Back to the Top News Newsfeed

EA, NFL extend exclusive partnership that tightens 'Madden' grip on video game market

Gamers longing to get back to the days when there was fierce competition in the NFL video game market will have to keep on waiting.

That’s because on Thursday, NFL team owners unanimously approved an extension on Electronic Arts’ exclusive rights to publish simulation-style NFL video games through its popular “Madden” franchise. The deal goes to at least 2025, a source confirmed to Yahoo Sports, and will potentially extend through 2026 if revenue markers are hit.

“Our presence in the video game market is very important,” said Brian Rolapp, the NFL’s chief media and business officer. “It’s important to our fans — our fans enjoy it.