Mass Effect 5 is making progress in development, despite the recent layoffs at BioWare. Executive producer (Michael Gamble) has assured fans that the long-awaited sequel is definitely on its way. The game was first announced back in 2020 and it is currently in pre-production. This means it’s still in the early stages and not ready for full-scale development yet. In January 2025, EA made changes at BioWare by moving some employees to different studios and laying off others.
This decision raised concerns (because) it seemed like a reaction to the disappointing performance of Dragon Age: The Veilguard. Many fans worried that these changes might impact Mass Effect 5, especially since layoffs in 2024 had already caused anxiety about the game’s future. However, Gamble reassured the community on Twitter that the Mass Effect team is still working hard. The latest layoffs haven’t stopped development. Although he didn’t give specific details, his comments support earlier reports that the game is still in its early planning stages.
What’s Next for Mass Effect 5?
With Mass Effect 5 still in pre-production, it’s hard to say when fans will receive more specific updates. The sci-fi RPG series has a big following and after the mixed reception of Mass Effect: Andromeda (2017), expectations are really high. However, the current state of the industry (which has many layoffs and project cancellations) makes long-term game development more unpredictable.
Although BioWare’s internal changes might not affect the game right away, only time will tell how they will influence Mass Effect 5’s long-term progress. For now, fans can take some comfort in knowing that, because of these challenges, Commander Shepard’s legacy is still alive and well. With Mass Effect 5 confirmed to still be on track for release despite the recent layoffs at Bioware, fans are eagerly waiting for further announcements on the highly anticipated title as its launch date draws closer.
