The latest entry in the iconic Dragon Age series, Dragon Age: The Veilguard, has finally arrived, but its journey to release has been anything but smooth. This blog explores the various challenges and changes that shaped the development of this highly anticipated title.

A Rocky Road to Release

• Initial Vision and Reboots:
  • Development for the new Dragon Age game began with ambitious plans, initially titled Joplin, which aimed to create a more reactive and choice-driven experience.
  • However, in late 2017, the project was rebooted, shifting focus to a live-service model, which many within BioWare felt was not aligned with the franchise’s core identity.
• Leadership Changes:
  • The appointment of Gary McKay as studio head in 2020 marked a turning point. He recognized the need to return to a single-player experience, especially after the mixed reception of Anthem.
  • McKay’s leadership emphasized rebuilding the studio’s reputation and focusing on quality over quantity.

Challenges Faced During Development

• Pandemic Impact:
  • The COVID-19 pandemic introduced significant hurdles, forcing the team to adapt to remote work. This shift created cultural challenges and affected team cohesion.
  • The pandemic also delayed the game’s release, pushing it beyond its original timeline.
• Staffing Issues:
  • BioWare faced layoffs, with around 50 employees let go, including some key figures in the development team. This loss of talent added to the challenges of maintaining momentum and vision for the game.
  • McKay noted that a smaller, more focused team could lead to better outcomes, allowing for the right people to be in the right roles.