This is just my opinion, though semi-backed by conversations I've had with people who work at EA.
EA Gameplan in a nutshell.
1) Force studio to make changes to a game that benefit the EA but have no tangible (or very little) benefit to the customers (Forcing use of Origin, Sims being online only, etc..)
2) Act surprised when the proverbial shit hits the fan with angry customers.
3) Let said customers know that "you're sorry" and they "have been heard" "loud and clear".
4) Close studio that you forced to make the game breaking changes (or at a minimum lay off most of the staff)
EA Gameplan in a nutshell.
1) Force studio to make changes to a game that benefit the EA but have no tangible (or very little) benefit to the customers (Forcing use of Origin, Sims being online only, etc..)
2) Act surprised when the proverbial shit hits the fan with angry customers.
3) Let said customers know that "you're sorry" and they "have been heard" "loud and clear".
4) Close studio that you forced to make the game breaking changes (or at a minimum lay off most of the staff)
5) Repeat 1-4 yearly.