EA to shutter BioWare studio, cut jobs as it narrows game slate

Electronic Arts (EA) announced on Wednesday that it plans to close BioWare, the studio responsible for hit role-playing game franchises like Mass Effect and Dragon Age, and lay off around 400 employees, comprising roughly 3% of its total workforce. The decision follows EA's focus on more profitable projects and a reduction in its game slate.

As per the email sent to employees, EA intends to cancel an early-stage Mass Effect project and shut down BioWare's Edmonton, Canada studio. This move marks the end of an era for the studio, known for its innovative role-playing games.

The company expects to cut around 400 jobs, primarily at BioWare, which accounts for approximately 50 positions. However, EA will continue the development of Marvel's Iron Man and the upcoming Star Wars Jedi game, signaling a shift towards large-scale action-adventure titles. Additionally, the skateboard simulation studio skate will be restructured into a smaller, more focused entity.

In a bid to support affected employees, EA assured them of assistance in exploring other opportunities within the company. The restructuring comes after EA underwent a $55 billion privatization led by Saudi Arabia's Public Investment Fund, Silver Lake, and Affinity Partners, which finalized in August.