Avi Lewis, leader of the New Democratic Party and a prominent opposition figure in Canada, has publicly urged the Canadian government to intervene and save Mass Effect developer BioWare. The call comes in response to publisher Electronic Arts' recent announcement of significant restructuring, project cancellations, and studio closures.
On October 21, EA revealed a strategic shift that included closing BioWare's Edmonton studio and resulted in approximately 400 layoffs. The studio, renowned for its work on the Mass Effect and Dragon Age franchises, had been in operation for over three decades. Reports indicate that 50 employees were working on the next Mass Effect title at the time of the closure.
Lewis attributed BioWare's situation to EA's recent acquisition by an investor group comprising Saudi Arabia's Public Investment Fund, Silver Lake, and Affinity Partners. Since the acquisition, EA has reportedly prioritized its main brands, such as Battlefield and sports titles, leading to the sidelining of other series.
"This is private equity, this is what it does. Buy up businesses, run them into the ground, and rip them apart for short-term profit," Lewis stated on social media platform X. He proposed that the developers at BioWare should be given the "first opportunity — and the federal support — to buy it and run it themselves." Lewis further argued for keeping private equity out of the Canadian gaming industry to prevent similar outcomes.
Canada has a history of supporting its video game development sector through federal and provincial tax relief, making it an attractive location for studios. This background suggests a governmental understanding of the economic value the gaming industry brings.
Industry analysts have discussed the possibility of EA selling off BioWare's major franchises, including Mass Effect and Dragon Age. The company's decision to close BioWare is also under scrutiny by industry experts.
Separately, a trailer for the purportedly canceled Mass Effect game, featuring elements such as alien interactions and a title "Mass Effect Universe," recently leaked online.
BioWare has been recognized for its significant contributions to the RPG genre, notably for pioneering the conversation wheel mechanic, which has since become a common feature in many role-playing games. Upcoming titles like The Expanse: Osiris Reborn and Exodus are noted for drawing inspiration from the Mass Effect series.