoffs seen this year. As of late May 2025, nearly 2,300 roles have been eliminated across various gaming companies, with EA’s continued downsizing likely to push that number beyond 2,500 in the coming weeks. The closure of Cliffhanger Studios underscores the volatility in the gaming sector as major publishers reassess their priorities amid shifting market dynamics.