Mass Effect Video Game Series
Mass Effect is a science fiction-set action RPG series with TPP shooter elements. The series was created by Canadian studio BioWare, known for such productions as Baldur's Gate, Star Wars: Knights of the Old Republic i Dragon Age.
The series debuted in 2007 with the game Mass Effect, released for the Xbox 360 console. A year later, a PC version was released, and in 2012, also for the PlayStation 3. A full-fledged sequel, Mass Effect 2, premiered in 2010, and Mass Effect 3 in 2012.These titles make up the so-called Commander Shepard trilogy and form a cohesive story. In 2017, the series changed direction somewhat with the release of Mass Effect: Andromeda, telling the fate of completely different characters many years later. In addition to the main installments, several spin-offs were also released, such as the mobile Mass Effect Galaxy, and omnibus editions, such as Mass Effect: Legendary Edition, offering remastered versions of the first three installments along with all the extras.
In all games in the series, we can play either a character we create ourselves, or one that is imposed in advance. In the case of Trilogy we have the choice of John or Jane Shepard, in Andromeda Scott or Sarah Ryder. Shepard's task is to stop the invasion of the powerful Reapers, seeking to destroy the entire Milky Way. Ryder, in turn, is a member of the Andromeda Initiative, whose goal is to colonize the Andromeda galaxy.
The gameplay combines elements of action RPG and shooting. Events are shown from a third-person perspective (from behind the character's back). The course of the plot is influenced by decisions made during conversations with NPCs (moral choices) and Shepard/Ryder's past and gender. In Trilogy, tasks are performed in linear locations, but we are also given a number of open hubs that allow us to sell and buy items and receive new assignments. Andromeda has a more open map structure, filled with smaller and larger side quests. In all the main installments, we move around the world by selecting points of interest on the galaxy map. During adventures, the protagonist is accompanied by characters controlled by computer artificial intelligence. In addition to missions, we can deepen relationships with them and even enter into relationships, which changes the course of some events in the story. There is also a character development system, where we improve both conventional combat and biotic or technological skills.
Cycle Mass Effect is distinguished by high-quality audiovisual design. The momentum of the presented story is emphasized by numerous interludes (cutscreens), which in many places make the game look like a cinema superproduction.
The series was very well received by gamers. Unfortunately, some fans were disappointed with the ending of the Trilogy, which the developers tried to fix in a free DLC add-on - Extended Cut.
High sales of games in the series Mass Effect translated into interest from other means of mass culture. Several books were published that expanded the plots of the main characters (e.g. Mass Effect: Revelation by Drew Karpyshyn, and Mass Effect: Deception by William C. Dietz). <br>
Mass Effect Series Evolution
2021
Mass Effect: Legendary Edition
2017
Mass Effect: Andromeda
2012
Mass Effect Trilogy
2012
Mass Effect 3
2010
Mass Effect 2
2007
Mass Effect
Mass Effect 5
RPG
TBA
The fifth part of the extremely popular action RPG series. Mass Effect 5 was developed by BioWare studio, responsible for the brand, known among others for Dragon Age and Baldur's Gate series and games such as KotOR or Jade Empire.
Mass Effect: Legendary Edition
RPG
May 14, 2021
Collection of remastered RPG trilogy Mass Effect. Mass Effect: Legendary Edition allows us to relive Commander Shepard's adventures and follow his preparations for the battle between the races inhabiting the galaxy and the evil Reapers.
Mass Effect: Andromeda
RPG
March 21, 2017
The fourth part of the hugely popular action RPG game series in a space-opera setting. BioWare Montreal, the development studio that helped create the two previous installments took the reins of Mass Effect: Andromeda's development. The game's story is not associated with the trilogy about Commander Shepard's fight against the Reapers, offering instead a completely separate plot featuring new characters and locations. Using the proven pattern, the creators of Mass Effect: Andromeda put the focus on a spectacular TPP action experience and moral choices that have a direct impact on the course of events. The technical side of the game is based on the third-generation Frostbite engine, providing high-quality audiovisuals.
Mass Effect Trilogy
RPG
November 6, 2012
Collection of three parts of the famous series of action RPG action games by BioWare studio, which tell the adventures of commander Shepard. The hero fights a mysterious race of Harvesters that threatens the entire galaxy. In order to complete such a difficult mission it is necessary to gather a trusted team and convince other inhabitants of known planetary systems to be right.
Mass Effect Infiltrator
Action
March 6, 2012
A spin-off of the legendary Mass Effect series, created by IronMonkey studio with mobile users in mind. In terms of the plot, the title is a kind of supplement to the third part of the series, and its action takes place parallel to the events described there. We play as Randall Ezmo, a former Cerberus agent who, having discovered the horrifying experiments conducted in the company's laboratories, decides to take revenge on his former employer. To do so, however, he must first get out of the heavily guarded facility.
Mass Effect 3
RPG
March 6, 2012
A third installment in the science fiction series created by BioWare, which is a combination of action RPG with a third-person shooter. The title is the culmination of the epic Mass Effect trilogy, completing the story of Commander Shepard and his war against the Reapers. The action begins as the protagonist is about to be summoned to a hearing concerning the aftermath of his last assignment. Shepard's testimony is interrupted by the very same invasion he desperately fought to prevent. Being the only person possessing both the reputation and the experience of successfully fighting the Reapers, the protagonist starts a race against the clock to unite the forces of the whole galaxy against them. Similarly to Mass Effect 2, we can continue playing with a character that completed the previous entry in the series, retaining all of his or her experience. The gameplay mechanics have avoided major changes, although they did become more dynamic and arcade. The introduction of a multiplayer mode and linking it directly to the story campaign is the game's biggest novelty.
- Mass Effect 3: From Ashes March 6, 2012
- Mass Effect 3: Leviathan August 28, 2012
- Mass Effect 3: Omega November 27, 2012
- Mass Effect 3: Citadel March 5, 2013
Mass Effect 2
RPG
January 26, 2010
A sequel to the bestselling action RPG developed by BioWare, continuing the story of Commander Shepard, who nearly lost his life attacked by a mysterious enemy after having beaten the Reapers during the final moments of Mass Effect. Restored to life by an enigmatic organization called Cerberus and considered rogue by his former allies, the protagonist assembles a team of daredevils capable of facing a new threat: the Collectors. In the game, we meet both the characters we met in the prequel, as well as a cast of entirely new heroes with unique physical and biotic abilities. As far as the gameplay mechanics are concerned, greater emphasis was placed on action elements, including a new, dynamic combat system. Character development and the equipment screen were, in turn, slightly simplified. What’s interesting, we can transfer our character from Mass Effect 1 to play the game. In such case, all moral choices will carry over and have some sort of consequences in Mass Effect 2.
- Mass Effect 2: Firewalker March 23, 2010
- Mass Effect 2: Kasumi - Stolen Memory April 6, 2010
- Mass Effect 2: Overlord June 15, 2010
- Mass Effect 2: Lair of the Shadow Broker September 7, 2010
- Mass Effect 2: The Arrival March 29, 2011
Mass Effect Galaxy
Action
June 22, 2009
A two-dimensional action game with RPG elements, designed for mobile devices owners, embedded in the universe of the best-selling game Mass Effect by BioWare studio. In the production we play the role of Jacob Taylor's former alliance agent, who tries to thwart the plans of Batarian terrorists. The gameplay is divided into a top-down skillfulness part and numerous feature scenes, during which we talk to key independent characters.
Mass Effect
RPG
November 20, 2007
A science-fiction action RPG developed by BioWare, the creators of such cult games as Baldur’s Gate and Neverwinter Nights. The story takes place at the end of the 22nd century. The players assume the role of Commander Shepard, the first human Spectre agent, tasked with the mission of stopping a rogue Spectre - Saren Arterius - after the protagonist discovered that his opponent had allied himself with a terrifying foe: an ancient race of intelligent machines called the Reapers, whose only objective is to wipe out all sentient organic life in the galaxy The game skillfully combines classic RPG elements with the premises and gameplay of a modern action game. Apart from exploration, numerous dialogues, various quests and moral choices, the game features dynamic, tactical combat, where we lead a 3-member squad. The game awards us with experience points to develop our characters and enhance our arsenal of futuristic weapons and gadgets.
- Mass Effect: Bring Down the Sky May 9, 2008
- Mass Effect: Pinnacle Station August 25, 2009
Mass Effect Series News
„EA gives you enough rope to hang yourself.” BioWare co-founder recalls working at the studio
Fitting in with Electronic Arts is nothing easy, but Greg Zeschuk doesn't think the company restricted BioWare's freedom during his time at the studio.
video games
Jacob Blazewicz
February 27, 2025
More developers are leaving BioWare. Writers, producers, and designers are looking for work
The announced restructuration of the BioWare studio by Electronic Arts concealed layoffs of employees.
video games
Martin Bukowski
January 30, 2025
While working on Mass Effect 5, BioWare „doesn't require support from the full studio.” Electronic Arts is moving some Dragon Age: The Veilguard devs to other projects
BioWare announced that following the release of Dragon Age: The Veilguard, the studio is fully focused on developing Mass Effect 5. Furthermore, the company has seconded some developers to work on other projects being developed under the wings of Electronic Arts.
video games
Kamil Kleszyk
January 30, 2025
What's Next For BioWare: Former Executive Producer Shares His Thoughts
Dragon Age: The Veilguard has shipped. Mass Effect should be next. Former Executive Producer Mark Darrah breaks down BioWare's history to explain what's next.
video games
Matt Buckley
January 22, 2025
Mass Effect 5 director addresses Corinne Busche's departure from Dragon Age team
Michael Gamble didn't reassure all Mass Effect fans after the departure of the director of Dragon Age: The Veilguard.
video games
Jacob Blazewicz
January 21, 2025
BioWare Warns That Dragon Age The Veilguard Release Will Affect N7 Day Celebrations. Mass Effect Fans Have to Be Patient
Fans of the Mass Effect series looking forward to N7 Day shouldn't expect miracles. Studio BioWare has announced that this year's edition of the celebration will be more modest due to the recent release of Dragon Age: The Veilguard.
video games
Adrian Werner
November 5, 2024
„Mass Effect Will Maintain the Mature Tone of the Original Trilogy.” ME5 Director Says Sci-Fi RPG Is Different From Dragon Age, Requires „Different Kind of Love” and Will Bet on Photorealism
The executive producer of Mass Effect 5 commented on comparisons to the Dragon Age series. By the way, he mentioned the tone of the upcoming installment, which should please fans of the trilogy.
video games
Martin Bukowski
October 29, 2024
Mass Effect Actress Delivered News That May Sadden Fans of the Commander. However, Female Shepard Doesn’t Lose Hope
Nevertheless, you'd better not set your sights on bringing Commander Shepard back into favor. By doing so, you will save yourself a potential disappointment.
video games
Alexandra Sokol
April 30, 2024
Mass Effect 5 in Good Hands, Being Developed by Original Trilogy Veterans
BioWare studio isn't going to take any chances with Mass Effect 5. The game's executive producer revealed that the most important positions in the team are filled by veterans of the original trilogy.
video games
Adrian Werner
March 26, 2024
Layoffs at EA. Mass Effect and Dragon Age Fans Have Nothing to Worry About
It looks like the scourge of layoffs affecting Electronic Arts won't torpedo work on the new installments of the Mass Effect and Dragon Age series.
video games
Kamil Kleszyk
March 1, 2024