Here’s the Top 5 Highlights From EA’s Gamescom 2015 Briefing

EA Lineup

EA has been on a roll lately with all of the stunning titles it has been showing off throughout the year, not to mention the fact that they also hold the Star Wars games license. The company that only a few years ago couldn’t make anyone happy has committed themselves to providing some of the best gaming experiences out there. During their Gamescom 2015 briefing, they didn’t offer any new titles, but they did show amazing new footage of some really huge (and one tiny, yet extraordinarily adorable) games.

Titles like Mirror’s Edge Catalyst showed off dynamic footage of Faith going from stealth to an all out race to safety. Need for Speed brought back the customization and player choice that fans of the series have been clamoring for. Unravel showed that EA has a heart with its adorable, emotion tugging gameplay. And let us not forget the sports juggernaut that is FIFA 16. Showing off their new FIFA Ultimate Draft (FUT), it’s clear that EA is situated to provide fans all around the world with even more of what they love. 

Focus on Freedom

Throughout the EA briefing, there was one particular theme that touched every game shown off: freedom. EA is looking to deliver experiences that offer extensive player choice. You will be able to play the way you see fit, and create memories that are neither scripted, or held back within the worlds. Whether your wish is to run across rooftops while you revel in the exhilarating parkour, or to partake in dogfights over some of Star Wars‘ greatest battles, the option will be given to you.

It’s a sign that EA has not only been listening, but is looking to reward their player base and provide worthwhile, memorable experiences. 

Concepts

There was one moment during EA’s presentation where they didn’t exactly show games, at least not games we’ve heard of yet. They showcased a series of concepts in the works at their many studios across the world – concepts that teased the imagination of gamers, and left many wondering what could possibly be in store for the future. It was a quick peek, but one that opened up an entire universe of opportunities.

It’s pretty odd to say, but some of the best stuff seen at Gamescom this year were those few images that have yet to receive even a name. The fact that some of these may never come to fruition is a sad reality, but the beauty of what was displayed on that screen was truly awe-inspiring, and gives hope for EA’s future. 

Battlefront Closes with Darth Vader

There was no doubt that Star Wars: Battlefront was going to be present during EA’s Gamescom briefing. They would have been foolish to not bring one of this year’s most highly anticipated triple-A games to the stage.

They managed to impress fans even more with their showing when they showed off an entirely new map, as well as the new Fighter Squadron game mode. They showcased the vision for the game they were trying to build and impressed everyone in attendance. But there was one thing that stood out even more than the promise of intense dogfights, and that thing was none other than Darth Vader.

At the very end of their trailer you see a rebel soldier aim his weapon at Darth Vader and begin to blast away, but it is all for naught. Vader slowly makes his way towards the unlucky individual while deflecting beams with his glowing lightsaber. It all ends when he finally closes the distance, and with a swing of his deadly weapon, the screen goes dark. It was an intense scene, one that stuck with many. 

Unravel Steals the Show Once More

Back at E3, Martin Sahlin, creative director at Coldwood, took to the stage with Yarny, his small friend made out of… well, yarn. He then showed off Unravel, a game about love and discovery. And you know what? It captured everyone’s heart and made this unknown director the star of the entire week.

Well, they returned to the EA stage at Gamescom this year and made magic once more. This time, Sahlin’s endearing thoughts on what games can (and are proving to) be and his limitless gratitude to the gaming community put him right back in the spotlight.

Then there was the gameplay, which ended with Yarny holding a yarn fish as he cuddled it to his chest. You really can’t get any more adorable than that.

EA didn’t bring much in the way of new, but they still had a seriously strong showing. New tidbits, stunning gameplay, and all the right words have us even more excited for their upcoming releases. Are you excited for what EA has in store for gamers? What game stood out most to you. Feel free to share your thoughts in the comments below.