News Post

Don't Expect EA Access on the PS4 Anytime Soon

08:53 AM - August 17, 2015 by RaychelSnr

During last week's Gamescom convention, GameSpot interviewed Electronic Arts' chief operating officer Peter Moore. For sports fans (especially those owning a PlayStation 4), the most interesting part of this discussion came when Moore was asked if Electronic Arts had any plans for bringing the surprisingly successful EA Access program to Sony's system.

Quote:


	"Let's switch to EA Access, which a lot of people think offers a good deal. Peter Moore: I think it offers a great deal. Do you still want to see EA Access on PlayStation 4? Peter Moore: Doesn't matter. It's on Xbox One, and those customers love it. We have analytics on everything these days, and subscriber satisfaction rates are through the roof. EA Access customers get to play more, because of the Vault, they get to play early, ahead of general release date, and they get to pay less because of the discounts it offers. So, consumers love it. It's doing well. If you expand to another console, business will be even better, right? Peter Moore: But it's not. It's on Xbox One. I'm curious about what you're saying. Is this part of a deal with Microsoft now? Peter Moore: It's on Xbox One- [Interrupting] Do you want to talk about this? Peter Moore: Well Sony talked about it, ask them [laughs]. There's not much left for me to say."

Moore's last line is a reference to Game Informer's infamous quote from an anonymous Sony representative who claimed that, "We evaluated the EA Access subscription offering and decided that it does not bring the kind of value PlayStation customers have come to expect. We don�t think asking our fans to pay an additional $5 a month for this EA-specific program represents good value to the PlayStation gamer."

The "value" of a $5-per-month subscription ($30 for the year) was certainly questionable when Sony made its original statement on July 30, 2014. But as EA's downloadable game vault has been expanded to include the entire EA Sports catalog, and the company's pre-release trial period has been extended to 10 hours, EA Access has arguably become a better value for sports gamers than Sony's own PlayStation Plus program.

Sony's PlayStation 4 was the clear choice of a new generation when it and the Xbox One debuted during 2013's holiday shopping season. But since most sports titles look and play similarly on each console, and Xbox One owners finally have a good hardball option in Super Mega Baseball, I have mostly run out of reasons why I would recommend a PlayStation 4 over an Xbox One to someone looking for the best place to play console sports games (sup, Rocket League).

Member Comments

# 1 scottyp180 @ 08/17/15 09:29 AM

I still can't believe Sony passed on this and their reasoning simply made no sense. It should be the customer that decides if they feel EA Access is a good value, which it clearly is. If I buy 1 of EA's sports game from last year used I'm still going pay over $20 whereas I can pay $30 for a year of EA Access and get old of last year's sports titles as well as Dragon Age, Titanfall, and a few other titles (including ones that will be added to the vault at a later time).

Sony allowing this on PS4 would also take away an advantage on Xboxone. I don't know if any people are going to buy an Xboxone because of EA Access but it is a nice incentive that PS4 doesn't have. If anything EA Access would bring more value to PS4 oppose to offering poor value.

# 2 scottyp180 @ 08/17/15 09:34 AM

Oh I also forgot to mention the 10 hour trials which, as far as I know, offer access to the entire game not just a short game and select games like a typical demo. I'm many cases this is the only option to try games before they release because demos are becoming infrequent.

# 3 elgreazy1 @ 08/17/15 10:12 AM

EA Access was one of the final sticking points when it came to choosing a XBO vs PS4. It made it easy for me to transition into a new console without having to invest in a bunch of games up front along with the cost of a console ( + accessories + yearly online subscription).

$30/year for a full library of quality games is a great deal and the library itself has a lot of variety: sports, shooters, fighters, RPGs, puzzle, etc. It really changed a lot of my stances on gaming before: I like being able to download new games and have now moved away from disc copies towards digital downloads. I tried out Madden, FIFA, & NHL and will buy the 2016 versions of these after not having purchased an EA Sports game in 5+ years. I also get Madden ahead of time, this year, which is ironic because my brother is a Madden-head and has to wait until release date days later.

# 4 Cowboy008 @ 08/17/15 10:31 AM

That's disappointing. It would be great if EA Access came to the PS4.

# 5 ai2k2 @ 08/17/15 11:24 AM

The ball is in Sony's court. It's never too late. They're also probably just waiting for proper timing. If it's one thing Sony seems to have this gen it's a plan...

# 6 kenchun24 @ 08/17/15 11:32 AM

Nah I'm with Sony (and I only play Xbox360 & PS3 still) screw EA shenanigan #199,876...demo's should be free like they always were. Silly kids with free access to their parents debit card keep supporting these DLC schemes that EA started years ago with Madden 10. Also the Mass Effect 3 backlash led via Total Biscuit's rant on the whole exploitative DLC scheme from crappy publishers like EA .

# 7 snc237 @ 08/17/15 11:32 AM

Wow would of been devistated if access went to ps4 and not Xbox. Having access is really one of the Xboxs greatest assets. Just an amazing value.

# 8 oldman @ 08/17/15 11:40 AM

I agree that Sony is missing the boat on EA Access, but to compare Super Mega Baseball to the Show? Way off base.

# 9 Picci @ 08/17/15 11:55 AM

I'm glad people find EA Access worth it and enjoy its benefits. But for me? No way.

EA Access launched Aug 11, 2014. For a yearly subscription of $30 (which would be the smart move) you get exclusive rights to 8 games. Mainly, EA sports lineup. Since then, 6 additional games have been added to the vault. Glancing at the list now, Dragon Age Inquisition would be most likely a good get since I've never had it. All the other games in the vault are just not worth it especially with the new sports lineup coming up now for football, soccer, hockey, and basketball. But guess what? It's that time again for that $30 renewal fee. EA smartly started this campaign at the best time for gamers to fork over money just when all their new sports games are about to hit the market. And Dragon Inquisition for $30 as a get now? Again, no thank you.

EA giving gamers a choice? They didn't release a FIFA World Cup version for next generation because they felt it wasn't worth it. They've taken CPU vs CPU control out of Madden because? They've taken player editing out of NBA Live because?

Now I will give credit when credit is due. Madden was a pleasant surprise last year and I'm excited for it this year. Disappointed with latest news on Live but seeing progress. They gave PS3 gamers a huge sale for games such as Mass Effect Trilogy for $4.99 which was a sensational price.

Still, next year in August when you're ready fork over $30 for renewel. Lets hope that besides the EA sports games, Star Wars, Need For Speed, Battlefield, and Mirrors Edge all be included too.

# 10 thaSLAB @ 08/17/15 12:16 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by oldman


	I agree that Sony is missing the boat on EA Access, but to compare Super Mega Baseball to the Show? Way off base.

Yeah, agreed. I love some SMB, but The Show is still a big factor in sports gaming offerings. And then, as mentioned, Rocket League is no slouch either!

That said, I'll probably get EA Access for my XB1 when it arrives next month, since it is a way to build my library on the console. Other than that, I will be using it mainly for XB exclusives.

As for the article, Peter Moore seems a little salty, lol.

# 11 snc237 @ 08/17/15 12:17 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Picci


	I'm glad people find EA Access worth it and enjoy its benefits. But for me? No way. EA Access launched Aug 11, 2014. For a yearly subscription of $30 (which would be the smart move) you get exclusive rights to 8 games. Mainly, EA sports lineup. Since then, 6 additional games have been added to the vault. Glancing at the list now, Dragon Age Inquisition would be most likely a good get since I've never had it. All the other games in the vault are just not worth it especially with the new sports lineup coming up now for football, soccer, hockey, and basketball. But guess what? It's that time again for that $30 renewal fee. EA smartly started this campaign at the best time for gamers to fork over money just when all their new sports games are about to hit the market. And Dragon Inquisition for $30 as a get now? Again, no thank you. EA giving gamers a choice? They didn't release a FIFA World Cup version for next generation because they felt it wasn't worth it. They've taken CPU vs CPU control out of Madden because? They've taken player editing out of NBA Live because? Now I will give credit when credit is due. Madden was a pleasant surprise last year and I'm excited for it this year. Disappointed with latest news on Live but seeing progress. They gave PS3 gamers a huge sale for games such as Mass Effect Trilogy for $4.99 which was a sensational price. Still, next year in August when you're ready fork over $30 for renewel. Lets hope that besides the EA sports games, Star Wars, Need For Speed, Battlefield, and Mirrors Edge all be included too.

Well I buy madden and NHL ever year. With the 10 percent off that adds up to be 16 bucks. Over half of my subscription. I normally get fifa every second year, now I get it for free. I never bought battlefield hardlines cause I was enjoying battlefield 4 still. Soon I will get that for free. Plus i geto play myasden and NHL early (I use to have season tocket) spit you ask me you get well over 30 bucks of value

# 12 scottyp180 @ 08/17/15 12:23 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Picci


	I'm glad people find EA Access worth it and enjoy its benefits. But for me? No way. EA Access launched Aug 11, 2014. For a yearly subscription of $30 (which would be the smart move) you get exclusive rights to 8 games. Mainly, EA sports lineup. Since then, 6 additional games have been added to the vault. Glancing at the list now, Dragon Age Inquisition would be most likely a good get since I've never had it. All the other games in the vault are just not worth it especially with the new sports lineup coming up now for football, soccer, hockey, and basketball. But guess what? It's that time again for that $30 renewal fee. EA smartly started this campaign at the best time for gamers to fork over money just when all their new sports games are about to hit the market. And Dragon Inquisition for $30 as a get now? Again, no thank you. EA giving gamers a choice? They didn't release a FIFA World Cup version for next generation because they felt it wasn't worth it. They've taken CPU vs CPU control out of Madden because? They've taken player editing out of NBA Live because? Now I will give credit when credit is due. Madden was a pleasant surprise last year and I'm excited for it this year. Disappointed with latest news on Live but seeing progress. They gave PS3 gamers a huge sale for games such as Mass Effect Trilogy for $4.99 which was a sensational price. Still, next year in August when you're ready fork over $30 for renewel. Lets hope that besides the EA sports games, Star Wars, Need For Speed, Battlefield, and Mirrors Edge all be included too.

I do agree with most of what you said except that the 15 sports lineup was added months ago. I think Madden 15 was added to the vault in either January or February (I remember being either during the playoffs or close to the superbowl). So at this point in the year the sports lineup is kind of dated but when they were actually added to the vault the 16 sports titles we're months away from release.

This is also a tremendous deal for people that don't buy sports titles yearly, especially new comers that don't want to spend $60 for 1 game. $30 and you get to play the entire 15 EA Sports lineup plus other quality titles (which if you bought individually would still run you at least $15 the cheapest).

To me however the main issue is choice. To you EA Access isn't worth it, that's fine. And I don't mean to preach you on why it is a great value. But the fact that Sony took the choice out of the hands of it's customers is poor business practice.

# 13 Picci @ 08/17/15 12:24 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by snc237


	Well I buy madden and NHL ever year. With the 10 percent off that adds up to be 16 bucks. Over half of my subscription. I normally get fifa every second year, now I get it for free. I never bought battlefield hardlines cause I was enjoying battlefield 4 still. Soon I will get that for free. Plus i geto play myasden and NHL early (I use to have season tocket) spit you ask me you get well over 30 bucks of value

And that's great. I'm happy for you. And I got the chance to get Mass Effect Trilogy for $4.99 which I wanted and didn't have to pay an annual fee of $30.

# 14 Picci @ 08/17/15 12:34 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by scottyp180


	I do agree with most of what you said except that the 15 sports lineup was added months ago. I think Madden 15 was added to the vault in either January or February (I remember being either during the playoffs or close to the superbowl). So at this point in the year the sports lineup is kind of dated but when they were actually added to the vault the 16 sports titles we're months away from release. This is also a tremendous deal for people that don't buy sports titles yearly, especially new comers that don't want to spend $60 for 1 game. $30 and you get to play the entire 15 EA Sports lineup plus other quality titles (which if you bought individually would still run you at least $15 the cheapest). To me however the main issue is choice. To you EA Access isn't worth it, that's fine. And I don't mean to preach you on why it is a great value. But the fact that Sony took the choice out of the hands of it's customers is poor business practice.

I'm not disputing the fact that some will find value. To me, the value isn't there. I understand your thoughts about Sony but what about EA? They've taken away choices too! So we should reward them?

EA can easily set prices in the PS Store discounts and specials. Instead, they want a yearly fee for that benefit.
Whether its NHL, NBA, Madden, or FIFA.

# 15 bwright25 @ 08/17/15 12:52 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Picci


	I'm glad people find EA Access worth it and enjoy its benefits. But for me? No way. EA Access launched Aug 11, 2014. For a yearly subscription of $30 (which would be the smart move) you get exclusive rights to 8 games. Mainly, EA sports lineup. Since then, 6 additional games have been added to the vault. Glancing at the list now, Dragon Age Inquisition would be most likely a good get since I've never had it. All the other games in the vault are just not worth it especially with the new sports lineup coming up now for football, soccer, hockey, and basketball. But guess what? It's that time again for that $30 renewal fee. EA smartly started this campaign at the best time for gamers to fork over money just when all their new sports games are about to hit the market. And Dragon Inquisition for $30 as a get now? Again, no thank you. EA giving gamers a choice? They didn't release a FIFA World Cup version for next generation because they felt it wasn't worth it. They've taken CPU vs CPU control out of Madden because? They've taken player editing out of NBA Live because? Now I will give credit when credit is due. Madden was a pleasant surprise last year and I'm excited for it this year. Disappointed with latest news on Live but seeing progress. They gave PS3 gamers a huge sale for games such as Mass Effect Trilogy for $4.99 which was a sensational price. Still, next year in August when you're ready fork over $30 for renewel. Lets hope that besides the EA sports games, Star Wars, Need For Speed, Battlefield, and Mirrors Edge all be included too.

Ea ccess does offer non sports games too like Need for speed and both battlefields.

# 16 scottyp180 @ 08/17/15 12:52 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Picci


	I'm not disputing the fact that some will find value. To me, the value isn't there. I understand your thoughts about Sony but what about EA? They've taken away choices too! So we should reward them? EA can easily set prices in the PS Store discounts and specials. Instead, they want a yearly fee for that benefit. Whether its NHL, NBA, Madden, or FIFA.

They still give out sales too. I got UFC for about $10 on Xbox last year before it was on Access. I've seen other good deals on their games but I typically ignore them because I didn't have interest in the games, some of the game I already owned. Titanfall has been on sale for cheap prices as has Dragon Age (I believe I've seen it as low as $25). $5 for Mass Effect is a phenomenal price, I almost jumped on it myself, but we are also talking about a collection of games that are a couple years old and on older hardware. Who's to say we won't see similar deals on Xboxone and PS4 titles when the games are a year or two old?

# 17 Picci @ 08/17/15 01:12 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by bwright25


	Ea ccess does offer non sports games too like Need for speed and both battlefields.

Yes, I know. The point I'm making is that it will probably be at least a year, maybe longer until you see the yet to release Star Wars, NFS, and Battlefields game in the EA vault. Yet, you will fork over an additional $30 annual fee prior to getting access into the vault.

Quote:

Originally Posted by scottyp180


	$5 for Mass Effect is a phenomenal price, I almost jumped on it myself, but we are also talking about a collection of games that are a couple years old and on older hardware. Who's to say we won't see similar deals on Xboxone and PS4 titles when the games are a year or two old?

The Trilogy is worth $30-$40 on amazon for a console so the return is

And that's the point I'm making regarding deals on the XBone and PS4. EA sets the prices on specials and deals. Sony and Microsoft get a small piece of the action. EA can easily do this without charging people an annual fee.

# 18 scottyp180 @ 08/17/15 02:02 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Picci


	Yes, I know. The point I'm making is that it will probably be at least a year, maybe longer until you see the yet to release Star Wars, NFS, and Battlefields game in the EA vault. Yet, you will fork over an additional $30 annual fee prior to getting access into the vault. The Trilogy is worth $30-$40 on amazon for a console so the return is And that's the point I'm making regarding deals on the XBone and PS4. EA sets the prices on specials and deals. Sony and Microsoft get a small piece of the action. EA can easily do this without charging people an annual fee.

That trilogy set didn't come with all dlc did it?

# 19 Picci @ 08/17/15 02:19 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by scottyp180


	That trilogy set didn't come with all dlc did it?

Don't really know. Haven't played it yet. I do know that I had to install updates too, but is it all?

# 20 Acedeck @ 08/17/15 02:35 PM

Until XB1 has The Show, it will never be even close in terms of sports gaming. PS4 has everything the XB1 has, but it also has The Show. Beyond sports gaming, XB1 could be superior for all I care. But if we are talking specifically sports, I don't know how anyone can even make an argument.

Personally, I always felt EA Access was a poor deal. In the year 2015, there are enough other services that require a subscription (Spotify/Apple Music, Amazon Prime, Netflix, MMO's, Credit Reports, Adobe software, PSN/XBL, etc). EA trying to elbow their way into your wallet for another $5/month is just corporate greed. So what if you get the game a little early and pay a few bucks less. The "Vault" is just a bunch of old sports games, with a handful of older games that are practically bargain bin games at this point.

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