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 full studio's support isn't currently needed for the Mass Effect project. McKay confirmed that many BioWare employees have transitioned to other suitable roles within EA.

While EA hasn't disclosed exact figures, 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 the recent announcement of director Corinne Busche's departure. The current size of BioWare's workforce remains undisclosed.

EA's response to inquiries regarding specific numbers focused on the shift in priorities. The statement highlighted that Dragon Age was the studio's previous focus, with a smaller team concurrently working on the next Mass Effect. Now, with Dragon Age: The Veilguard released, the studio's complete attention is on Mass Effect. EA maintains that the studio is appropriately staffed for the current stage of Mass Effect development.

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 previously shifted from Mass Effect to Dragon Age 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 follows EA's recent revelation that Dragon Age: The Veilguard significantly missed player expectations (by almost 50%) and contributed to a downward revision of the company's fiscal year guidance. EA's Q3 earnings call is scheduled for February 4.