EA Restructures BioWare, Focusing Entirely on the Next Mass Effect Game
Electronic Arts (EA) has announced a restructuring of BioWare, the studio behind the Dragon Age and Mass Effect franchises. The restructuring involves reassigning a number of developers to other EA projects and concentrating all remaining resources on the upcoming Mass Effect game.
In a blog post, BioWare general manager Gary McKay explained that the studio is using the time between major development cycles to "reimagine how we work." He stated that the current stage of Mass Effect development doesn't require the full studio's support. Many BioWare employees have been transitioned to other suitable roles within EA, while a smaller number of Dragon Age team members have faced termination, with the option to apply for other internal positions.
BioWare has undergone significant structural shifts in recent years, including layoffs in 2023 and several high-profile departures, most recently director Corinne Busche. While EA hasn't disclosed precise numbers, a spokesperson confirmed that the studio now has the appropriate personnel for the current phase of Mass Effect development. The spokesperson emphasized that the studio's focus has shifted from Dragon Age to Mass Effect following the release of Dragon Age: The Veilguard.
The new Mass Effect game, announced four years ago, remains in its early stages. BioWare's current strategy prioritizes focusing on one game at a time. This involves developers returning to the Mass Effect project after assisting with the completion of Dragon Age: The Veilguard. Veteran developers Mike Gamble, Preston Watamaniuk, Derek Watts, and Parrish Ley are leading the Mass Effect development.
This restructuring follows EA's recent announcement that Dragon Age: The Veilguard missed player targets by approximately 50%, contributing to a lowered fiscal year guidance. EA's Q3 earnings conference call is scheduled for February 4th.
