The recent layoffs at Electronic Arts may have raised concerns about the future of some projects, but fans can be reassured that BioWare is still working on Mass Effect 5. The gaming industry has seen a rise in layoffs over the past year, with BioWare cutting part of the Star Wars: The Old Republic team in June. In 2024, there have been over 8,000 reported job losses in just the last few months alone.
EA recently faced another wave of layoffs, resulting in nearly 670 people losing their jobs due to cost-cutting measures. This news came shortly after PlayStation laid off about 900 workers, including those from studios like Guerrilla Games, Insomniac, and Naughty Dog. EA's recent staff reductions have led to the cancellation of Respawn's Star Wars FPS and the closure of Battlefield developer Ridgeline Games.
Despite the setbacks, EA is continuing to work on several projects, such as Mass Effect 5. BioWare, the studio behind the Mass Effect series, is currently in the early stages of developing the next installment. At the same time, BioWare is also dedicated to working on Dragon Age: Dreadwolf.
Normandy Fragment Mass Effect 4
Mass Effect 5 Update
Mass Effect 5 was first teased in 2020 with a mysterious trailer featuring Liara T'Soni. Since then, BioWare has been dropping hints about what fans can expect in the upcoming game. Recent teasers suggest that familiar races like the Geth and Angara will play a role, and there's talk of resolving debates over Mass Effect 3 endings after years of speculation. Rumors also hint at a return of the classic Paragon/Renegade morality system from the original trilogy, a feature that was absent in Mass Effect: Andromeda.
EA's recent layoffs may have led to the cancellation of some projects and the closure of studios, but all hope is not lost. Reports suggest that EA is now focusing on developing its own major franchises. The planned Iron Man, Black Panther, and third Star Wars: Jedi titles are still in progress despite the changes. Additionally, it seems that Mass Effect 5 is still on track, although fans may have to wait until after BioWare completes Dragon Age: Dreadwolf before returning to the beloved Mass Effect universe.
Editor's P/S:
The recent layoffs within the gaming industry, including Electronic Arts, are concerning, but it's reassuring to know that BioWare remains committed to developing Mass Effect 5. The studio's dedication to the franchise, despite the setbacks, is a testament to the game's enduring popularity.
While the article provides some details about the upcoming installment, it leaves us yearning for more concrete information. The hints about the Geth, Angara, and potentially resolving the Mass Effect 3 endings are intriguing and have sparked our curiosity. We eagerly anticipate further updates from BioWare as they progress in developing the next chapter in the Mass Effect saga.