Mass Effect 5 Development Update: BioWare Optimizes Resources

EA Restructures BioWare, Focusing Solely on 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 the studio is "reimagining how we work" during the period between major development cycles. He stated that the current Mass Effect development phase doesn't require the entire studio's workforce. 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.

This restructuring follows a series of changes at BioWare in recent years, including layoffs in 2023 and several high-profile departures, most recently director Corinne Busche. While EA hasn't disclosed specific numbers regarding the impact of the restructuring, a spokesperson confirmed that the studio now has the appropriate personnel for the current Mass Effect development stage. The spokesperson emphasized that the studio's priority 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 of development. BioWare's strategy now prioritizes focusing on one game at a time, with some developers who previously assisted with Dragon Age's completion returning to the Mass Effect project. Veteran developers Mike Gamble, Preston Watamaniuk, Derek Watts, and Parrish Ley are leading the Mass Effect development.

This announcement comes after EA revealed that Dragon Age: The Veilguard significantly missed player expectations (by nearly 50%) and consequently lowered its fiscal year guidance. EA will discuss these results further during its Q3 earnings call on February 4.