From PCMAG · Michael Kan · · 1m 30s
RIP BioWare: EA Cuts 400 Jobs as Studio Shuts Down
EA shuts BioWare after 30 years, cutting 400 jobs to focus on top franchises.
In brief
EA shuts BioWare after 30 years, cutting 400 jobs to focus on top franchises. Electronic Arts closed BioWare, the studio behind Mass Effect and Dragon Age, after 30 years of operation, cutting 400 jobs to prioritize franchises like Battlefield and EA Sports. Originally reported by PCMAG.
BioWare closes after 30 years
Electronic Arts has decided to close BioWare, the studio behind popular titles including Mass Effect, Dragon Age, and Star Wars: Knights of the Old Republic.
BioWare tweets shutdown announcement
BioWare tweeted the news today, noting the studio has been around for over 30 years and work had already begun on a new Mass Effect entry.
EA confirms shutdown and job cuts
EA confirmed the news as it embarks on a major shake-up, prioritizing its most popular franchises including Battlefield and EA Sports, while cutting about 400 jobs.
EA leaders explain shutdown
EA leaders Cam Weber and David Tinson wrote in a memo that they are closing BioWare and its Edmonton workspace due to focusing on larger opportunities.
BioWare's last title and controversy
BioWare's last major title was Dragon Age: The Veilguard, which received positive reviews but faced controversy over being 'woke'.
EA ownership changes
EA ownership changed in August when Saudi Arabia's Public Investment Fund, Silver Lake, and Affinity Partners closed their acquisition of the game publisher.
EA's future focus
EA will merge Respawn and DICE studios, invest in Apex Legends, and prepare for Marvel's Iron Man and Star Wars Jedi games.
The short version
Electronic Arts closed BioWare, the studio behind Mass Effect and Dragon Age, after 30 years of operation, cutting 400 jobs to prioritize franchises like Battlefield and EA Sports.
