The Shutdown of Anthem: A Reflection on BioWare's Missteps

BioWare and Electronic Arts (EA) are set to permanently shut down the servers for the multiplayer game Anthem on January 12, 2026. This closure marks the end of a title that was initially heralded as a significant addition to the gaming landscape but ultimately failed to meet expectations. As an online-only game, Anthem will be unplayable after the server shutdown, a situation that has sparked frustration among players who invested in the title.

Anthem's end is nearly here - only days remain before EA will switch off the servers to BioWare's ill-fated multiplayer game

Anthem was launched in 2019 as a live-service multiplayer game, aiming to combine BioWare's storytelling prowess with engaging multiplayer mechanics. However, the game struggled with numerous issues, including gameplay mechanics and a lack of content, leading to a decline in its player base. Despite plans for a major overhaul, dubbed Anthem 2.0, these were ultimately abandoned, leaving the game in a precarious position. The closure of Anthem follows a series of setbacks for BioWare, including the mixed reception of Mass Effect: Andromeda in 2017 and ongoing challenges in game development.

Anthem's end is nearly here - only days remain before EA will switch off the servers to BioWare's ill-fated multiplayer gameIf You've Never Played Anthem, You've Got About Nine Days Left To Change ThatPSA: EA Has Already Confirmed 4 Games It's Shutting Down This Year, and 3 Are on the Chopping Block for JanuaryThree Xbox Games Are Shutting Down Their Servers In January 2026

BioWare, known for its rich single-player experiences, faced significant pressure to pivot towards multiplayer gaming with Anthem. EA, as the publisher, has a history of shutting down games that do not maintain a sufficient player base, a practice that has drawn criticism from the gaming community. The decision to sunset Anthem reflects broader trends in the gaming industry regarding the sustainability of live-service models.

Anthem's end is nearly here - only days remain before EA will switch off the servers to BioWare's ill-fated multiplayer game

EA announced the server shutdown for Anthem in the summer of 2025, stating, "After careful consideration, we will be sunsetting Anthem on January 12, 2026." This decision has been met with disappointment from players and critics alike, who argue that the closure exemplifies the pitfalls of live-service gaming. Many have voiced concerns about the implications of losing access to purchased games once servers are taken offline.

Three Xbox Games Are Shutting Down Their Servers In January 2026

The impending shutdown of Anthem has fueled movements advocating for the protection of digital games. Initiatives like Stop Destroying Games and Stop Killing Games have emerged, calling for regulations to prevent companies from shutting down servers for games that players have purchased. Critics argue that the current model undermines consumer rights and the value of digital ownership.

PSA: EA Has Already Confirmed 4 Games It's Shutting Down This Year, and 3 Are on the Chopping Block for January

While EA has confirmed the shutdown of Anthem, other titles are also facing server closures. NBA Live 19 and The Sims Mobile are set to shut down later in January 2026, with additional titles expected to follow. However, the exact number of games affected and the timeline for future closures remain unclear, as EA has a history of announcing server shutdowns with little notice.

PSA: EA Has Already Confirmed 4 Games It's Shutting Down This Year, and 3 Are on the Chopping Block for January

• “But if a game is not attracting a large enough audience to justify the expenditure of ongoing server costs, which I don't think Anthem was, then what's a company to do - run it at a loss?” — Eurogamer

Anthem's end is nearly here - only days remain before EA will switch off the servers to BioWare's ill-fated multiplayer game

As Anthem's servers prepare to close, all eyes are on BioWare's upcoming projects, including the anticipated fifth Mass Effect game. The success of this title may be crucial for the studio's future, especially in light of the challenges it has faced in recent years. The gaming community will be watching closely to see how BioWare navigates its next steps in an evolving industry landscape.

Anthem's end is nearly here - only days remain before EA will switch off the servers to BioWare's ill-fated multiplayer game