EA has announced the shutdown of servers for BioWare’s “Anthem” on January 12, 2026. As of now, players can no longer purchase in-game currency, and the game will be removed from EA Play on August 15, 2025. After that date, only those who own the game will have access until the shutdown.
“Anthem” was designed as a multiplayer experience, requiring a constant internet connection. This means once the servers are down, the game will be unplayable, even for solo players.
The decision to close the servers comes after a troubled launch in early 2019. The game received negative reviews and struggled to retain players. EA stated that this closure was made with “careful consideration” and expressed gratitude to fans for their support throughout the game’s journey.
Interestingly, this shutdown comes at a time when many players are blending solo and multiplayer experiences. According to a recent survey, 62% of gamers enjoy exploring single-player campaigns, even in games primarily designed for multiplayer. These trends show a shift in player preferences, highlighting a desire for a richer, single-player narrative, especially when faced with online services shutting down.
Additionally, “Anthem” has a history tied to the rise of live-service games, a model that has been both praised and criticized. While some players appreciate ongoing updates and content, others feel frustrated when those services diminish or disappear altogether.
In retrospect, it’s a stark reminder of how quickly gaming landscapes can change. For many fans, the closing of “Anthem” marks the end of an era, embodying the challenges of maintaining a live-service game in a fast-paced industry.
For those looking to explore recent trends in live-service games, you can read more about their evolution here.