After recent high profile disappointments and controversies, EA shuts down legendary game studio BioWare
A studio closes after 31 years
Electronic Arts has shut down BioWare, a longtime video game studio known for the “Mass Effect” and “Dragon Age” series. The studio was founded in 1995 and has now closed after 31 years.
The closure also brings early development on the next “Mass Effect” project to an end. EA’s statement said the company’s focus was on supporting the team through the transition.
Recent games missed expectations
BioWare faced setbacks from games that drew poor critical reviews, including “Mass Effect: Andromeda” and “Anthem,” Bloomberg reported. The studio’s latest game, “Dragon Age: The Veilguard,” missed sales expectations. EA responded by significantly reducing the studio last year, according to Bloomberg.
Controversy and team transition
BioWare’s closure followed controversy over identity-politics themes in its games, as well as its recent disappointments. EA said its team members had put their hearts into the games and described supporting them through the transition as its current focus.
Key points
- EA shut down BioWare, known for the “Mass Effect” and “Dragon Age” franchises.
- The studio was founded in 1995 and closed after 31 years.
- “Dragon Age: The Veilguard” missed sales expectations, according to Bloomberg.
- The shutdown ends early development on the next “Mass Effect” project.