Despite the prolonged silence around Mass Effect 5, fans of the saga can finally breathe. During the N7 Day celebrations, BioWare took the stage to confirm that development of the next installment is moving forward. “The next Mass Effect game is in development, and EA and BioWare remain committed to further exploring this universe”said Mike Gambleexecutive producer of the license.
After the failure of Mass Effect Andromeda and the internal reorganization at EA following a $55 billion takeover, some feared that the saga would be put on pause. Gamble wanted to reassure: “the team is fully focused on Mass Effect”.
An assumed return to the narrative DNA of the saga
Beyond this confirmation, one point particularly caught the attention of players: the official return of romance system. An essential mechanic for many fans, who experienced unforgettable emotional arcs in Mass Effect 2 and 3.
In his statement, Gamble said: “We have a huge universe to explore, many features to develop and many love stories to implement”. A promise which marks the return of a pillar of the franchise’s narrative experience, where relationships between characters can evolve over the course of choices and events experienced.
Fragmented but controlled communication
No gameplay yet, nor release date, but a well-established teaser strategy. Gamble also invites players to remain attentive: “you are all hungry for information and I can see that you are looking for hidden meanings in my tweets (well, sometimes they have them)”. A wink that revives the spirit of community, still marked by the cryptic mysteries of old episodes.
As a final word, the producer assures: “We’re excited about what we’re building, and we promise you: When we’re ready, it will be a blast to show it to you.”
Mass Effect 5 therefore seems determined to win back the hearts of fans. And if the wait will still be long, the simple fact of seeing the word “romance” in an official press release is enough to reignite the flame.