A group of former employees from game developer BioWare have initiated a lawsuit against the company, demanding better severance pay following their recent layoffs. In August, BioWare laid off 50 employees to ensure the success of their upcoming games, including Dragon Age: Dreadwolf and the next Mass Effect installment. Out of the individuals affected by the layoffs, seven are now taking legal action against BioWare, claiming that the severance package provided is significantly lower than the standards set by Alberta Courts in termination cases. These employees, unable to showcase their recent work due to non-disclosure agreements (NDAs), are concerned about finding new employment during the holiday season. While they express support for their former colleagues and the games they worked on, the employees question why BioWare is providing inadequate compensation at this challenging time.
Former BioWare technical director Jon Renish released a statement on behalf of the group, stating that the severance package offered by the company falls short of the norm. They argue that it is unjust to offer less than what Alberta Courts typically award in termination cases without cause. The group is refusing the severance pay offered by BioWare and is seeking punitive damages for the situation they find themselves in. R. Alex Kennedy, the attorney representing the employees, points out that these individuals are talented artists and creators who have contributed significantly to the company’s success. The mass termination without cause calls for a response, as employers have the right to lay off employees but also bear the responsibility for those actions.
BioWare has not yet provided a comment regarding the lawsuit.
