gaming

Saudi fund completes EA buyout, employees fear content restrictions

The Public Investment Fund of Saudi Arabia closed its purchase of Electronic Arts earlier this month, the largest leveraged buyout in private equity history. Many current and former EA employees expect tighter control over which games get approved and worry titles that emphasize diversity and LGBTQ+ themes — such as The Sims — could face restrictions. EA has told staff its "cultural values" will remain under Saudi ownership, but employees say the takeover could be used to polish Saudi Arabia's international image and that projects not aligned with the government's preferences may not be greenlit.

• The Public Investment Fund's acquisition of Electronic Arts closed earlier this month and is the largest leveraged buyout in private equity history.
• Current and former EA employees expect stricter oversight of game content and specifically fear limits on games that center on diversity and LGBTQ+ representation, with The Sims cited.
• EA reassured staff that its "cultural values" will remain under Saudi ownership, but many employees remain skeptical and describe the buyout as potential sportswashing to improve Saudi Arabia's image.
• Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman chairs the PIF and has publicly endorsed using sportswashing to boost GDP; employees predict projects that don't align with Saudi government preferences may not be approved.