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, allowing the studio to concentrate solely on its upcoming Mass Effect title.
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 full studio's support isn't currently needed for the Mass Effect project and that many employees have been successfully transitioned to other suitable roles within EA.
While EA hasn't disclosed precise numbers, it's understood that an unspecified number of BioWare developers have been moved to other positions within EA. A smaller group of Dragon Age team members face potential layoffs, with the option to apply for other internal roles.
BioWare's organizational structure has undergone several changes in recent years, including layoffs in 2023 and the departure of several high-profile employees during the development of Dragon Age: The Veilguard, most recently director Corinne Busche.
EA's statement emphasizes that the studio's focus has shifted from Dragon Age to Mass Effect following the release of The Veilguard. They assert that the current team size is appropriate for the Mass Effect project's developmental stage.
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 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 announcement that Dragon Age: The Veilguard fell short of player expectations by approximately 50%, impacting the company's fiscal year guidance. EA's Q3 earnings call is scheduled for February 4.
