Save Mass Effect Petition Hits 200k Signatures?
The petition calling on BioWare to “Save Mass Effect” has surpassed 200,000 signatures, a milestone that reflects widespread fan dissatisfaction with the current state of the franchise. As of this writing, the Change.org petition has over 210,000 supporters, though it remains far below the 250,000 goal set by its creator. The petition’s core demand is that BioWare abandon its current direction—which fans associate with the controversial ending of Mass Effect 3 and the mixed reception of Mass Effect: Andromeda—and instead develop a sequel that directly continues the story of Commander Shepard.
Background: Why the Petition Started
The petition was launched in November 2020 by a fan named “Mr. T,” who argued that the Mass Effect trilogy’s ending (specifically the “Synthesis” and “Control” options) left the story incomplete. The creator and many signatories believe that the original trilogy’s narrative arc was meant to culminate in a final confrontation with the Reapers, and that the 2012 ending—which offered three choices that all resulted in the destruction of the Mass Relays—betrayed the series’ themes of choice and consequence. The petition gained momentum during the lead-up to the release of Mass Effect: Legendary Edition in May 2021, as fans revisited the trilogy and re-engaged with the debate over its ending.
What the Petition Asks For
The petition’s demands are specific and have evolved over time. The original text called for BioWare to “make a new game that continues the story of Commander Shepard,” but subsequent edits have clarified that the goal is a direct sequel set after the events of Mass Effect 3, ignoring the “Destroy” ending that is canon in the expanded universe. Key requests include:
- Resurrect Commander Shepard as the playable protagonist
- Set the game after the Reaper War, with the Mass Relays intact
- Include the original voice actors (Mark Meer and Jennifer Hale) and key companions
- Use the Unreal Engine 5 or a comparable modern engine
- Retain the dialogue wheel and moral choice system from the original trilogy
It’s important to note that the petition is not an official BioWare survey; it’s a fan-led initiative. BioWare has not publicly responded to the petition, and the company’s current focus is on the next Dragon Age game and a new Mass Effect title that was announced in December 2020 via a teaser image showing an Andromeda galaxy and a figure resembling Liara T’Soni.
How the Petition Works
Petitions on Change.org are straightforward: a creator starts a campaign, sets a signature goal, and shares it via social media. Signatures are counted as unique email-verified accounts, and the platform displays the total publicly. The “Save Mass Effect” petition reached 100,000 signatures in early 2021, and the 200,000 mark was crossed in late 2023. The petition’s growth has been steady rather than viral, with spikes occurring around major Mass Effect announcements or anniversaries. The platform’s algorithm promotes petitions that gain momentum, but there is no guarantee that a petition will receive a response from the target.
Common Misconceptions
One common misconception is that the petition is a direct request to remaster the original trilogy—that was already done with Legendary Edition. Another is that the petition is about boycotting BioWare or EA; in fact, the petition’s language is supportive, asking BioWare to “return to what made Mass Effect great.” A third misconception is that the petition’s goal is to have the original ending changed retroactively. The creator has stated that they do not expect the existing games to be altered, but rather that the next installment should honor the original trilogy’s legacy by continuing Shepard’s story.
BioWare’s Official Response (or Lack Thereof)
As of now, BioWare has not issued any formal statement regarding the petition. The studio’s public communications have focused on the upcoming Mass Effect game, which is in early development under the leadership of Mike Gamble, who served as producer on the original trilogy. In a 2021 N7 Day blog post, BioWare acknowledged fan passion but did not mention the petition specifically. The studio has stated that the next Mass Effect will be a “new story” that respects the trilogy’s choices, but it has not confirmed whether Shepard will appear. The lack of response is typical for large studios, which often view petitions as one of many signals of fan sentiment.
What the Future Holds
The petition’s 200,000-signature milestone is notable but unlikely to force a change in BioWare’s plans. The company has already announced a new Mass Effect game, and it’s in pre-production. The petition’s creators and supporters hope that the sheer volume of signatures will influence the writing team to incorporate elements of the petition’s demands, such as Shepard’s return. However, game development is driven by creative vision, budget, and technical constraints, not just fan input. The next Mass Effect is expected to release on PC, PlayStation 5, and Xbox Series X|S, likely after Dragon Age: Dreadwolf, which has no confirmed release date.
Frequently Asked Questions
Will the petition actually change BioWare’s plans?
Probably not directly. BioWare already had a new Mass Effect in development before the petition gained traction. However, petitions can demonstrate market demand, and studios do monitor fan sentiment. The petition’s existence may reinforce the team’s decision to include nostalgic elements, but it’s unlikely to dictate the core story.
Is the petition only about the ending of Mass Effect 3?
No, it’s broader. The petition’s text criticizes the ending’s lack of closure, but it also expresses disappointment with Mass Effect: Andromeda’s direction and the overall handling of the franchise after the original trilogy. The primary demand is a sequel that continues Shepard’s story.
How many signatures does the petition have now?
As of this writing, the petition has over 210,000 signatures. The goal is 250,000. The number changes daily, so it’s best to check the Change.org page for the most current count.
Has BioWare ever responded to fan petitions before?
BioWare has acknowledged fan feedback in the past, but not through formal responses to petitions. For example, the Mass Effect 3 extended cut was released after fan outcry over the original ending, but that was a direct response to widespread criticism, not a petition. The studio typically communicates via blog posts, social media, and community forums.
What is the “canon” ending of Mass Effect 3?
BioWare has never officially declared a canon ending. However, the Mass Effect: Legendary Edition includes a new epilogue that implies the “Destroy” ending is the one that leads to the next game, as it is the only ending that allows for the survival of Shepard (if you have enough war assets). The upcoming Mass Effect game is expected to follow the “Destroy” ending, as the teaser image shows a destroyed Reaper.
Is there any chance Shepard will return in the next game?
It’s possible, but not confirmed. The teaser image for the next Mass Effect shows a figure that resembles Liara, not Shepard. However, the image also includes a N7 armor fragment, which could hint at Shepard’s involvement. The petition’s goal is to make Shepard the protagonist, but BioWare has not commented on this.
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