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In the gaming world, few titles have sparked as much debate as Anthem, BioWare’s ambitious attempt to step into the realm of live-service shooters. Following the recent shutdown of its servers on January 12, the conversation surrounding its legacy has intensified. Many players felt a deep sense of loss, while others reflected on what went wrong. Amidst this turmoil, former producer Mark Darrah has emerged as a vocal advocate for the game’s potential revival.
Originally launched in, Anthem was envisioned as a dynamic shared-world experience centered around customizable exosuits. However, despite its eye-catching trailers and intriguing gameplay mechanics, the game fell short of expectations, leading to a swift decline in its player base. Darrah, who had returned to lead the now-defunct Anthem Next overhaul, remains passionate about the game’s future and its fans.
A bold revival plan
In a recent video, Darrah outlined an ambitious plan to revive Anthem as a completely single-player RPG. This proposal, estimated to cost around $10 million, comes at a time when many believe the game deserves a second chance. Darrah’s vision emphasizes a narrative-driven experience, diverging from the original game’s focus on multiplayer interactions. By transforming Anthem into a single-player journey, he aims to recapture the essence that made BioWare a household name.
Technical upgrades and gameplay changes
The first step in this revival would involve significant upgrades to the game’s technical framework. By enhancing the graphics for modern consoles like the PlayStation 5 and potentially the Switch 2, Darrah believes that players could enjoy a smoother experience, targeting a locked 60 frames per second and improved visuals. He pointed out that an offline mode was feasible, as the game had internal server code even before its initial launch.
In addition to technical enhancements, a new focus on AI-controlled companions could replace the original multiplayer requirements, enabling players to savor a more immersive storytelling experience. This approach aligns with BioWare’s long-standing tradition of strong character dynamics and in-depth narratives.
Shifting perceptions and industry challenges
While Darrah’s proposal has generated excitement among fans, he acknowledges the challenges posed by the game’s previous design as a live-service title. Many critics argue that the game’s downfall stemmed from mismanaged expectations and development hurdles. By pivoting towards a single-player structure, Darrah envisions a path to redemption, similar to titles like No Man’s Sky and Cyberpunk 2077, which successfully turned their narratives around post-launch.
The case for game preservation
Darrah’s commentary also touches on a broader movement advocating for the preservation of video games. He argues that players should have a say in the longevity of the games they invest time and money into. The Stop Killing Games initiative emphasizes the importance of preserving games in playable forms, ensuring that even after official servers go dark, the community can still enjoy and explore these digital worlds.
Despite his enthusiasm, Darrah is realistic about the prospects of his plan being endorsed by EA, the game’s publisher. The $10 million budget contrasts sharply with the original vision of Anthem as a perpetual online experience. However, the growing discourse surrounding game preservation and the nostalgia for ambitious titles that fell short may provide the necessary momentum for a revival.
Conclusion: A potential rebirth
As discussions about Anthem‘s future continue, the idea of reimagining it as a single-player RPG opens up new possibilities for both players and developers. Whether EA chooses to invest in this vision remains uncertain. Nevertheless, Mark Darrah’s passionate proposal has reignited interest in a game that many believe still holds unrealized potential. With a shift in focus and a commitment to preserving the essence of what made BioWare special, perhaps Anthem can rise again, offering a compelling narrative experience that resonates with both old and new fans alike.