BioWare vows to answer Mass Effect 3 ending questions

BioWare appears to have capitulated - the team are working on "content initiatives" to answer the questions left by the controversial Mass Effect 3 ending.

In an open letter, BioWare co-founder Ray Muzyka addressed the heated topic.

"I personally believe Mass Effect 3 is the best work we've yet created. So, it's incredibly painful to receive feedback from our core fans that the game's endings were not up to their expectations," he wrote.

"Our first instinct is to defend our work and point to the high ratings offered by critics - but out of respect to our fans, we need to accept the criticism and feedback with humility."

Which has led to: "Exec Producer Casey Hudson and the team are hard at work on a number of game content initiatives that will help answer the questions, providing more clarity for those seeking further closure to their journey," Muzyka announced.

"You'll hear more on this in April.

"We're working hard to maintain the right balance between the artistic integrity of the original story while addressing the fan feedback we've received.

"This is in addition to our existing plan to continue providing new Mass Effect content and new full games, so rest assured that your journey in the Mass Effect universe can, and will, continue."

Casey Hudson revealed recently that there had been plans to offer a character dialogue at the end of Mass Effect 3 to discuss the origins of the universe, and answer questions such as where the reapers came from and beyond.

But then Hudson and writer Mac Walters decided against it - to keep the content "high level" and on a need to know basis. And players, it was deemed, did not need to know.

"We listen and will respond to constructive criticism, but much as we will not tolerate individual attacks on our team members, we will not support or respond to destructive commentary."

Ray Muzyka, co-founder, BioWare

The Mass Effect 3 ending debate has sparked a petition thousands of signatures long. It's also prompted vitriolic feedback, and Ray Muzyka was clear that such communication would not be merited with a response.

"Some of the criticism that has been delivered in the heat of passion by our most ardent fans, even if founded on valid principles, such as seeking more clarity to questions or looking for more closure, for example - has unfortunately become destructive rather than constructive," he remarked.

"We listen and will respond to constructive criticism, but much as we will not tolerate individual attacks on our team members, we will not support or respond to destructive commentary.

"If you are a Mass Effect fan and have input for the team - we respect your opinion and want to hear it. We're committed to address your constructive feedback as best we can.

"In return, I'd ask that you help us do that by supporting what I truly believe is the best game BioWare has yet crafted. I urge you to do your own research: play the game, finish it and tell us what you think. Tell your friends if you feel it's a good game as a whole. Trust that we are doing our damndest, as always, to address your feedback.

"As artists, we care about our fans deeply and we appreciate your support."