Ex-Dragon Age Writer Shares Thoughts on Veilguard Live-Service Proposal

The creative minds behind Dragon Age: The Veilguard have recently clashed with EA over some comments suggesting that the game might have fared better with live-service elements. Despite the company’s hopes, the game only shifted 1.5 million copies, falling short of sales expectations. Now, with fans wary of potential live-service tactics in Mass Effect 5, the gaming community is anxiously waiting for news.

The former creative director of Dragon Age: The Veilguard didn’t hesitate to respond to EA’s recent claims that the game might have seen greater success as a live-service venture. Originally envisioned with such elements, The Veilguard ultimately took a solo path during its development. Franchise enthusiasts were initially delighted by its release in October 2024, but optimism dimmed as the game missed EA’s sales targets, only moving 1.5 million units. Despite initial praise from gamers, backlash ensued, with criticisms targeting its so-called “woke” themes and less-than-impressive storyline. In stark contrast, Dragon Age: Inquisition, released a decade earlier in 2014, snagged multiple Game of the Year awards. Fans quickly turned a critical eye toward BioWare and EA for The Veilguard’s perceived failures, disappointed after the legacy set by Inquisition. Now, the developer addresses some of EA’s recent—and frankly, out-of-touch remarks.

Recently, Andrew Wilson, EA’s top executive, suggested that adding more multiplayer aspects might have improved The Veilguard’s performance. This comment sparked immediate online criticism. In response, Mike Laidlaw, Dragon Age’s longtime creative director, spoke out via Bluesky, as reported by Eurogamer. He questioned the logic behind transforming a successful single-player game into a purely multiplayer experience, humorously suggesting he’d probably leave his job rather than see such a drastic change, which he indeed did after The Veilguard’s live-service plans were first announced.

Furthermore, David Gaider, who penned the first trio of Dragon Age games, chimed in on social media. He shared his perspective on the decision-makers at EA and their inclination towards live-service games, advising them to cherish what originally captured their audience’s hearts. He pointed to the massive success of single-player games like Baldur’s Gate 3 as a sign of the potential they might be overlooking.

In January 2025, the aftermath of The Veilguard’s tepid reception saw layoffs amidst the team behind the project, with director Corinne Busche also stepping away from the company. This reshuffling left many speculating about Dragon Age’s future. Players’ anxiety now turns to Mass Effect 5, currently in pre-production. With EA’s seeming enthusiasm for live-service formats despite its historical single-player roots, fans are right to be on edge about what changes might be in store.