Medal of Honor: Warfighter weakens EA's fiscal expectations

Medal of Honor: Warfighter will sell under Electronic Arts' expectations, the publisher announced yesterday in its financial earnings report. The military FPS shipped to a poor critical reception, weakening the company's outlook for its next quarter.

EA's financial results for its second quarter 2013 ended September 30 were largely powered by EA Sports, with both FIFA 13 and Madden NFL 13 claiming top slots in September's competitive sales. FIFA shipped 7.4 million units in its first four weeks; EA said that makes it "the biggest sports launch of all-time."

Meanwhile, the publisher's digital revenue grew nearly equal to its packaged goods category, bringing in $324 million this year next to $365 million in packaged sales and other net revenue. The company's total losses also increased in the same period, coming in at $381 million versus $340 million last year.

"[T]he game sector is in a volatile period of change and transition--awaiting new catalysts for even more rapid growth. EA is executing well in this environment, and investing for strong growth and leadership in what comes next," EA CEO John Riccitiello said in a conference call with investors. "EA doesn’t win every inning--but we put a lot of runs on the scoreboard and we expect to finish the season at the top of the standings and to continue to do so for years to come."