BioShock creator saddened by Mass Effect 3 ending controversy

The Mass Effect 3 ending controversy has lit up the gaming industry, the press and fans in general, as people discuss the various aspects of a game that many believe was ended on a sour note. That controversy has made it to discussion within game designer circles, as Irrational Games' Ken Levine has added his thoughts during a panel discussion at the Smithsonian's "Art of Video Games" exhibit.

"I think if those people got what they wanted and (BioWare) wrote their ending they would be very disappointed in the emotional feeling they got because...they didn't really create it," he said. "I think this whole thing is making me a little bit sad because I don't think anyone would get what they wanted if that happened."

Levine likened the situation as an "important moment" in the industry, one that soundly defines the consumer/developer relationship. Other developers at the panel also added their support to BioWare, including BioWare-Mythic senior creative director Paul Barnett.

"If computer games are art then I fully endorse the author of the artwork to have a statement about what they believe should happen," Barnett said. "Just as J.K. Rowling can end her books and say that is the end of Harry Potter. I don't think she should be forced to make another one."

Regardless of how these developers and creatives feel, the community has been rather harsh on BioWare in Vancouver. The studio has today announced that they will be looking to tweak the ending of Mass Effect 3. Large forum and Twitter outcries from fans, including a charity protest to Penny Arcade's Child's Play fund for over $75,000, have been instrumental in BioWare folding on the matter.

[Thanks Vox Games]