Mass Effect 5 Still In Production Despite BioWare Layoffs

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With significant shifts at BioWare, resulting in a large-scale reduction in workforce that now leaves fewer than 100 developers on board, fans are left pondering about the potential future developments for the Mass Effect series.

2020 marked the occasion known as “N7 Day,” an annual event dedicated to everything related to Mass Effect. This year’s celebration confirmed that a fresh installment of the series is underway. Towards the end of that year, a tantalizing teaser trailer was unveiled during The Game Awards.

Since BioWare is primarily working on “Dragon Age: The Veilguard,” it’s no surprise that information about the next Mass Effect game has been limited, with only occasional tidbits managing to surface here and there.

Despite the recent job cuts, there’s growing concern about the future of the game. It’s not hard to see why; BioWare, a studio we once adored, hasn’t produced a hit title in over ten years. Since 2014’s Dragon Age: Inquisition, Anthem has struggled and The Veilguard didn’t resonate with many players.

Michael Gamble, who serves as both Project Director and Executive Producer at BioWare, is heading up the team developing the upcoming Mass Effect game. Recently, he addressed apprehensions on a platform known as X (previously Twitter), reassuring fans that the project remains in its initial stages of production.

BioWare Says That Mass Effect Doesn’t Need Support From The Full Studio

Despite BioWare’s recent downsizing and concerns about their current status, it’s important to remember that these circumstances are not unusual within the game development industry. As the studio has stated, “Given where we are in the development process, we don’t necessarily need the entire team on board at this time.

It makes sense that some roles within the team might not be needed at this stage since the game is still in development. However, as the project progresses and moves into full production, additional staff will likely be brought on board to ensure the final product is top-notch.

Despite their ambitious statement, there remains a worry about BioWare’s choice of words. They aim to transform into a studio that is both nimble and dedicated to creating exceptional RPGs. Although this is a goal all developers strive for, the use of terms like “agile” and “focused” might suggest they could be operating with limited resources.

Once upon a time, BioWare was a game developer that people were willing to give the benefit of the doubt. However, their recent work seems to indicate a different story. Time will tell what the future may bring for BioWare.

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2025-02-03 19:41