BioWare’s Mike Laidlaw, the veteran writer, designer and creative director known for his work on Mass Effect and Dragon Age, announced today that he’s leaving the studio after more than a decade with the company.
“It’s with a mix of emotions that I’m announcing my time with BioWare has ended,” Laidlaw said in a statement posted to Twitter. “After 14 years and a chance to work on Jade Empire, Mass Effect and all things Dragon Age it’s time for me to move on.
“In my time at BioWare I have been lucky to work with some of the most talented and hardworking people in the industry. It’s been an honor to be a part of the Dragon Age team, and I have every confidence that the world we’ve created together is in good hands and I’m excited for the road ahead.”
Laidlaw did not explain the reasons for his departure from the studio. He said he plans to spend time “reconnecting with all the amazing games and worlds that my peers have created.”
— Mike Laidlaw (@Mike_Laidlaw) October 12, 2017
Laidlaw joined BioWare in 2003, according to his LinkedIn profile. His credits include lead story developer and designer for Jade Empire; lead designer and director on the first three Dragon Age games; and creative director for the Dragon Age franchise.
Laidlaw’s departure from BioWare comes more than a year after series lead writer David Gaider announced that he was leaving the studio after a 17-year tenure.
Publisher Electronic Arts has not announced a fourth main entry in the Dragon Age franchise. Reports from earlier this year indicated that BioWare was working on a new Dragon Age title.
There have been three Dragon Age games to date: 2009’s Dragon Age: Origins, 2011’s Dragon Age 2 and 2014’s Dragon Age: Inquisition.