'C&C' to become online only?

Electronic Arts has suggested that its iconic strategy series Command & Conquer could be released online only in the future.

Speaking to Gamasutra, studio exec Jon Van Caneghem said that all future games in the popular franchise could be delivered direct to the customer. He also revealed plans to introduce social elements to the title.

"Direct-to-consumer is where I think most games are going, and I've always been a fan of the [C&C] series," he told Gamasutra. "The company has the same vision I do on the future of games and the future of this franchise, so I think it's going be great.

"Look what online has done for RPGs over the last ten years. All the other categories are following suit... we're looking forward to building something to be a leader in that space. It allows you to do everything you would have expected from a boxed game, but it adds a lot more to it... being connected and connected with players, and persistence, the social elements of playing against each other with other friends."

Van Caneghem also noted the success of online games on social networking websites. "What you’re seeing with all the social gamers on Facebook... they are actually already playing strategy games whether they know it or not," he added.

"Taking a franchise like Command & Conquer and expanding it to a wider audience is part of the strategy."

The Command & Conquer series currently consists of eight games and ten expansion packs. They have collectively sold over 30 million units worldwide.