Anthem is already dead in the water at this point in its lifecycle, but if we needed another nail in the coffin the departure of lead producer Ben Irving will certainly speak volumes for the final destination of EA’s Anthem.
On Irving’s personal Twitter account, he confirmed that he had decided to leave the studio in order to begin work at a new, unnamed video game studio.
(1/3) After 8 amazing years at BioWare I have made the decision to move on and have accepted an exciting opportunity at another gaming company. Since the first time I played Baldurs Gate many many years ago, BioWare was the dream place I always wanted to work.
— Ben Irving (@BenIrvo) August 15, 2019
(3/3) I have really enjoyed interacting with the Anthem community – Streams, Twitter and Reddit. Through the good times and the tough times. You all are in great hands with @Darokaz and @UNTDrew (and have been for some time now). I wish nothing but the best for all of you. Ben.
— Ben Irving (@BenIrvo) August 15, 2019
When Anthem first released, EA and Bioware promised years of content as well as an already fleshed out world and story. Still to this day none of those promises have seen the light of day.
Many have criticized the repetitiveness of Anthem, the lack of engaging story, the many promises that haven’t been fulfilled, and the failed support post-launch of the game.
While those who still hold out a little hope for Anthem’s future may be disappointed it what seems to be the final ring of death’s bell for the game, hopefully Irving finds greener pastures after leaving the studio.