Electronic Arts (EA), developer of titles including Apex Legends and the EA Sports series, has reported USD $5.54 billion revenue for fiscal year 2020. 

The company exceeded expectations, generating $1.39 billion in revenues during Q4 alone, significantly above the $1.19 most analysts predicted. 

For fiscal year 2020, EA generated revenues of $5.54 billion – up 12% on the previous year. Net income for the year was $3.04 billion. 

EA attributed the better than expected results to strong digital sales and franchises, and said digital net bookings were up 9% year-on-year, now making up 78% of its total net bookings. 

In terms of specific titles, Madden NFL 20 saw record engagement, while Apex Legends was the most downloaded free-to-play PS4 game during the year, and Star Wars Jedi: Fallen Order racked-up more than 10 million unique players. 

Looking ahead, the company has told investors it expects to generate $1.22 billion in net revenue for the first quarter of fiscal year 2021 – however,  it only expects $270 million of net income. 

AYO.NEWS says:

Given that the vast majority of its revenue is generated from downloaded digital entertainment, and it has some of the world’s most popular video game and esports titles in its portfolio, EA has found itself extremely well-placed to benefit from the COVID-19 lockdowns. 

Of course, despite lockdowns easing in some places, health authorities are warning that lockdowns could well return periodically over the next year or so, as new waves of infections hit – which could boost business even further… unless people find themselves unemployed and without financial support that is. 

Interesting times…

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