Say hello (again) to EA Sports College Football. The beloved video-game behemoth is back

Core Viewpoint - EA Sports is reviving its college football video game franchise after an 11-year hiatus, allowing college athletes to profit from their name, image, and likeness (NIL) for the first time, which is expected to enhance player engagement and marketability [7][5][4] Group 1: Company Developments - EA Sports announced the return of its college football franchise in 2021, with a new game set to be released in summer 2024, featuring real player names and likenesses [7][8] - The company is offering Football Bowl Subdivision players a minimum of $600 and a copy of the game to be featured, with over 10,000 players accepting this offer [7] - The last version of the college football game was released in 2013, and the franchise has been dormant since then due to legal issues regarding player likeness [6][4] Group 2: Industry Context - The NCAA's decision in 2021 to allow college athletes to profit from their NIL has created a favorable environment for the revival of the college football video game [5][4] - The gaming industry has evolved significantly over the past decade, with advancements in immersive experiences and gameplay modes, positioning EA Sports to compete effectively in the current market [8][9] - The cultural significance of college football video games has been highlighted, as they have inspired generations of players and fans, creating a strong nostalgic demand for their return [4][3]