Despite Ray Muzyka statement that he gave notice 6 mos. ago and has been working on transition during that time, there is a glaring lack of any announcement who will be running the show in the future. That doesn't mesh with any reasonable picture of a 6 month transition. Also significant is the official statement by both doctors that they will not be working in the field of video games, with Zeschuck stating that he's "not going to be working in games for a while."
My reading; Muzyka and Zuschuk have been negotiating the terms and conditions of their retirement for the past six months. They each got a golden parachute which included a "no compete" requirement extending for several years. They may have been essentially pushed out, particularly given the timing of Muzyka's 'decision to leave', six months ago, following the less than stellar launch of ME3. This is supported by the naming of no successor. The two docs apparently had no say, and have no say, in naming of a successor. Nevertheless, the apparent "no compete" implications of the docs' announcements should also mean that each doc will rake in a heap of money in consideration of their leaving and agreeing not to work in the video game field for a time certain. One would also expect that both docs will publicly 'bless' the successor whenever that person is named.
The announcement of DA3 details and related ME3 announcements over the past few days generally can be seen as meaning that other management at BioWare wasn't in the loop on the retirement negotiations; and are now rushing to make announcements seeking to assure everyone of 'business as usual' upon the departure of the docs. Nevertheless the year plus timing before release of DA3 also indicates there is room for an about face on DA3.
Honestly, BioWare has had a dismal 2012. Hopefully a bright, talented, well connected, and energetic successor can turn things around. Nevertheless, it's clear that the successor will be determined and appointed by EA.
I wish everyone at BioWare all the best for the future. Sure would be nice if this works out positively for all, including us RPG gamers.
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