This year's N7 Day, traditionally a celebration of BioWare's Mass Effect franchise, has become a focal point for fans, developers, and policymakers to rally in support of the series' future. The timing coincides with the recent and unexpected closure of BioWare, the studio responsible for Mass Effect, Dragon Age, and other acclaimed titles, amidst a controversial acquisition of EA by private equity holders.
Frustrated by the studio's shuttering just weeks before the annual commemoration, fans have intensified their campaign to ensure the Mass Effect series receives its due. "The hardworking people who made Mass Effect deserve to see their vision through," stated Mass Effect composer Sam Hulick in a video message, joined by much of the original trilogy's voice cast, expressing a shared sentiment of not being ready for the story to end. The collective effort is being organized under the hashtag #SaveMassEffect.
This push has manifested in various public displays. Billboards and trucks bearing messages for the "Save Mass Effect" movement have appeared in locations across North America, including Times Square, Wales, Texas, California, and Edmonton, BioWare's home base. Developers and voice actors from other games have also lent their support, with Kellen Goff of Five Nights at Freddy's sharing his thoughts on the series' importance. Owlcat Games, currently working on an RPG inspired by The Expanse, released a video reminiscing about Mass Effect and noted their hiring of Dragon Age writer David Gaider.
Unexpectedly, political figures have also weighed in. Avi Lewis, leader of Canada's New Democratic Party, voiced concerns over EA's actions and private equity's influence, suggesting stronger policies to protect Canadian businesses and even federal government intervention. NDP member of parliament Don Davies has also backed the petition, sharing a photoshopped image of himself as Commander Shepard.
The campaign is employing multiple strategies to gain traction. Beyond public demonstrations and online advocacy, fans are aiming to make a strong case by encouraging a high number of simultaneous players on the original Mass Effect game. This organized effort seeks to make their voices undeniable, even as trucks carrying "Save Mass Effect" messages circle EA's Redwood headquarters and graffiti bearing the slogan appears on EA offices in Madrid. News regarding a massive restoration of BioWare's back catalog, which could have been a cause for celebration, has been largely overshadowed by the ongoing fan campaign and the comments it has generated online.