'We're now entering an era where the name BioWare won't show up anymore when discussing upcoming RPGs' — The game industry reacts to the shuttering of legendary Mass Effect and Dragon Age studio, BioWare

EA has announced the shutdown of BioWare, the studio behind popular RPGs like Mass Effect, Dragon Age, and Star Wars: Knights of the Old Republic. The closure comes after 30 years of pioneering choice-based RPG games, and as a result, the next Mass Effect project is canceled. BioWare laid off 400 employees across its studios, including 50 roles at the studio itself. The decision was made by parent company EA as part of major restructuring across its studios and projects.

Developers and creatives across the gaming industry have reacted to the news, expressing shock and sadness. Larian Studios CEO Swen Vincke described the announcement as "unimaginable" and a loss for the RPG genre. Casey Hudson, former BioWare GM and director of KOTOR and Mass Effect trilogy, called the news "sad on multiple fronts" and expressed gratitude for the games and stories created.

CD Projekt Red's joint-CEO also shared that BioWare has been a significant part of the company's history and a great help during their early days.

The gaming community has been left in shock, with many fans and industry professionals mourning the loss of a legendary studio that has shaped the RPG genre.