Mass Effect 5: BioWare Doesn't 'Require Support From the Full Studio', EA Moves Some Staff to Other Teams

EA Restructures BioWare, Focusing Entirely 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 that the studio is using the period between major development cycles to "reimagine how we work." He stated that the current Mass Effect development phase doesn't require the full studio's support. McKay confirmed that many BioWare employees have transitioned to other suitable roles within EA.

While EA hasn't disclosed specific numbers, it's understood that some Dragon Age team members have been let go, with the option to apply for other internal positions. This restructuring follows previous layoffs in 2023 and several high-profile departures, including director Corinne Busche's recent announcement.

EA's spokesperson clarified that BioWare's focus was previously on Dragon Age, but with the release of Dragon Age: The Veilguard, the studio is now fully dedicated to Mass Effect. The spokesperson emphasized that the studio is appropriately staffed for the current stage of Mass Effect development.

The new Mass Effect game, announced four years ago, remains in its early stages. BioWare's current strategy prioritizes a single game at a time, with some developers who previously worked on Mass Effect returning to the project after assisting with the completion of Dragon Age: The Veilguard. Veteran Mass Effect developers Mike Gamble, Preston Watamaniuk, Derek Watts, and Parrish Ley are leading the development.

This announcement follows EA's recent revelation that Dragon Age: The Veilguard missed player targets by almost 50%, contributing to a lowered fiscal year guidance. EA's Q3 earnings call is scheduled for February 4.