The multiplayer shooter Anthem, developed by BioWare and published by Electronic Arts (EA), will officially shut down on January 12, 2026. This closure marks the end of the game’s nearly seven-year run, following years of struggles and development challenges. Fans still have time to play, but should prepare for the sunset.
What’s Happening & Why This Matters
EA announced on July 3, 2025, that Anthem will sunset early next year. The game has already been removed from digital storefronts and will exit the EA Play library on August 15, 2025. Players who own the game cannot buy in-game currency anymore, but those with existing balances can spend them until the shutdown date.
Anthem launched in February 2019 with mixed reviews and failed to meet commercial expectations. Critics, including PCMag, noted its buggy gameplay and lack of differentiation in the crowded shoot-and-loot genre. The game struggled to find its audience despite an ambitious design.
BioWare announced plans for a major overhaul just a year after the game’s launch. However, in February 2021, development on this relaunch was halted, and the game has stayed essentially unchanged since then.
The shutdown comes without direct layoffs at EA tied to Anthem’s closure. However, BioWare underwent restructuring earlier in 2025, with some staff members relocated and others leaving.
EA thanked players for their support and dedication throughout the game’s lifecycle. The conclusion of Anthem is a poignant reminder of the volatile nature of live-service games in the competitive multiplayer market.
TF Summary: What’s Next
With Anthem shutting down, EA is focusing its resources on newer projects and franchises. Players can enjoy the game for the next six months, but should prepare for its retirement.
This case presents the challenges of sustaining multiplayer games for the long-term and the importance of strong initial launches and updates. The multiplayer shoot-and-loot genre continues to deliver fresh entries.
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