Three EA Studios Earn Best Place to Work Accolades in the US

Three of Electronic Arts' (EA) studios have excelled in building an environment where creativity, innovation, and teamwork thrive. GamesIndustry.biz has recognized Maxis, Ripple Effect, and Cliffhanger as some of the industry's Best Places to Work in the US in 2023.

This prestigious acknowledgment by GamesIndustry.biz is a testament to EA's dedication to fostering a supportive and inspiring work culture across its studios.

Maxis: A Common Purpose, A Winning Formula

Maxis, known for its iconic franchise "The Sims," has earned recognition as one of the industry's top creative hubs for the second year in a row. With a legacy that spans multiple decades, the studio continues to evolve while consistently nurturing a work culture that values community both internally with its teams and externally with its players.

“In my time at EA, it’s always been clear to me that every team member working on the Sims franchise is driven by a common purpose: to foster a diverse and inclusive community, to adapt to the needs of our players, and to face challenges together with a willingness to learn and try new things,” said VP & GM of The Sims Franchise Kate Gorman in response to the win. “It’s something that we try to nurture from the leadership level, but it’s also a reflection of the collective character of those working at Maxis and elsewhere within the Sims franchise. We care about our players and each other, and I think we can attribute much of our success to that simple fact.”

Maxis' enduring legacy and commitment to maintaining a positive work environment make it an ideal place for creatives to push the boundaries of game development and storytelling.

Ripple Effect: A Culture of Quality, Positivity, and Learning

Ripple Effect, a studio with a rich legacy as DICE LA, is now forging its own identity. Focused on bringing a new experience to the beloved "Battlefield" franchise, their work on the series exemplifies their commitment to innovation and collaboration.

Studio head Christian Grass is quick to give credit to the team for creating this positive culture.  “More than anything, I think this award is because of the values that this team encompasses. We believe in this idea of quality in everything we do - not just in the game development process but in how we grow and support people, how we interact, and how we lead.  We want Ripple Effect to be a place where people thrive and can do the best work of their career.”

Ripple Effect's dedication to encouraging learning and innovation has propelled them to the forefront of game development, making it a vital part of EA's creative family.

Cliffhanger: Inclusive, Innovative, and On a Mission

Cliffhanger, a relatively new studio, was founded on a firmly held set of goals and values, with design innovation serving as the heart of it all. The team aims to push the boundaries of storytelling, narrative design, and gameplay mechanics. But they’re also united by their shared values, including diversity, collaboration, and empowerment. Their accolade as one of the Best Places to Work reflects their dedication to creating an atmosphere of exploration and collaboration.

In reaction to the win, VP & Studio GM Kevin Stephens cited the studio’s values as a major key to their growing success. “Having the opportunity to build a new team around the values of innovation, diversity, collaboration, and empowerment felt special and rare, but it’s those exact values that have allowed us to attract incredible talent from across the industry – and beyond, in some cases. We know the foundation to any great game is to build a team with unique voices and perspectives, and I believe we’re well on our way to doing exactly that.”

Cliffhanger's devotion to innovation, underpinned by a supportive work environment, will surely leave an indelible mark on the industry in time.

A Shared Commitment to Excellence

While each is unique, these three studios share an unwavering commitment to creativity, inclusivity, and collaboration. These qualities are embedded in the very fabric of these studios, driving them to create unforgettable gaming and employee experiences.

The video game industry continues to evolve, and EA's Maxis, Ripple Effect, and Cliffhanger exemplify the power of cultivating a workplace where innovation and inclusion thrive. GamesIndustry.biz's recognition underscores EA's dedication to nurturing a culture that values every individual's contribution to the industry, ensuring that they remain among the Best Places to Work in gaming for years to come.

If you’d like to join one of these award-winning teams, visit Maxis, Ripple Effect and Cliffhanger to view openings.

Check out other amazing EA stories on ea.com/news.