2K Games will once again develop NFL games but there's a catch.
The NFL and 2K have confirmed that the games in development will be non-simulation football games, significantly differing from EA’s NFL Madden franchise. 2K’s NFL games are likely to be available in 2021.
~David Ismailer, president of 2KThe NFL is one of the most successful sports brands in the world, known for creating incredible entertainment for fans. We’re thrilled to be back in business with the NFL in a partnership that will span multiple video games centered on fun, approachable and social experiences.
NFL Madden‘s EA released a statement declaring it is the “exclusive publisher of NFL simulation games.” and that its partnership with the NFL and the NFL Players Association “remains unchanged.”.It’s exciting to bring together 2K’s expertise in creating award-winning sports games with the NFL’s renowned status as a world-class entertainment and sports organization.
~EA’s statementOur agreements have always allowed for non-exclusive development of non-simulation games on various platforms. Our commitment to NFL fans, which spans almost 30 years, has never been stronger, and we’re having our biggest year yet.
2K's last NFL game was ESPN NFL 2K5 back in 2004 before EA signing an exclusive deal with NFL for 2005 and on.Madden NFL 20 is the most successful game ever in the franchise, and new modes like Superstar KO and our Madden NFL esports broadcasts are growing the fan base. We’ll be building on that momentum with more new and different experiences, on more platforms and with new ways to play, in the years to come.