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Fact check: Why is Bioware only capable of creating dogshit games now?
1. Summary of the results
The original statement's inflammatory characterization of BioWare's recent output is overly simplistic and lacks crucial context. While there has been a documented decline in certain aspects of game quality, particularly in writing and storytelling, this appears to be the result of specific strategic decisions rather than simple incompetence. The studio underwent a significant shift around 2016, moving away from its traditional focus on narrative excellence [1]. This change manifested in games like Mass Effect: Andromeda and Anthem, which showed notable departures from the studio's traditional strengths [1] [2].
2. Missing context/alternative viewpoints
Several important factors are missing from the original statement:
- BioWare made a deliberate business decision to shift away from viewing writing as a core asset, instead seeing it as an expensive "albatross" [1]
- The studio's attempt to appeal to a broader market through open-world design and simplified RPG mechanics has affected their traditional storytelling approach [2]
- BioWare is actively working to address these issues and has committed to creating "exceptional story-driven single-player experiences" [3]
- The studio is undergoing organizational restructuring specifically focused on improving their upcoming titles, Dragon Age: Dreadwolf and the next Mass Effect [3]
3. Potential misinformation/bias in the original statement
The original statement's hostile tone and absolute language ("only capable of creating dogshit games") ignores several key factors:
- The changes in game quality appear to be the result of conscious business decisions rather than pure incompetence [1]
- Different stakeholders have varying interests:
- Publishers and executives may benefit from broader market appeal and simplified gameplay mechanics [2]
- Traditional fans and writers like David Gaider represent those who valued the studio's original narrative-focused approach [1]
- The studio itself is attempting to find a balance between commercial success and maintaining their creative reputation [3]
The reality is more complex than the original statement suggests, involving business strategies, market pressures, and ongoing efforts to improve.