Yet another senior developer bolts Bioware's Mass Effect: Andromeda team
We're not exactly sure what's going on at Bioware, but it can't be good. After losing lead writer Chris Schlerf to Bungie's Destiny team as well as the game's Director of Development, Bioware has lost yet another key member of the development staff behind Mass Effect: Andromeda.
Cameron Harris, who has worked on some major titles that include Star Wars: The Old Republic, Guild Wars 2, Dragon Age: Inquisition, Fable, and Gears of War 3, has decided to leave the gaming industry altogether, effective mid-April. The renowned developer had carved out an impressive reputation for being one of the best in the industry, which is what makes her abrupt decision all the more head scratching. She took to Twitter to explain the decision:
I've decided to exit the video-game industry to return to Seattle for new opportunities there. I'll be leaving BioWare in mid-April.
— Cameron Harris (@camharr) March 4, 2016
I had a great time at BioWare, working with so many talented, passionate folks. I'm grateful for everything you taught me over the years.
— Cameron Harris (@camharr) March 4, 2016
I wish all the best for my friends and colleagues at BioWare and across the games industry. You are some of the finest people I know.
— Cameron Harris (@camharr) March 4, 2016
And to the fans especially: thank you for all of your enthusiasm and support over the past several years while I did this games thang. <3
— Cameron Harris (@camharr) March 4, 2016
Fin. And see y'all back in Seattle!
— Cameron Harris (@camharr) March 4, 2016
It's hard to speculate what's been going on with Andromeda given that the three people that left haven't really said anything since, especially in Harris' case given that she'll be with them until April. While the game is slated to be on target for next April, it can't be a great confidence booster to Bioware, given that it's the third major staff member to leave.
Developer burnout in the industry is a major issue with the industry as well, and while we don't know why Harris has opted to leave the industry altogether, one can make an assumption that it could be that. Developers work insanely long hours to meet deadlines and can wear themselves out. Being in the industry for ten years and working on the titles that Harris has helped put together, you can only imagine the pressure she dealt with.
Bioware has not commented on Harris' departure.
