The gaming community buzzes with concern as EA has finalized a $55 billion deal to go private under Saudi investment. This acquisition marks the most significant leveraged buyout on record, leaving EA burdened with substantial debt and under pressure to boost profits. Critics argue that this is part of a strategy by Saudi Arabia’s investment fund to ‘sportswash’ its reputation amidst widespread allegations of human rights abuses.

In discussions surrounding this shift at EA, former BioWare lead writer Patrick Weekes shared a satirical dialogue about future game content emphasizing themes like ‘guns and football’ while dismissing anything deemed politically sensitive.

“So your games… guns and football, yes?” “Mmhmm, mostly guns and football, yep.” “No gay stuff? No politics we’re not going to like?” “Haha, definitely not! I just need to shut down a studio real quick.”

The implications for BioWare, an esteemed RPG developer that has faced increasing criticism and significant layoffs, are alarming. Questions remain if the studio can sustain its legacy or if it could face further existential threats amid these changing tides.