Ex-BioWare Dev Alleges EA Pulled Rainbow-Like Flag From Mass Effect Video
A former BioWare developer told BFM that EA ordered staff to remove a flag resembling the LGBTQIA+ flag from a Mass Effect: Universe presentation video.
A former BioWare developer has alleged that EA had staff remove a flag "too similar to the LGBTQIA+ flag" from a presentation video for the in-progress fifth Mass Effect game, according to BFM. The developer spoke anonymously to the French outlet.
The same developer said the game was titled Mass Effect: Universe. They also said the video proposals presented to new management were not convincing, and that BioWare's reputation for inclusive stories fed skepticism from the new owners.
After the EA buyout, BioWare was closed and Mass Effect 5 was cancelled. The $55 billion EA buyout was by Saudi Arabia's private investment fund, Jared Kushner's Affinity Partners and private equity fund Silver Lake. Before the buyout, EA staff said they feared the new Saudi Arabian owners would police their games. Saudi Arabian covers of The Sims had previously been changed to remove LGBTQIA+ representation.
Quick answers
What was the working title of Mass Effect 5?
According to a former BioWare developer who spoke anonymously to BFM, the in-progress fifth Mass Effect game was titled Mass Effect: Universe.
Why was the flag removed from the Mass Effect presentation?
The developer alleged EA had staff remove a flag "too similar to the LGBTQIA+ flag" from a presentation video so as not to cause offense.