What the Save Mass Effect Petition Really Means for Fans

The petition shows how strongly players are attached to Mass Effect, even if it's unlikely to sway EA. It also fuels wider concern about the future of games under the EA banner.

The petition shows how strongly players are attached to Mass Effect, even if it's unlikely to sway EA. It also fuels wider concern about the future of games under the EA banner.

Key points - A Change.org petition called #SaveMassEffect has surpassed 180,000 verified signatures. - EA shut down BioWare and canceled Mass Effect 5 after its acquisition by Saudi Arabia's PIF, Silver Lake and Affinity Partners. - The petition asks EA to continue Mass Effect development or license the IP to another studio. - Signers are sharing personal memories of the series alongside their signatures. - The petition does not call for EA to reverse its decision to close BioWare.

Timeline - Last week: EA shuts down BioWare and cancels Mass Effect 5 following its acquisition. - Days later: Fans comb through leaked remains of the canceled next Mass Effect game. - Now: The #SaveMassEffect Change.org petition passes 180,000 verified signatures.

FAQ

Q: What does the Save Mass Effect petition ask for? A: It asks EA to commit to continued development of Mass Effect, or alternatively to license the IP to another studio that shares the passion and vision to keep it alive.

Q: Does the petition ask EA to reopen BioWare? A: No. It focuses on keeping the Mass Effect series going rather than reversing the studio closure decision.

Q: Will the petition actually change EA's plans? A: EA isn't beholden to digital petitions, and the chances of a reversal are considered low — but the petition has become a rallying point for fans.