Mass Effect 5: BioWare Doesn't 'Require Support From the Full Studio', EA Moves Some Staff to Other Teams

EA Restructures BioWare, Focusing Solely 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 the studio is "reimagining how we work" during the period between major development cycles. He stated that the current Mass Effect development phase doesn't require the entire studio's workforce. Many BioWare employees have been transitioned to other suitable roles within EA. A smaller number of Dragon Age team members have had their positions terminated, with the option to apply for other internal roles.

BioWare has undergone significant structural changes in recent years, including layoffs in 2023 and several high-profile departures, most recently director Corinne Busche. The exact current employee count at BioWare remains undisclosed. While EA didn't provide specific numbers regarding the impact of the restructuring, a spokesperson confirmed that the studio is now fully focused on Mass Effect, possessing the appropriate personnel for the current development stage. The spokesperson emphasized that Dragon Age was the studio's previous priority, and some personnel previously working on Mass Effect were temporarily assigned to Dragon Age to ensure its completion. These individuals are now returning to the Mass Effect project.

The new Mass Effect game, announced four years ago, is still in its early stages. BioWare's current strategy prioritizes focusing on one game at a time. 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 fell short of player targets by approximately 50%, contributing to a reduced fiscal year guidance. EA's Q3 earnings call is scheduled for February 4th.