BioWare Allocates Resources for Mass Effect Project

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 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 entire studio's workforce. McKay confirmed that many BioWare employees have transitioned to other suitable roles within EA. While a smaller number of Dragon Age team members have had their positions terminated, they've been offered the opportunity to apply for other internal roles.

BioWare's organizational structure has undergone several changes in recent years, including layoffs in 2023 and notable departures, most recently director Corinne Busche. The exact current employee count at BioWare remains undisclosed. EA declined to provide specific numbers regarding the impact of the restructuring, including layoffs and the remaining workforce. However, an EA spokesperson stated that the studio is appropriately staffed for the current Mass Effect development phase, shifting its focus entirely to this title following the release of Dragon Age: The Veilguard.

The new Mass Effect game, announced four years ago, is still in its early stages. BioWare's strategy now prioritizes a single game at a time. This involves developers who previously assisted with Dragon Age: The Veilguard returning to the Mass Effect project. 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 approximately 50%, contributing to a lowered fiscal year outlook, alongside underperformance from EA Sports FC 25. EA's Q3 earnings call is scheduled for February 4.