Back to today’s briefing

Story perspectives

BioWare Shrinks as EA Shifts Focus to Mass Effect 5

2/4/2025

26 3

Summary

Story summary

BioWare's team has shrunk to under 100 employees after layoffs due to the disappointing performance of Dragon Age: The Veilguard. In a strategic shift, EA is now concentrating on the next Mass Effect installment. Executive producer Michael Gamble reassures fans that Mass Effect 5 is still in pre-production, with development actively progressing.

History

Historical Context

BioWare's workforce has dwindled to under 100 employees following layoffs tied to the poor reception of Dragon Age: The Veilguard. This mirrors broader trends in the gaming industry, where over 25,000 jobs were lost between 2023 and 2024 due to rising costs and AI integration, prompting studios to prioritize flagship franchises like Mass Effect to ensure financial viability.

1 of 2

Story summary

BioWare's team has shrunk to under 100 employees after layoffs due to the disappointing performance of Dragon Age: The Veilguard. In a strategic shift, EA is now concentrating on the next Mass Effect installment. Executive producer Michael Gamble reassures fans that Mass Effect 5 is still in pre-production, with development actively progressing.

1 / 2