EA Sports FC might be getting a proper football game challenger, as 2K sets up new studio to make its “next blockbuster sports franchise”

2K Sports has announced the formation of Small Axe Studios, a new AAA development team based in Vancouver, Canada. The studio is mandated to create 2K’s “next blockbuster sports franchise,” though the company has not officially specified which sport it will focus on.

Aaron McHardy leads the new studio as head of studio, vice president, and executive producer. McHardy previously spent 15-17 years at EA Sports, where he led the FIFA franchise as an executive producer before departing in 2023. His extensive experience overseeing one of gaming’s most successful sports properties makes him a high-profile hire for 2K’s ambitious project.

Small Axe Studios has recruited a leadership team comprised largely of former EA developers, including Gary Paterson (head of design), Mike Thompson (head of engineering), Brent Breedveld (animation director), Karl Gryc (art director), John Cruz (technical art director), and Tom Pan (head of operations).

While 2K has not disclosed which sport the studio will target, industry speculation heavily suggests the project will be a soccer game designed to challenge EA Sports FC’s dominance in the football gaming market. This theory is fueled by Small Axe’s roster of seasoned soccer game developers, including McHardy’s two decades of experience with FIFA and EA Sports FC. The timing and team composition suggests a direct attempt to break EA Sports’ near-monopoly on football simulation gaming, potentially marking the first serious competitive threat to the franchise in years.

EA Sports FC might be getting a proper football game challenger, as 2K sets up new studio to make its “next blockbuster sports franchise”

Sources