James Ohlen, former director of Star Wars: The Old Republic, discusses his 2018 exit from BioWare after EA rejected a proposed reboot titled Star Wars: The New Republic. Ohlen reflects on the challenges of leading the MMO, the $300 million development cost that likely influenced EA's decision, and his subsequent departure from Archetype Entertainment due to burnout. The veteran developer is now pursuing RPG adventure books and awaits the 2027 release of Exodus, a project led by former BioWare colleagues.
James Ohlen, a 22-year BioWare veteran, reveals the grueling development of his new sci-fi RPG Exodus "nearly killed" him. The game, set for a 2027 PC release, features innovative time dilation effects and involves Matthew McConaughey. Ohlen's experience leading Archetype Entertainment under Wizards of the Coast's funding took a significant personal toll.
