Mass Effect: A Galactic Saga Still in the Works (Sort Of)
In a galaxy not so far away, the director of the next installment in the famed Mass Effect series has decided to dabble in a little comforting. Yes, fans will be ecstatic to know that the next game is still wandering through the cosmos of development, even if it’s taking the scenic route—complete with crickets and tumbleweeds.
It’s been two long years since a teaser floated down from the heavens, courtesy of the geniuses over at BioWare. With only a snazzy trailer to keep fans buzzing, the reality set in when EA, the parent company like that overbearing parent at the school play, decided to trim BioWare’s development team. No, not for misbehavior, but because they “needed to” cut ties with those who were part of the magical adventure, Dragon Age: The Veilguard. Whatever that means.
Then, just when a little hope almost sparked in the hearts of intergalactic travelers, the cloud of doom appeared: EA’s impending sale to private investors, which includes the notoriously deep-pocketed Saudi Arabian PIF. Analysts have speculated that this might lead EA to a financial black hole of $20 billion in debt. Yes, folks, that’s billion with a “b.” Naturally, such monetary magic might lead to some cuts—or worse—focusing solely on the franchises that predictably rake in the cash, which could spell doom for our beloved galaxy-hopping RPG.
Good News? Kinda…
Despite mounting speculation and countless sleepless nights for dedicated fans (who, let’s be honest, are probably still trying to figure out Mass Effect’s ending), Mass Effect executive producer Mike Gamble wielded the mighty power of an update on ‘N7 Day.’ In an attempt to quench the thirst for knowledge, he dropped a soothing balm on the rumor mill indicating the next game is, indeed, still in development.
“Like you, we’ve heard the rumors lately,” declared Gamble, probably through the haze of countless coffee cups. “You’ve made it clear you care deeply about what’s next. So let’s set the record straight: we’re still chugging along with the next Mass Effect. Fear not, loyal fans; the story isn’t over yet!”
A Busy BioWare and Future Mass Effect Adventures
The message continued on like a well-crafted side quest: “The truth is, the last few years have been packed tighter than a cargo hold on a Turian ship. Business has been brisk at BioWare, but right now, the team has their heads down, focused exclusively on Mass Effect. There’s an entire universe waiting to be explored, tons of features to create, and, yes, plenty of awkward romances to navigate.” Because who doesn’t love romance amid space chaos?
For those eagerly anticipating more than just a video game, the good news doesn’t stop there! Gamble spilled the beans about a live-action series on the horizon, being pieced together by Amazon. “Fear not! This won’t be a tired retread of Commander Shepard’s story—because that story is YOUR story, folks!” he reassured—because who doesn’t love a good rerun?
In November 2020, BioWare wowed fans with the declaration that a new Mass Effect game was in the works. Yet, some sources claim it could be a galaxy-sized wait until 2029 before this particular starship launches. One can only assume that warp speed is a bit too ambitious for the current timeline.
