Anthem
Few controversies are as frustrating or depressing as those surrounding Anthem, if only because they show how mismanagement can ruin a game.
The latest title from BioWare, Anthem was anticipated as one of the biggest releases of 2019. A multiplayer looter shooter, it held great potential thanks to its traversal mechanics, art style and immense backing by publisher EA.
And yet, upon release, it was a complete mess. The game’s design was padded and lacking in content, while bugs made continuous play difficult for many and impossible for some.
Worse yet, the game had a staggered release, with some experiencing these issues before others did and readily sharing the grim news online before it saw its wider launch.
Those that picked up or pre-ordered the game were understandably upset, and wanted to know what went wrong during the game’s development.
Sadly, they got their answer in an investigation by Kotaku. From mismanagement to technical issues caused by the game’s engine, everything that could go wrong did, leaving BioWare with little option other than to put out a broken game.
This only increased tensions between customers and the game’s creators, and while EA and BioWare continue to make fixes to the game, it remains one of the biggest disappointments and controversies in recent memory.
