A J Drew

Drew Karpyshyn, born July 28, 1971, is a Canadian writer recognized for his contributions to video games and his original novels. He began his career in game design with Wizards of the Coast, contributing to the Forgotten Realms setting with novels like "Baldur's Gate II: Throne of Bhaal" and "Temple Hill." Karpyshyn then joined BioWare in 2000, where he played a significant role in developing major titles such as "Star Wars: Knights of the Old Republic," for which he received an award for writing excellence, and the "Mass Effect" series. He has moved between BioWare and independent projects multiple times throughout his career, most recently leaving in 2018 to focus on his own literary and freelance work. In 2020, he joined Archetype Entertainment, a studio formed by former BioWare staff, to work on a new science fiction role-playing game.

Before his career in writing, Karpyshyn worked as a loan officer. A car accident prompted a career change, leading him back to college to earn an English degree. He then entered the game industry, starting with Wizards of the Coast. During this period, he authored two novels set in the Forgotten Realms: "Baldur's Gate II: Throne of Bhaal" and "Temple Hill," both published in 2001. His tenure at BioWare began in 2000, where he was instrumental in crafting the narrative and dialogue for "Star Wars: Knights of the Old Republic," earning him recognition at the Game Developers Choice Awards. He also contributed to "Jade Empire" and the "Baldur's Gate" series before taking on lead writing duties for the "Mass Effect" franchise.

Karpyshyn's novel "Darth Bane: Path of Destruction" was published in 2006, marking his entry into the Star Wars Expanded Universe. His career has seen several shifts between BioWare and independent pursuits. He left BioWare in 2012 to dedicate time to his "Chaos Born" series of novels, returning to the company in 2015 to assist with "Star Wars: The Old Republic." He later worked on "Anthem." In March 2018, he announced another departure from BioWare to concentrate on his original novels, co-create a graphic novel, and engage in freelance game writing. More recently, in February 2020, Karpyshyn joined Archetype Entertainment, expressing renewed enthusiasm for game development.

Born in Edmonton, Alberta, Canada, on July 28, 1971, Karpyshyn is of Ukrainian heritage. He previously resided in Sherwood Park, Alberta, before relocating to Austin, Texas, in 2009. Karpyshyn has also appeared on the game show "Jeopardy!" He maintains an interest in professional football, specifically the NFL's San Diego Chargers. While his musical preferences lean towards alternative rock, he also appreciates artists like Sage Francis. Karpyshyn prefers to write during the night without any background music.