2004 seems like a long time ago. It was the last time the Eagles lost in the Super Bowl (key word: lost, those days are in the past), the Spirit Rover landed on Mars, Facebook officially launched and the last episode of 'Friends' aired. It also happened to be the last time the NFL and 2K had a partnership.
Luckily, things are about to change.
The two have reunited and struck up a multi-year partnership. According the the 2K's press release, they are expecting to release non-simulation football game experiences that will launch in 2021.
The partnership marks the return of football-themed games to 2K's stable of notable sports titles and original IP, as well as an expansion of video game properties for the NFL.
2K previously published the popular and critically acclaimed NFL 2K franchise, which ran from 1999 to 2004, through the Company's 2K Sports label.
Now, that doesn't mean NFL simulation games are going anywhere either, so you can get your fix of both. EA Sports reacted to the news:
EA SPORTS is the exclusive publisher of NFL simulations games, and our partnership with the NFL and NFLPA remains unchanged. Our agreements have always allowed for non-exclusive development commitment to NFL fans, which spans almost 30 years, has never been stronger, and we're having our biggest year yet. Madden NFL 20 is the most successful game ever in the franchise, and new modes like Superstar KO and our Madden NFL esports broadcasts are growing the fan base. We'll be building on that momentum with more new and different experiences, on more platforms and with new ways to play, in the years to come.
NFL
While there is still a level of uncertainty when it comes to just what the difference will be between the two platforms and what draws the line of what will be considered a simulation.
If they're able to create an arcade-style experience, much like the old NFL Blitz, Madden might see some serious competition once it's released.
Specific game titles, developers and release days will be announced at a later date but that doesn't mean fans aren't already discussing the possibilities:
NFL 2k is coming back, you say? pic.twitter.com/yc6vo9YpyJ
2K5 was insane. I had so many monster seasons with Oronde Gadsden at reciever.
2k made the greatest football game ever so yeah, Madden gonna have to step it up. I might actually play a football game again.
— swzy (@MPsweezy) March 10, 2020
This is the news I have been waiting for for years. The early 2000s 2k with T.O. on the cover was lit
You can read the official release from 2K about their partnership with the NFL here.
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