EA Sports’ college video game franchises are far more than cult classics.

A decade ago, its college basketball game was the conduit through which advocates sued for one of the most pivotal athlete compensation reforms in NCAA history: name, image, and likeness rights.

Now, the 2024 iteration of EA Sports College Football — which will include athletes and pay them for the use of their NILs — has become embroiled in controversy. Over the past two weeks, EA has been criticized over athlete payments and been served a bonafide lawsuit over who gets to negotiate on athletes’ behalf.