March 13: A Disheartening Day Awaits College Football Fans

The online multiplayer servers for NCAA Football 14 are set to close for good on March 13, marking the end of an era for passionate fans of college football video games. For many years, NCAA Football 14 stood alone as the go-to college football game, primarily because legal entanglements around player likenesses prevented EA from releasing any new titles. This situation forced die-hard fans to stick with their PlayStation 3 or Xbox 360 to enjoy college football gaming.

Although the lack of new releases was evidently frustrating for fans, it unquestionably elevated NCAA Football 14 to legendary status. Uniquely, its resale value soared, contrasting with the typical depreciation seen in sports games. However, this exclusive reign ended in 2024 when EA finally launched EA Sports College Football 25, which reignited the fanbase. Now, not even a year later, NCAA Football 14’s online services are being permanently switched off.

This decision had been on the books for a while, and the countdown is now ticking. By Thursday, March 13, the official sunrise for these servers will have come and gone. For those still enjoying online play or aiming for completionist accolades, this would be the time to log in and gather any last achievements. Once the servers go dark, several of the game’s trophies and achievements will no longer be attainable, so take note if you’re a collector of gaming milestones.

The closing of NCAA Football 14’s servers feels particularly poignant given its long-standing role in the gaming world. Sports games rarely maintain online services for such a lengthy period. Luckily, its closure does not leave a void in the genre; EA Sports College Football 25 is available and has been highly successful, earning strong sales figures and positive reception worldwide. It’s impressive enough that it has become the best-selling sports video game in history.

And the excitement doesn’t stop there. EA is pushing forward with the franchise and has College Football 26 in the pipeline, set to launch this summer. Fans are eagerly anticipating what new features and gameplay enhancements this upcoming iteration will bring to the table. As the months roll closer to summer, more information, including the release date and details about what to expect, should come to light.

For those who cherished NCAA Football 14, this undoubtedly marks a bittersweet moment. Still, in its wake, there’s plenty to look forward to with the arrival of College Football 25 and the impending College Football 26. There’s a new chapter beginning, filled with promise and fresh virtual gridiron action.