Mac Walters’ Career at BioWare and New Beginnings at NetEase
Mac Walters had a distinguished 19-year tenure at BioWare, where he contributed significantly to the Mass Effect series. He started as a writer and eventually became the lead writer for the Mass Effect trilogy. Walters then took on the role of creative director for Mass Effect: Andromeda and served as the production director for the anticipated title Dragon Age: Dreadwolf. After his long service at BioWare, Walters departed to embark on a new venture with NetEase, founding the studio Worlds Untold.
Worlds Untold Studio’s Mission
The newly established Worlds Untold studio is dedicated to creating triple-A action adventure games with a strong emphasis on narrative and worldbuilding. The studio’s mission is to craft immersive and meaningful stories that are best experienced through interactive gameplay.
| Past Focus Areas | Future Focus Areas |
|---|---|
| Traditional game narratives | Deep, interactive storytelling |
| Linear world design | Expansive worldbuilding |
NetEase’s Expansion in Western Gaming
NetEase has been strategically expanding its influence in the Western gaming market. This includes the establishment of Jackalope Games, a US-based studio, and the acquisition of the studio behind Detroit: Become Human, Quantic Dream.
- Anchor Point: Led by Control lead designer Paul Ehreth.
- Fantastic Pixel Castle: Headed by former Riot Games vice president Greg Street.
NetEase’s Vision for Multimedia Franchises and Worlds Untold’s First Project
NetEase has articulated a vision that extends beyond the realm of gaming, aiming to develop multimedia franchises that span various platforms and mediums. This ambitious plan is set to create intellectual properties with the depth and potential to transcend a single game or medium.
Details about Worlds Untold’s inaugural project remain scarce, but it is described as a near-future action adventure game set in a world rich with mystery and ripe for exploration. The anticipation for this new venture is high, although specifics are yet to be unveiled.
