In a recent Twitter series celebrating beloved game anecdotes, the spotlight is on the origin of the notorious “BioWare turn.” While the term may not be instantly recognizable to all, players of the Mass Effect and Dragon Age franchises will likely remember it vividly.
This signature animation features characters dramatically turning their heads, following with a shoulder movement, and slowly exiting the scene. The “BioWare turn” has become iconic, leading to numerous supercut videos that compile these moments from the two RPG trilogies.
Violet McVinnie, a cinematic designer who worked on several key titles including Mass Effect 2, Mass Effect 3, Dragon Age 2, and Dragon Age Inquisition, takes credit for some of these memorable animations. McVinnie describes the “BioWare turn” as part of a broader set of animations known as “Posebreakers.”
These were designed to make scenes feel more dynamic by allowing characters to move around instead of remaining static. This design choice often incorporated the well-known “Exit Left/Right” animation, further enhancing the storytelling through character movement.
In her Twitter post, McVinnie highlights that many animations have been shared across various BioWare franchises. For instance, the fight cutscene between Thane and Kai Leng in Mass Effect 3 includes combat animations from Jade Empire. This cross-pollination of animations suggests a rich history of design choices that span multiple titles, creating a cohesive feel across the BioWare universe.
The lineage of these animations raises hopes that they might continue to appear in future games, such as the upcoming Dragon Age: The Veilguard. While some players may grumble about the reuse of content from earlier games, dedicated BioWare fans often appreciate these nods to the past as delightful Easter eggs. This blending of old and new not only connects fans with the franchise’s history but also fosters a sense of nostalgia.
Ultimately, the “BioWare turn” exemplifies how character animations can enhance narrative immersion in video games. As developers like McVinnie continue to innovate and build upon established mechanics, players can expect to see familiar elements reimagined in new contexts. The enduring appeal of such animations underscores the importance of animation in game design and its role in shaping player experiences across beloved titles.
