The recent performance of two major releases from EA has sparked conversations among fans and industry analysts alike. Expectations surrounding these titles were high, but sales figures have led to disappointment for both the organization and its community of players.
Dragon Age: The Veilguard, while appreciated by some audiences, did not quite fulfill the lofty hopes of its dedicated followers. The discussions surrounding the game, including debates over its themes and a protracted development cycle marred by numerous changes, contributed to a sense of trepidation about BioWare's future. This concern is amplified by past disappointments such as Anthem and Mass Effect: Andromeda, leading many to question the studio's direction.
According to a recent announcement from EA, Dragon Age: The Veilguard reached around 1.5 million players in 2024. This figure is notably lower than the anticipated 3 million, highlighting a significant shortfall. The figure of 1.5 million also raises further concerns as it includes players who accessed the game through EA's Play Pro subscription service, indicating that many engaged with the title at no extra cost. It may even encompass individuals who experienced the game through a trial offered by EA Play.
In addition to Dragon Age: The Veilguard, EA Sports FC 25 also failed to meet its projected sales, contributing to an overall downturn for the company this fiscal year, which ends on April 1st. While EA had hoped the football franchise would build on its previous successes, the latest installment saw a slight decline. Unlike Dragon Age, however, EA Sports FC 25 holds potential for recovery through microtransactions, which means BioWare stands in a more precarious position. This pressure is further complicated by recent changes in the studio's leadership, especially with one of its directors departing and the next installment of Mass Effect still several years away.