Electronic Arts is implementing sweeping changes across its development studios, announcing today that it will lay off approximately 3% of its global workforce and shut down the renowned studio BioWare. The restructuring, which affects around 400 employees, comes as EA seeks to streamline its operations and focus on key franchises, according to multiple industry sources including Variety.
BioWare, the Canadian studio behind celebrated role-playing games such as Mass Effect and Dragon Age, will close its Edmonton office as part of the move. The decision follows EA’s choice to cancel development on the next installment of the Mass Effect series, a project that had been in progress at BioWare. According to reports, roughly 50 staff members at BioWare are included in the layoffs.
In a statement cited by Variety, EA executives acknowledged BioWare’s legacy, describing it as “a legendary studio that helped define the role-playing genre,” and said the decision to close it was not taken lightly. The company emphasized that the restructuring is intended to “deliver on a very clear roadmap” for its community and to build a more sustainable business.
As part of the reorganization, EA will combine the efforts of its Respawn Entertainment and DICE studios to collaborate on a new shooter project. Industry sources indicate this is likely to be a new entry in the Star Wars: Battlefront series, though EA has not officially confirmed the title.
EA said it will continue to invest in its other successful franchises, including the online shooter Apex Legends and its sports games lineup. Development is also ongoing for upcoming releases such as Marvel’s Iron Man and the next Star Wars Jedi game, according to people familiar with the company’s plans.
The layoffs and studio closure mark the first major restructuring at EA since the company went private earlier this year. The publisher last reported a workforce of approximately 14,500 employees, making today’s cuts a significant reduction in staff numbers.
BioWare’s closure brings an end to a studio that has been a major force in the video game industry for decades, known for its influential storytelling and role-playing mechanics. The cancellation of the next Mass Effect game leaves the future of the franchise uncertain, with no official word from EA on whether the series might be revived elsewhere within the company.
While EA has outlined its commitment to ongoing and upcoming projects, the full impact of the restructuring on other studios and franchises remains unclear. Industry observers will be watching closely for further announcements as the company moves forward with its new strategy.
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