A recent controversy arose when Larian Studios’ publishing director, Michael Douse, strongly criticized EA following the layoffs of many skilled employees at BioWare. Douse remarked on social media about the significance of retaining experienced personnel, emphasizing that such layoffs affect crucial institutional knowledge needed for future game development.

This situation began to unravel after BioWare faced challenges with its recent title, Dragon Age: The Veilguard, leading to a significant portion of the development team being let go. Many seasoned developers, including those pivotal in crafting the Dragon Age and Mass Effect franchises, were affected.

In response to the layoffs, Douse lamented that the gaming industry could benefit from more thoughtful management strategies that prioritize talent retention even during financial strains. He stated, “It is possible not to lay off large parts of your development teams between or after projects. Retaining… institutional knowledge is key for the next game.”

Douse made it clear that swift and aggressive layoffs seldom lead to long-term solutions, likening the circumstances to a pirate crew tossing its captain overboard in times of crisis.