College sports video games are making a significant comeback, and it appears they are here to stay. Following the launch of College Football 26, EA Sports subtly hinted at the approval of a new college basketball game. The positive reception of College Football 26 underscores substantial market demand for this niche within sports gaming, prompting EA Sports to further invest in this sector.
Although the teaser image remains the sole official announcement, various leaks and additional details have surfaced, offering a clearer understanding of what the upcoming title might entail. Here`s a summary of all known information regarding EA Sports` new college basketball game.
When will the new College Basketball game be released?
Currently, EA Sports has not provided any official statements or announcements concerning the prospective release timeframe for their new college basketball title. Consequently, the specific year that will feature in the game`s official title remains unknown.
Nevertheless, a report by Matt Brown indicates that EA Sports is reportedly targeting a 2028 release. This timeframe aligns with the development cycle observed for the College Football series, which also took several years from its initial announcement to the release of College Football 25.
Naturally, without official confirmation, the 2028 release window should not be considered definite. Production delays are always possible, potentially postponing the launch by a year or two. While the game could ultimately be titled College Basketball 30, EA Sports appears to be aiming for College Basketball 29, assuming they maintain consistent naming conventions within their sports game lineup.
Who is developing College Basketball?
As noted earlier, EA Sports serves as the primary developer and publisher for this upcoming college basketball game. Yet, they may not be the sole contender in this market; 2K Sports also issued a teaser, coinciding with EA`s announcement, indicating their own venture into the genre. Later reports confirmed that 2K is developing its standalone college basketball title, marking their first such release since College Hoops 2K8 in 2007.
What`s going to be included in the new College Basketball?
EA`s initial proposal for the new college basketball game reportedly included intentions to incorporate every NCAA men`s and women`s basketball team. This suggests players could choose to compete as any Division 1 team within the collegiate structure. However, Matt Brown`s insights indicate that individual teams must still agree to their inclusion, leaving open the possibility of some teams declining participation.
Beyond team inclusion, it is anticipated that the new college basketball game will feature many elements present in College Football 25 and 26. This would encompass modes like Road to Glory, Dynasty, and Ultimate Team. With an apparent three-year development cycle, it`s reasonable to expect the new college basketball title to mirror College Football closely in terms of features, visual quality, and supported platforms.
When was the last College Basketball game?
The revelation of a new college basketball game was somewhat unexpected by the gaming community, primarily due to the considerable hiatus since the last iteration. EA Sports` previous contribution to the series was NCAA Basketball 10 in 2009. Similarly, 2K Sports concluded its college basketball franchise in 2007 with College Hoops 2K8.
Both franchises ceased production years ago, stemming from various factors, notably legal disputes involving the NCAA. EA`s renewed College Football series omits the NCAA designation, and it is widely anticipated that the NCAA will similarly remain uninvolved with the forthcoming college basketball titles from both EA and 2K.
The resurgence of the college sports game market, driven by the success of College Football 25 and 26, presents a significant opportunity. Both EA Sports and potentially 2K are poised to leverage this renewed interest, though tangible results are still a few years away.