Despite renewed enthusiasm for a fresh take on BioWare’s Anthem, its prospects may improve if integrated within one of BioWare’s more iconic franchises. Since the glory days of Dragon Age: Inquisition and the legendary Mass Effect trilogy, BioWare’s recent track record, highlighted by titles like Mass Effect: Andromeda and Dragon Age: The Veilguard, has been a mixed bag. Yet, Anthem’s launch was perhaps the starkest example of this inconsistency. Despite its shaky start, some players and even former producers see the potential in reigniting its spark.
Though the idea of bringing back Anthem as a standalone IP is premature, it’s hard to overlook the elements that made the game captivating—its gameplay and world-building. BioWare could capitalize on these strengths by integrating them into a more successful franchise. Aligning Anthem’s dynamic systems and engaging mechanics with the renowned Mass Effect universe might just be the golden ticket for a well-deserved revival.
Back when Mass Effect wrapped up its original trilogy and Dragon Age was basking in its 2014 Game of the Year accolade with Inquisition, BioWare’s decision to branch out with new IPs wasn’t far-fetched. However, venturing into the MMO realm with Anthem didn’t quite hit the mark, gathering critiques on its monotonous gameplay and frail plot. Even though BioWare made efforts to polish the game post-launch, development halted early in 2021.
Recent insights, spurred by EA’s remarks on The Veilguard’s mixed performance, highlight a live-service model could have been more favorable. This has rekindled interest in Anthem, despite its rocky initial outing. Social media is buzzing with clips showcasing its flight and combat mechanics, suggesting that the game was brimming with untapped potential. Still, the tarnished reputation lingers, and with EA focusing on established franchises for BioWare’s MMOs, a simple reboot of Anthem alone seems unlikely.
Integrating Anthem’s DNA into Mass Effect could be the ideal solution. Not only are there parallels between the two universes in terms of design and gameplay, but leveraging Mass Effect’s rich lore and fan base could amplify Anthem’s appeal. For instance, transforming Freelancers into Spectres, setting Fort Tarsis on the Citadel, or turning Anthem’s factions into familiar Mass Effect races and foes, like replacing the Scars with the Reapers, could bring fresh life and intrigue.
Even though there are assurances that Mass Effect 4 is underway, BioWare’s recent layoffs hint at an uncertain path, hinging on Mass Effect’s ongoing success. Aligning Anthem’s robust mechanics with Mass Effect could distribute the pressure, rejuvenating both worlds. Tapping into Anthem’s acclaimed combat and flight mechanics alongside the much-awaited Mass Effect 4 could fortify the franchise’s legacy, blending single-player narratives with MMO dynamics to secure BioWare’s future.
