The Evolution of EA Tiburon
Celebrating EA Orlando’s evolution from independent studio to global entertainment pioneer
EA Orlando
Our roots in Orlando run deep, tracing back to 1994 when three software developers broke away from the video game mecca of Silicon Valley to establish Tiburon Entertainment in a state known for little more than its theme parks and orange groves.
Their courage to risk it all and follow a dream was the spark for what would eventually become Electronic Arts in Orlando (EA Orlando) – an anchor in the region’s emerging hub for digital media and interactive entertainment, a coveted employer for the world’s most talented electronic artists and a compassionate partner to community members and organizations in need.
From Startup to Flagship
Built on the philosophy of “making the best games possible, on time,” Tiburon Entertainment’s early success captured the attention of leaders at Electronic Arts. Following a four-year partnership, Tiburon Entertainment was acquired and became EA Tiburon.
The flagship studio for our EA SPORTS Madden NFL franchise, EA Tiburon quickly grew to become the go-to studio for sports, partnering with the PGA TOUR, NCAA, NBA NASCAR and others. As the popularity of its authentic, fan-favorite sports experiences grew, so did EA’s footprint in Central Florida. EA Orlando is the result of the studio’s success, encompassing more than just the EA Tiburon development team.
Today, over 1,000 world-class creatives, technologists and expert professionals from various disciplines converge on the cutting-edge of digital interactive entertainment at EA Orlando. Not only do EA Orlando teams create virtual worlds more authentic than in any other games available, but they also provide the support services required to ensure our games can reach people around the world and inspire them to play.
An Environment Where Everyone Can Play
We are always pushing the envelope to build experiences that have never before been imagined, both inside our studio and in our community.
EA Orlando is committed to creating an environment where our people can do their best work and develop games that celebrate and reflect a world where all of us are represented in play. In January 2021, we joined nearly 100 others from Orlando’s business community in the first-ever regional corporate diversity, equity and inclusion pledge “focused on raising the growth potential of residents by creating opportunities for those long-affected by racial inequality and ensuring pathways for participation in the economy.”
Inside the studio, our Employee Resource Groups (ERGs) – voluntary employee-organized groups – unite our team members around a common affinity, experience or interest to foster an inclusive and diverse workplace. Open to any employee regardless of background, location or function, ERGs influence culture and serve as an organizational and community resource for awareness and education.
Every ERG at EA Orlando creates a space where like-minded individuals can feel like they belong and engage executives in the conversation to champion progress.
Inspiring the Next Generation
Our efforts to embrace and celebrate diversity, equity and inclusion transcends the walls of our building, extending into our work as a partner to numerous community organizations in and around the Creative Village. EA Orlando has formally committed in its documented “Community Action Plan” to collaborate with education, government, nonprofit and industry partners on educational opportunities and programs for diverse communities.
In this work, we maintain a special focus on helping underrepresented talent in the area realize the career paths available to them in science, technology, engineering, arts and math (STEAM). We’re excited to ignite and illuminate possibilities for the future that are equal parts inspiration, information, investment and inclusion.
What’s Next for EA Orlando?
“Our state-of-the-art studio in Downtown Orlando is a game-changer, creating an environment where our team members can do their best creative work and bringing us closer to the community where we hope to have a positive impact,” said Daryl Holt, senior vice president and general manager, EA Tiburon, EA SPORTS Austin and EA SPORTS Madrid.
Further adding, “We’re excited to continue EA’s long history in Central Florida, building on the momentum of partnerships in and around the Creative Village to continue inspiring individuals to play throughout this region and beyond.”
From developing some of the world’s most popular games to inspiring the next generation of STEAM professionals, our team at EA Orlando is passionate about leveraging technology, art and creativity to make a positive impact on the world.
Want to join us? Check out the latest job openings.