Veteran actors Jennifer Hale and Mark Meer, who voiced the female and male Commanders Shepard in the Mass Effect series, have spoken out about the recent closure of BioWare. The pair addressed fans during an Instagram Live session on October 21, sharing their reflections on the studio's history and current predicament.
Hale expressed a mix of sadness and cautious hope, particularly concerning the fate of BioWare's intellectual properties. She voiced concern that the new ownership, which acquired EA, may not fully grasp the value of BioWare's franchises. "I don't know that they are fans of these IPs, and if they get the gold that they have in their hands," Hale stated. She speculated about the possibility of these IPs being sold to other entities, potentially allowing them to be revitalized.
"It's really hard to think about BioWare being shut down, but it was in the hands of ownership that may not have understood what BioWare fully is," Hale added. She even mused about the idea of a community-led crowdfunding effort, such as a Kickstarter, to acquire the rights to the games, though she acknowledged the immense cost involved.
Meer, a prominent figure in the Edmonton arts scene, focused on the closure's impact on the city and the industry. "It is very sad news... It is a massive loss for Edmonton, for Canada, and for the video game industry in general," he said. Meer highlighted BioWare's significance as an Edmonton-based company that contributed greatly to the local acting community. He also assured fans that the Mass Effect legacy would endure as long as they continue to celebrate it, pointing to upcoming events like N7 Day and the 20th anniversary of Mass Effect 1's release next year.
Both actors acknowledged the profound connection fans have to BioWare's creations, a sentiment that transcends corporate ownership and financial motivations. As the industry sees increased consolidation, Hale and Meer's statements underscore the emotional and creative legacy of studios like BioWare, leaving many to wonder if a benevolent figure or entity might step in to preserve these cherished game worlds.