The writer who left BioWare: Eurogamer interviews Drew Karpyshyn
Drew Karpyshyn not only resembles Commander Shepard facially – he created him. Drew Karpyshyn was one of BioWare’s greatest ever writers. He was lead writer of cherished Star Wars role-playing game Knights of the Old Republic, and he was lead writer of Mass Effect 1, 2, and all the books in-between (not Deception). Along the way, Karpyshyn also influenced Baldur’s Gate 2: Throne of Bhaal, Neverwinter Nights, Jade Empire and massive storied MMO Star Wars: The Old Republic – a job that meant he couldn’t be a part of Mass Effect 3.But in February, Drew Karpyshyn walked away from BioWare, and video games, after 12 decorated years. He left to pursue literary goals – chiefly, his original Children of Fire trilogy. But he left BioWare on shaky ground. Mass Effect 3 was great, but will be remembered for the furore surrounding the ending. Star Wars: The Old Republic was an incredible achievement, but it will be remembered as the expensive gamble that went free-to-play within a year. BioWare’s reputation seems to be challenged at every corner.With those issues bubbling in the cauldron, as well as accusations of triple-A budgets stifling creativity and a new literary career to consider, I thought it high time I tracked down Drew Karpyshyn for a chat.Read more…
