Internal Mass Effect 5 trailer reportedly leaked
An internal trailer for Mass Effect 5 has reportedly leaked, providing a look at pre-production assets that were intended solely for internal use within BioWare.
The footage initially surfaced via a Reddit post, and while its legitimacy was initially unconfirmed, IGN has since verified that the video is authentic. The trailer includes a disclaimer stating that the footage is in-engine and was created by a small team using pre-production assets.
The video features a former military operative transitioning into a role reminiscent of a space-faring spy. Although the footage is pre-rendered, it hints at gameplay mechanics involving traditional gunplay paired with telekinetic abilities. At the end of the clip, the title Mass Effect Universe is displayed, though it remains unclear whether this is a working title or the intended official name of the project.
A notable detail in the footage is the appearance of an older Liara T'Soni assisting the protagonist in a bar fight, which raises questions regarding the game's timeline. This leak follows the announcement of significant layoffs at EA, affecting approximately 400 employees across The Sims, Skate, and Battlefield, alongside the decision to shut down BioWare and cancel the development of the next Mass Effect installment.