Debates surrounding the decline of BioWare, once heralded as the titan of role-playing games, have been plentiful. However, the consensus on its nadir is unmistakable: the 2019 launch of Anthem. This live-service co-op looter-shooter diverged sharply from the studio’s celebrated legacy, leading to a disheartening reception. Steven Messner’s review encapsulated the sentiment, awarding the game a mere 55% and describing it as “deeply flawed and frequently frustrating,” despite its visual appeal—an ironic parallel to the author’s own self-description.
In the wake of Anthem, BioWare committed to a “reinvention” of the game, but this promise was ultimately quashed in 2021 when EA executives decided to halt development entirely. Prior to this, Mass Effect: Andromeda had already tarnished the studio’s reputation, plagued by bugs and failing to redeem itself even after patches were applied. For many, Anthem represented the culmination of a troubling trend, raising concerns about whether this once-beloved studio was facing an uncertain future.
David Gaider, a veteran of BioWare, articulated a critical perspective on the studio’s shift in focus, suggesting that the company no longer felt the need to cater to its loyal RPG fanbase. Instead, the strategy appeared to target a broader audience, one that was not necessarily invested in the traditional offerings of the studio.
Recent Developments
As the dust settled on Anthem, BioWare released two titles: Mass Effect Legendary Edition and Dragon Age: The Veilguard. The remastered trilogy of Mass Effect received a warm reception, rekindling some of the studio’s former glory. In contrast, the new installment in the Dragon Age series elicited a more lukewarm response, leaving fans divided.
The trajectory of BioWare now hinges on the forthcoming Mass Effect game. Its success or failure will likely determine whether the end of Anthem is viewed as a tragic conclusion or the dawn of a revitalized chapter for the studio. While hope lingers, skepticism remains prevalent among industry observers and fans alike.
