College sports video games are making a strong comeback, and it appears they`re here to stay. Shortly after the successful launch of College Football 26, EA Sports subtly hinted at the development of a new college basketball title. The proven demand for the college sports genre, evidenced by College Football 26`s performance, clearly motivates EA Sports to further invest in this market segment.
While an official teaser image is the only concrete detail from EA, various leaks and reports have emerged, providing a clearer picture of what to anticipate from the upcoming game. Below, we`ve compiled everything currently known about EA Sports` next college basketball game.
When Will The New College Basketball Game Be Released?
As of now, EA Sports has not made any official announcement regarding a specific release window or the precise title for their new college basketball game. However, a report from Matt Brown at Extra Points suggests EA Sports is targeting a 2028 release. This timeline aligns with the development cycle observed for the College Football series, where College Football 25 was released several years after its initial announcement.
It`s important to note that this 2028 target is not yet official and remains subject to potential delays, which could push the release date back a year or two. Consequently, the game could be titled “College Basketball 29” or even “30,” should EA follow the established naming conventions across the sports game genre.
Who Is Developing College Basketball?
EA Sports is confirmed as the primary developer and publisher behind this new college basketball game. Interestingly, 2K Sports also released a parallel teaser, signaling their own entry into the college basketball gaming space. A subsequent report further confirmed that 2K is indeed developing a standalone college basketball title, which would mark their first since “College Hoops 2K8” in 2007.
What Will Be Included In The New College Basketball Game?
EA`s initial proposal for the new college basketball game reportedly included plans to feature every NCAA men`s and women`s Division 1 basketball team. This suggests players should be able to control any of these college teams. However, Matt Brown`s report indicates that inclusion is contingent upon individual teams accepting the request, meaning some might opt out.
Beyond team rosters, the upcoming college basketball game is expected to incorporate many popular features found in College Football 25 and 26. This likely includes staple modes such as Road to Glory, Dynasty mode, and Ultimate Team. Given EA is anticipated to have three years for development, it`s reasonable to assume the new college basketball title will share significant similarities with the College Football series in terms of features, graphical fidelity, and supported platforms.
When Was The Last College Basketball Game Released?
The announcement of a new college basketball game came as a pleasant surprise to the community, considering the long hiatus since the last installments. EA Sports` last game in the series was “NCAA Basketball 10,” released in 2009. 2K Sports also had a college basketball series that concluded in 2007 with “College Hoops 2K8.”
Both franchises ceased operations years ago for various reasons, including legal complications involving the NCAA. It`s worth noting that EA`s new College Football series does not utilize the NCAA name, and similar non-involvement from the NCAA is anticipated for the upcoming basketball titles from both EA and 2K. The sustained success of College Football 25 and 26 signals a robust return for the college sports gaming market. EA Sports, and potentially 2K, aim to capitalize on this revitalization, though fans will need to await a few more years for concrete releases.