Former BioWare staff: LGBTQIA+ flag removed from Mass Effect pitch
Former BioWare employees told BFM TV that developers were asked to remove a flag resembling the LGBTQIA+ flag from a presentation video for the canceled Mass Effect Universe.
Former BioWare employees have told a BFM TV journalist that developers working on the canceled Mass Effect Universe game were asked to remove a flag from a presentation video because it looked too much like the LGBTQIA+ flag. The request was reportedly made so as not to offend, according to the accounts.
An anonymous employee said new management was unconvinced by the video proposals presented for Mass Effect Universe. The report does not say who made the request or whether the developers complied.
The employee also said BioWare is reportedly known for inclusive storytelling, which added to management skepticism. The accounts come from former staff speaking to the French outlet BFM TV.
Electronic Arts was bought out by Saudi Arabia's PIF, Jared Kushner's Affinity Partners and Silver Lake. In October 2025, the physical edition cover of The Sims 2 was modified for Saudi Arabia to remove a kissing couple and an alien. The EA acquisition has worried fans who advocate for LGBTQ rights about BioWare's future. Mass Effect, Dragon Age and The Sims have long included same-sex romance.
Quick answers
What did former BioWare employees say about Mass Effect Universe?
They told BFM TV that developers were asked to remove a flag resembling the LGBTQIA+ flag from a presentation video for the canceled game.
Did the developers comply with the request?
The report does not say who made the request or whether the developers complied.
Why was the flag removal requested?
According to the report, the request was made so as not to offend.