EA Levels Up With $55 Billion Buyout — Biggest Gaming Deal Ever [REPORT]

Electronic Arts — the studio behind Madden NFL, Battlefield and The Sims — just hit a new boss level.

On Monday (Sept. 29), the video game giant announced it agreed to be acquired in an all-cash deal worth $55 billion, which could become the largest private-equity buyout ever.

According to CNBC, EA shareholders are cashing in big with a $210 per share payout. No cheat codes needed — just money in the bank.

Who’s Got the Controller?

The buyers: Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund (PIF), Silver Lake, and Affinity Partners. PIF already owned nearly 10% of EA, but now they’re leveling up to majority power.

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Affinity CEO Jared Kushner (yes, that Jared Kushner) appeared in the press release to praise EA’s “bold vision for the future” and admit he’s still a gamer at heart. Somewhere, The Sims are rolling their pixelated eyes.

CEO Respawn

Despite the shake-up, EA’s current CEO Andrew Wilson isn’t going anywhere.

In a note to employees, he said he’s “excited to continue as CEO” and promised the new partners are “committed with conviction” to EA’s long-term vision.

Game of Billions

The deal — expected to close in fiscal 2027 — is already boosting EA’s stock. Shares jumped 15% Friday on rumors and another 5% Monday after the announcement.

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EA’s headquarters will reportedly remain in Redwood City, California, but the ownership game has officially changed forever.

So yes — The Sims will keep expanding, Madden will keep dropping every year, and a whole lot of investors just got a whole lot richer.