BioWare is a large studio known for titles such as Mass Effect: Andromeda and Dragon Age: Inquisition. It appears that all is not well at the studio, as on August 23, it announced that it is “eliminating approximately 50 roles.”
According to a statement released by general manager Gary McKay, the move was made to help BioWare become a “more agile and more focused studio.” McKay states that this is an unavoidable outcome, and steps will be taken to “ensure the process is handled with empathy, respect, and clear communication.”
What’s going on at BioWare?
According to McKay, BioWare’s long-term vision is to deliver “exceptional story-driven single-player experiences filled with vast worlds and rich characters.” This involves ensuring that the upcoming Dragon Age and Mass Effect games are a success. The announcement reveals that the studio’s dedication to Dragon Age: Dreadwolf hasn’t wavered, and that a team led by Mike Gamble is still working on the next Mass Effect game.
Employees affected by the layoffs won’t be left stranded, according to McKay who promises to provide “impacted colleagues with as many internal opportunities as possible,” though he does state that it is unlikely that everyone will find new internal roles. With several roles opening up in Electronic Arts’ other studios, affected workers will also be assisted with their applications for these positions.
This is unfortunate news, though BioWare isn’t the only studio that has suffered layoffs this year. The AR gaming studio Niantic has also met the same fate, as well as CD Projekt Red and The Callisto Protocol‘s Striking Distance, to name a few.
