Key Dragon Age developers depart BioWare following Mass Effect 5 focus shift.
On January 29th, IGN reported that BioWare has reassigned numerous developers to other EA projects, fully concentrating on Mass Effect 5. General manager Gary McKay explained this restructuring as a strategic realignment during a period between development cycles. While many developers were successfully placed within EA, a smaller number of Dragon Age team members faced termination, with the option to apply for other internal roles.
This news prompted several high-profile BioWare departures. Editor Karin West-Weekes, narrative designer and lead writer on Dragon Age: The Veilguard Trick Weekes, and editor Ryan Cormier announced their job searches. Producer Jen Cheverie and senior systems designer Michelle Flamm also confirmed their exits. These departures follow 2023 layoffs and the recent departure of Dragon Age: The Veilguard director Corinne Busche.
EA's response to inquiries regarding the number of affected employees remained vague, stating that the studio is appropriately staffed for the current Mass Effect 5 development phase.
The recent release of Dragon Age: The Veilguard, the first new entry in the series in a decade, concluded last week with its final major update. The game's lackluster performance, including the absence of post-launch DLC and a reported 50% shortfall in sales expectations (1.5 million players versus the projected 3 million), has been widely documented. Previous reports have highlighted development challenges including layoffs and the departure of key personnel.
Meanwhile, EA confirmed that a veteran team, including Mike Gamble, Preston Watamaniuk, Derek Watts, and Parrish Ley, are leading the development of the next Mass Effect game.
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