EA has delayed the launch preview of its next Madden NFL installment as it gives way to the protests simultaneously happening right now all over the U.S.
EA Sports has recently released a statement informing its followers that launch preview ‘Madden NFL 21’ launch preview held back amid U.S. protests of Madden NFL 21 will be held back, as it shows solidarity to the protests seeking justice for the death of George Floyd.
The video of the untimely death of Floyd in the hands of the U.S. police officers sparked a major uproar, with many of the big names in the gaming industry making a statement as they support the Black Lives Matter protests.
EA Sports wants its players to focus on the bigger issue
In its announcement posted on Twitter, EA tells its avid players that “we’ll find another time to talk football with you. Because this is bigger than a game, bigger than sports, and needs all of us to stand together and commit to change.”
An official statement from EA SPORTS pic.twitter.com/MKdgJjvKJB
— Madden NFL 24 (@EAMaddenNFL) May 31, 2020
The event was supposed to give its fans the first look at Madden NFL 21 and most likely confirm this year’s featured NFL player as its official cover. ESPN notes that Baltimore Raven’s quarterback Lamar Jackson was hinted to be the face of the game this year.
So much more than a name…
First look coming soon #Madden21 pic.twitter.com/4GqcM6p6qS
— Madden NFL 24 (@EAMaddenNFL) May 24, 2020
Micky News previously reported that EA Play would happen this June 11. So far, no other announcement has been made, whether this event will be postponed as well.
Madden NFL 21 makers join Naughty Dog and others on the cause
It wasn’t just EA who publicly showed its support to the pressing issue that looms the U.S today. Sony and The Last of Us 2 makers, Naughty Dog, have expressed their solidarity as well on social media.
Naughty Dog even created a donation campaign that will support national and local organizations that are fighting against racism and injustice.
An excerpt of its announcement reads:
Now is the time for all to do our part and end anti-Black racism and violence. Many of us at Naughty Dog are donating to national and local organizations. Please consider donating yourself.
Sony even jumped in Naughty Dog’s campaign as the tech giant matches the donation sent to the TLOU 2 devs, revealed by Naughty Dog’s creative director Neil Druckmann.
Thank you, PlayStation, for matching donations. #BlackLivesMatter https://t.co/Tl0m2Q0uXK pic.twitter.com/RHbUAHjfFy
— Neil Druckmann (@Neil_Druckmann) June 1, 2020
Microsoft and Riot Games have also expressed their sympathizing sentiments, as they also stand with the protests.
Other events penned for June are expected to be delayed, and those that are scheduled for the following months might also fear delay depending on the circumstances brought by the protests.
Featured image courtesy of IGN/YouTube Screenshot