Seven years have passed since Mass Effect Andromeda, the last entry in BioWare’s acclaimed sci-fi RPG series, hit the shelves. While Andromeda received mixed reactions for its departure from the original trilogy’s storyline, fans’ appetite for more Mass Effect content remains strong – and increasingly unsatisfied.
The existence of Mass Effect 5 isn’t in question; BioWare officially announced the project during The Game Awards 2020, following years of speculation. The announcement came with an intriguing teaser trailer suggesting a possible return of the beloved Normandy crew, featuring Liara T’Soni discovering fragments of their iconic ship. However, since that reveal, information has been notably scarce.
This prolonged silence has sparked discussions within the Mass Effect community. On Reddit’s r/masseffect, fans have expressed frustration with the lengthy development cycle.
One post from two years ago questioned,
“Is it me or is the next Mass Effect taking forever?”
The poster noted the significant gap between unofficial hints of development, the official announcement, and the continued lack of substantial updates.
However, some community members have offered perspective by comparing this timeline to other significant game developments. One top comment pointed out, “Skyrim was released 12 years ago. Grand Theft Auto V was released ten years ago, and Dragon Age: Inquisition was released nine years ago. In contrast, Mass Effect Andromeda is a mere six years old.”
Another crucial factor in the timeline is BioWare’s current focus on Dragon Age: Dreadwolf, which has been in development for nearly a decade and is scheduled for a 2024 release. As one fan noted, “Bioware won’t be releasing Mass Effect until after that,” suggesting an even longer wait for Mass Effect 5.
While the extended development period may test fans’ patience, it reflects the current reality of AAA game development cycles. Nevertheless, with such a passionate fanbase eagerly awaiting news, even minor updates about Mass Effect 5’s development could help maintain excitement and goodwill within the community.
For now, fans must continue exercising patience as they await their next journey through the Mass Effect universe. The hope remains that when Mass Effect 5 finally arrives, it will be worth the extended wait.
