While NBA Live 13's cancelation was obviously a great disapointment to fans and the NBA alike, the NBA still plans on moving forward with EA on future game titles.
Speaking with Joystiq, when asked about the cancelation of NBA Live '13, the NBA's VP of Marketing Communications said that the NBA has "had a great relationship with EA for more than 20 years. We are obviously disappointed that EA will not be releasing NBA LIVE 13 this year, but have been assured by EA that the next release of NBA LIVE will meet our mutual standards of excellence."
EA's Executive VP Andrew Wilson said the team plans on "making next year's game great."
EA announced the cancelation of the game late last month. Even after delays, EA wasn't satisfied with the results they were getting, and chose to scrap the project than continue to delay it further.
According to EA's vice president Andrew Wilson:
"...making great games is not easy, and we're just not there yet on NBA LIVE 13. Having continued to look at the game over the past few days, it's clear that we won't be ready in October. And rather than launch midway through the season, we're going to sit out the full year and stay focused on making next year's game great. This decision puts us on the right track for success well into the future in a rapidly changing industry.
I'm disappointed that we have not yet met our high expectations with NBA LIVE, but I remain motivated about where we're going. We're committed to delivering new innovation in online, and our progress in the visual presentation of the game continues to take big strides. We also know that a great game starts with great gameplay, and this remains a huge priority for us.
This wasn't an easy decision, but it's the right one for our fans. I hope you'll agree when you're able to play the game next year."
NBA Live 13 was to be EA's supposed glorious return to the franchise after a three year hiatus, and poor fameplay reviews based on bad AI and collision detection. Even though it looks as though gamers will have to wait 'til next year to get a taste of the next Live title, EA still has the support of the NBA.
