Anthem Is Officially Shutting Down on January 12, 2024 – What Players Need to Know
Anthem, the online multiplayer action RPG developed by BioWare and published by Electronic Arts, is officially shutting down its servers on January 12, 2024. This announcement brings an end to the game’s active online services and marks a significant moment in the lifecycle of this once highly anticipated title. If you’re an Anthem player or a fan curious about what this shutdown means, this article covers everything you need to know – from the shutdown timeline, impacts on gameplay, to useful advice on transitioning after the closure.
Meta Information
| Topic | Details |
|---|---|
| Game Title | Anthem |
| Developer | BioWare |
| Publisher | Electronic Arts (EA) |
| Shutdown Date | January 12, 2024 |
| Genre | Multiplayer Action RPG |
Why Is Anthem Shutting Down?
The decision to shut down Anthem’s servers results from multiple factors including dwindling player numbers, ongoing challenges in sustaining engaging content updates, and the strategic pivot of BioWare and EA towards other projects. After nearly four years of mixed reception and fluctuating support, Anthem’s active player base has gradually declined, making it harder to justify ongoing server and development costs.
While the shutdown is disappointing for dedicated players, it also allows EA and BioWare to refocus their resources on upcoming titles like the highly anticipated Dragon Age: Dreadwolf and continued support for the Mass Effect franchise.
What Happens When Anthem Shuts Down?
Once January 12, 2024, arrives, players will no longer have access to Anthem’s online multiplayer gameplay or social features. Below is a concise overview of what the shutdown means for the Anthem community:
- Online Servers Closed: Multiplayer matchmaking, online missions, and live events will cease to exist.
- Game Access: The game client and campaigns will still be accessible, but without online features, most of the game’s core will be unusable.
- Account Services: Login and authentication services tied to EA’s backend will be disabled.
- In-Game Purchases: All microtransactions, store features, and season passes will be permanently closed.
Impact on Players: What You Need to Do
If you’re an Anthem player, it’s crucial to prepare ahead of the shutdown date. Here are practical tips to make your transition easier:
1. Backup Important Data
Ensure you save any screenshots, videos, or other personal content related to Anthem before servers go offline. Unfortunately, your progress won’t be transferable, and once the servers close, online character data may no longer be retrievable.
2. Connect with the Community
The Anthem fanbase remains passionate despite the shutdown. Join forums, social media groups, or Discord communities to share experiences and stay updated on any unofficial projects or fan-made servers.
3. Explore Similar Games
Looking for new gaming adventures similar to Anthem’s gameplay style? Consider titles like:
- Destiny 2: Another popular online shooter with cooperative gameplay and rich lore.
- Outriders: A looter shooter with RPG elements and dynamic combat.
- Warframe: Free-to-play cooperative third-person shooter with a vast universe and constant updates.
A Look Back: Anthem’s Journey
Initially released in February 2019, Anthem garnered attention with its beautiful graphics and promising concept of combining RPG elements with flight-based combat in a shared world. However, several development and content issues hampered its long-term success.
Key Milestones in Anthem’s Development
| Year | Event |
|---|---|
| 2017 | Initial announcement and reveal at E3 |
| 2019 | Official launch in February |
| 2019-2020 | Multiple patches and updates; start of “Anthem Next” reboot plans |
| 2021 | Cancellation of Anthem Next and shift to new projects |
| 2024 | Official shutdown of Anthem servers on January 12 |
What BioWare Is Saying
BioWare has expressed gratitude to the Anthem community for their dedication and support throughout the years. They have offered transparency about the closure and reiterated their commitment to future projects. According to official statements:
“While Anthem’s journey ends here, the lessons we’ve learned will fuel BioWare’s future storytelling and game design excellence.”
Conclusion: The End of an Era and Looking Forward
The official shutdown of Anthem’s servers on January 12, 2024, signals the end of an era for both players and developers. Though many were hopeful for a revival, the closure reflects the realities of maintaining an evolving online game. While it’s natural to feel nostalgia and disappointment, it is also an opportunity to look ahead toward new gaming experiences and innovations from BioWare and other studios.
Whether you’re a longtime fan or a curious onlooker, staying informed about Anthem’s shutdown enables you to adapt smoothly. Remember to back up your content, engage with the vibrant community, and explore other captivating multiplayer games to continue your gaming passion.
Stay tuned and bookmark this page for more updates on Anthem and the future releases from BioWare and EA.