After launching in 2019, BioWare and EA’s online action game, Anthem, is officially shutting down its servers on January 12, 2026. This marks the end of a challenging chapter for the studio behind hit single-player RPGs like Dragon Age and Mass Effect.
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When Anthem first arrived, it aimed to be a major player in the live-service shooter world, pitting players in powerful Javelin mech suits against dangerous foes in a vibrant, expansive world. However, despite its ambitious premise and striking visuals, the game struggled significantly after launch, facing criticism for its lack of content, technical issues, and a story that didn’t quite meet BioWare’s high standards.
What Was Anthem All About?
Anthem was a third-person shooter designed for co-op play. Players took on the role of Freelancers, mercenaries who wore advanced exosuits called Javelins. There were different types of Javelins, each with unique abilities, letting players fly through the air, explore large maps, and engage in combat using weapons and special powers. The idea was to offer a constantly evolving online experience with new content and challenges over time, similar to games like Destiny 2 or Warframe.
A Rocky Start and Missed Potential
From the beginning, Anthem‘s development was reportedly difficult, as BioWare navigated creating a constantly updated online game alongside their traditional strengths in single-player narratives. Upon release, many players felt the game was unfinished, lacking the depth expected from a BioWare title and the persistent engagement needed for a live service.
Anthem gameplay screenshot showing players flying in colorful Javelin mech suits over a fantasy landscape.
BioWare did attempt to improve the game post-launch, releasing updates and even proposing a major overhaul known as “Anthem 2.0” or “Anthem NEXT.” This planned rework aimed to address core issues, including loot progression, endgame content, and Javelin customization. Concepts discussed included improving loot drops, adding new enemy types like sky pirates, and allowing for more complex character builds.
The Decision to End Development
Ultimately, in early 2021, EA and BioWare decided to cease further development on Anthem, including canceling the planned rework. This decision allowed BioWare to focus its resources back on its core franchises, leading to the release of Mass Effect Legendary Edition and continued work on the upcoming Dragon Age: The Veilguard. While disappointing for the remaining players and the development team who envisioned its potential, the end of Anthem‘s development allowed BioWare to pivot.
Anthem’s Surprising Sales and Enduring Legacy
Despite its public struggles, Anthem wasn’t a complete commercial failure. Reports indicated the game sold around 5 million copies in its lifetime, suggesting an initial burst of interest. While its active player base dwindled significantly over time, the servers have remained online for several years since development stopped, a relatively long lifespan for a live-service game that didn’t meet expectations.
Anthem‘s story is a complex one in video game history. It’s often cited as an example of the challenges in creating new live-service experiences and the pressures developers can face. However, it also represents an ambitious attempt to blend BioWare’s strengths with a new genre. Even with its flaws, some players found enjoyment in the core gameplay loop, particularly the unique feeling of flying in the Javelin suits and teaming up with friends.
The fact that the servers are staying online until early 2026 gives current and former players ample time to revisit the world of Anthem for one last flight. While it may not have achieved the enduring success of its live-service contemporaries, its legacy serves as a valuable lesson in game development and the high-stakes world of online gaming. It’s a reminder that not every ambitious project takes flight, but sometimes the journey itself, even a challenging one, leaves its mark.
