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According to the announcement, the change was required to ensure that "Dragon Age: Dreadwolf is an outstanding game".
Image Credit: BioWare, Mass Effect
BioWare's General Manager Gary McKay has recently issued a lengthy statement, offering insights into the studio's current situation and its plans going forward. As a part of this announcement, McKay stated that BioWare had to lay off "approximately 50" employees as a component of the studio's creative reshuffle and transition efforts, in order to better match BioWare's "changing needs".
"In order to meet the needs of our upcoming projects, continue to hold ourselves to the highest standard of quality, and ensure BioWare can continue to thrive in an industry that’s rapidly evolving, we must shift towards a more agile and more focused studio," the statement reads. "To achieve this, we find ourselves in a position where change is not only necessary, but unavoidable. As part of this transition, we are eliminating approximately 50 roles at BioWare. That is deeply painful and humbling to write. We are doing everything we can to ensure the process is handled with empathy, respect, and clear communication."
As per McKay's statement, the affected employees will receive professional support, resources, and assistance from BioWare to help them navigate through this transition:
"We've chosen to act now in part to provide our impacted colleagues with as many internal opportunities as possible," McKay said. "These changes coincide with a significant number of roles that are currently open across EA's other studios. Impacted employees will be provided with professional resources and assistance as they apply for these positions. While it's unlikely that everyone will find a new role within the company, we are committed to supporting our staff as they navigate this change."
The announcement also unveils that the layoffs were a necessary measure to fulfill the company's new long-term vision designed to "preserve the health of the studio" and enhance their ability to create the story-driven, single-player experiences they are famous for. This vision strikes a balance between the studio's current priorities – namely, "ensuring Dragon Age: Dreadwolf is an outstanding game" – and its future endeavors, including the success of the upcoming Mass Effect installment.
"If you're wondering how all of this will impact development of Dragon Age: Dreadwolf, let me be clear that our dedication to the game has never wavered. Our commitment remains steadfast, and we all are working to make this game worthy of the Dragon Age name. We are confident that we'll have the time needed to ensure Dreadwolf reaches its full potential.
I can also tell you that every member of our team, even those departing BioWare, deserves credit for crafting a spectacular experience. These are our colleagues and friends, and we would not be here without them. I am so proud of all the work our team has done."
Furthermore, McKay revealed that the fifth installment in the Mass Effect series is still in pre-production:
"While this is an extremely difficult day for everyone at BioWare, we are making changes now to build a brighter future. We're excited for all of you to see what we've been building with Dreadwolf. A core veteran team led by Mike Gamble continues their pre-production work on the next Mass Effect. Our commitment to quality continues to be our North Star."
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