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Josef Fares Defends EA Amid Saudi Investment Backlash

1/14/2026

Summary

Story summary

Josef Fares, founder of Hazelight Studios, defended Electronic Arts (EA) amid backlash over its acquisition by Saudi investors and related human rights concerns.
He cited a strong Hazelight–EA collaboration, noting both parties respect each other's creative processes.
Fares stated that EA's past mistakes are not unique and that all companies face criticism.
He discussed AI's role in game development, noting Hazelight uses AI tools effectively while warning against generative AI.

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Story summary

Josef Fares, founder of Hazelight Studios, defended Electronic Arts (EA) amid backlash over its acquisition by Saudi investors and related human rights concerns.
He cited a strong Hazelight–EA collaboration, noting both parties respect each other's creative processes.
Fares stated that EA's past mistakes are not unique and that all companies face criticism.
He discussed AI's role in game development, noting Hazelight uses AI tools effectively while warning against generative AI.