Writers who contributed to the now-canceled Mass Effect 5 have spoken out about their experiences, describing the project as a "glorious challenge" and "the most energizing, in-the-zone collaboration" they'd encountered. These accounts emerge in the wake of EA's decision to shut down BioWare and cancel the anticipated sequel.
Catherynne M. Valente, author of the Mass Effect novel Mass Effect: Andromeda Annihilation, revealed on Twitter that she had been a writer on the game for three years. She expressed devastation at the project's end, stating, "I smiled every day. I worked HARD for the fans, every day." Valente countered claims that the project was in turmoil, asserting that the team "were working on a great game" and had made good progress.
Valente also clarified that she was not involved in previous BioWare titles like Mass Effect: Andromeda, Anthem, or Dragon Age: The Veilguard, addressing criticisms that conflated her work on the canceled Mass Effect 5 with those other projects.
Derek Künsken, author of the Quantum Universe novels, confirmed he had worked on Mass Effect 5 intermittently for five years. He echoed Valente's sentiments about the collaborative spirit, calling his work with her on character and lore "the most energizing, in-the-zone collaboration" of his career. Künsken also noted the talent within the team, stating, "There are too many great people to mention right now. All 50 deserve to be lauded and to land safely in new jobs." He hopes to share more details once the emotional impact has subsided.
Details about Mass Effect 5 were scarce since its 2020 announcement, but initial teasers suggested a narrative bridging the Milky Way and Andromeda galaxies. The return of Liara T'Soni from the original trilogy and the appearance of the Angara, an alien race introduced in Mass Effect: Andromeda, mingling with other Milky Way species hinted at a significant crossover event. These elements suggested a story where a Milky Way team would respond to a distress call from Andromeda.