Mass Effect trilogy – worth buying in 2023?

Are the Mass Effect trilogy games worth getting on Xbox? Here's everything you need to know about the captivating RPG series.

Mass Effect trilogy – worth buying in 2023?
Published by Mason @ PC Game Spotlight a year ago


Mass Effect trilogy gameplay

The Mass Effect trilogy is a legendary journey through the Milky Way as Commander Shepard, an elite human soldier tasked with saving the universe from the Reapers, a seemingly unstoppable force hell-bent on wiping out all organic life. The games are widely regarded as some of the best Xbox games due to their captivating storytelling, rich characters, and dialogue choices. Whether you're a fan of sci-fi or not, many Xbox users highly recommend the Mass Effect trilogy for its sci-fi elements and over-the-shoulder shooter gameplay.

The first game may have aged in comparison to later entries in the series, but it is still worth playing for its story. Despite some frustrations, players can still get lost in the rich universe and dynamic characters. The side missions involving companions are particularly praised for their storytelling, offering character development and world-building opportunities. While the main campaign can be completed without exploring these side missions, it's worth noting that the choices made throughout the trilogy have an impact, although some argue that not all choices matter significantly.

Although the combat mechanics may feel clunky compared to newer shooter games, the Mass Effect trilogy provides a unique and immersive experience that sets it apart from other games on the console. It combines RPG elements, cover shooting, and special abilities to create a gameplay experience that fans of The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild will appreciate.

Mass Effect games story

The Mass Effect games excel in world-building, offering a deep and expansive universe filled with various planets and intriguing races to meet. What sets the franchise apart is the dialogue wheel, which prompts players with a multitude of choices that affect how characters perceive them and shape the overall story. The games are known for their intricate love stories, with each character having a unique perception of Commander Shepard. Beyond that, the games are very much story-driven and have a high level of replayability.

Mass Effect games sequel

The Mass Effect franchise took a turn with Andromeda, a spin-off from the main trilogy. While the gameplay has been vastly improved, many fans of the original games argue that the overall impact is lessened. Set hundreds of years after the events of the original trilogy, Andromeda follows the journey of Ryder, a Pathfinder tasked with establishing a new human colony on the planet of Helius. The gameplay features a more open world and greater emphasis on gunplay.

However, some fans of the original trilogy feel that the world-building in Andromeda is significantly less impressive and that the dialogue wheel has been replaced with a simpler conversation tree.

Is it worth playing all three games?

The decision to get the Mass Effect games ultimately depends on your preference for sci-fi, engaging storytelling, and immersive gameplay. If you enjoy strong narratives, then the Mass Effect games will provide a delicious treat. The trilogy offers a different, immersive experience that can be compared to the best games on the console, especially for fans of Nintendo games. Mass Effect 3, in particular, is a must-play for those looking for a lengthy and immersive space game.

However, keep in mind that some gamers find the combat mechanics to be clumsy compared to newer shooter games, and the choices in the game may not have as much impact as some believe. Some recommend starting with Mass Effect 2 and using the recap to catch up on the story, although skipping the first game may result in default choices that may not align with desired outcomes in later games.

Your decision to get the Mass Effect games ultimately depends on how much time you're willing to commit to the series.

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