Former BioWare executive Mark Darrah and Mass Effect voice actress Jennifer Hale have criticized Electronic Arts' handling of BioWare following the studio's closure, suggesting that its parent company never fully understood the developer's identity.
Their comments come as fans continue campaigning to save Mass Effect and Dragon Age, with a petition approaching 250,000 signatures.
Some supporters are now urging CD Projekt Red to acquire BioWare's intellectual properties, although neither company has announced discussions about a potential sale.
Jennifer Hale Hopes EA Will Consider Selling BioWare's Franchises
Jennifer Hale, best known for voicing the female Commander Shepard in the original Mass Effect trilogy, discussed BioWare's closure during an Instagram livestream.
She suggested that EA's leadership may not have fully appreciated the studio's creative strengths.
Hale also expressed hope that the publisher might eventually sell BioWare's franchises if doing so aligned with its financial priorities.
Such a decision could allow another developer to continue established properties, including Mass Effect and Dragon Age.
Hale has worked on several BioWare games, including Baldur's Gate II, Star Wars: Knights of the Old Republic, and Star Wars: The Old Republic.
Her comments reflect concerns about the future of franchises that remain associated with the developer's legacy.
Mark Darrah Questions EA's Original BioWare Acquisition
Former BioWare executive Mark Darrah offered a similar perspective during a recent interview.
Darrah argued that EA's acquisition of BioWare was partly incidental because the publisher was particularly interested in Pandemic Studios and the commercial potential of Star Wars projects.
The acquisition brought BioWare Edmonton, known for traditional role playing games, under EA's ownership.
Darrah believes the publisher struggled to determine how that development approach fit its broader business strategy.
He also suggested that EA's interest in live service gaming influenced its enthusiasm for Anthem, a project that ultimately experienced significant commercial difficulties.
Fans Want CD Projekt Red to Continue Mass Effect
Following BioWare's closure, fans have organized petitions and public advertising campaigns, including a Times Square billboard.
CD Projekt Red has emerged as a popular suggested buyer because of its experience developing narrative RPGs.
The company recently acknowledged BioWare's assistance with the original Witcher game, including access to the Aurora Engine and support during its early development.
However, that historical relationship does not indicate acquisition interest.
EA has not announced plans to sell Mass Effect or Dragon Age, leaving the franchises' future uncertain despite growing community support.
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