EA Acquires Digital Illusions

Electronic Arts announced today that it has acquired Digital Illusions CE (DICE), developers of the popular Battlefield franchise, as a fully integrated EA Studio.

This move culminates a series of attempts on the part of EA to fully bring DICE into the fold beginning with a takeover move in late 2004 that was rejected by shareholders despite the backing of the DICE board. In 2005, after gaining a controlling stake in the company, EA was finally able to complete its purchase of the developer for $8.80/share. Today's announcement is the final step in the process to make DICE an EA Studio.

Paul Lee, President of EA's Worldwide Studios, said of the acquisition, "EA is thrilled to officially welcome this team of incredibly talented people and a globally recognized game franchise."

As part of the deal, current DICE CEO, Patrick Söderlund, will become an EA Studio General Manager and maintain responsibility for the DICE studio.