Key information
Electronic Arts has officially announced the closure of BioWare, a move occurring alongside a broader restructuring that includes the layoff of 400 employees. This decision marks the end of a studio widely regarded as a pillar of RPG development.
Former lead writer David Gaider, who joined the studio in 1999, expressed deep sadness regarding the shutdown. Gaider noted that at its peak, BioWare functioned more like an institution than a standard company, asserting that no other studio in the world performed at its level.
Reflecting on the studio's history, Gaider recalled the release of Baldur's Gate II: Shadows of Amn in September 2000. Despite internal concerns regarding cut content and bugs, the team was overwhelmed by positive fan reception, which Gaider described as a pivotal moment that solidified his career path in the industry.
The closure follows the acquisition of EA by a consortium including Saudi Arabia's Public Investment Fund, Silver Lake, and Affinity Partners as of August 2026. Industry observers, including former staff, had anticipated the studio might be cut loose under the new ownership.
