BioWare co-founder: new Mass Effect would need about $200 million
Trent Oster said top-tier AAA expectations would push the budget to roughly $200 million or more, though a disciplined team could do it for less.
BioWare co-founder Trent Oster said a new Mass Effect game would need a budget of roughly $200 million or more, based on comparable AAA titles, in a social media post reported by gamesradar.com.
Oster said the audience would expect top-tier AAA development for Mass Effect, which drives the cost estimate upward.
He added that a new entry could be made well for less than $200 million with a disciplined approach and an experienced team.
A larger plan for the IP would be needed to make the financial math work, according to Oster.
Fan campaign seeks EA commitment
Oster's comments come as the #SaveMassEffect movement calls on EA to either commit to funding more Mass Effect games or sell or license the IP to another developer. The campaign's Change.org petition has gathered more than 300,000 signatures, and Oster recently voiced support for it.
Quick answers
How much would a new Mass Effect game cost?
BioWare co-founder Trent Oster estimated roughly $200 million or more, based on comparable AAA titles.
Could a new Mass Effect be made for less?
Oster said it could be made well for under $200 million with a disciplined approach and an experienced team.