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
TBA
RPG, Space, Romances, Action RPG, Science Fiction, TPP.
The fifth installment of the extremely popular action RPG series. Mass Effect 5 was developed by BioWare, known for its other notable series and games, including Dragon Age and Baldur's Gate, as well as KotOR and Jade Empire.
Mass Effect: Legendary Edition
May 14, 2021
RPG, EA Play, Space, Package, Remaster/remake, Romances, Action RPG, Science Fiction, Singleplayer, TPP, TPS, Xbox Game Pass Ultimate, PC Game Pass.
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.
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Steam
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Mass Effect: Andromeda
March 21, 2017
RPG, EA Play, Internet, Co-op, Multiplayer, Role-playing Shooter, Romances, Action RPG, Science Fiction, Singleplayer, TPP, TPS, Xbox Game Pass Ultimate, PC Game Pass.
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.
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Mass Effect Trilogy
November 6, 2012
RPG, Multiplayer, Package, Role-playing Shooter, Romances, Action RPG, Science Fiction, Singleplayer, TPP, TPS.
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.
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Mass Effect 3
March 6, 2012
RPG, EA Play, Internet, Co-op, Multiplayer, Role-playing Shooter, Romances, Action RPG, Science Fiction, Singleplayer, TPP, TPS, Xbox Game Pass Ultimate, PC Game Pass.
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.
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Expansion Packs:
- 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 Infiltrator
September 11, 2015, End of Life
Action, Science Fiction, Singleplayer, TPP, TPS.
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.
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Mass Effect 2
September 11, 2015, End of Life
RPG, EA Play, Role-playing Shooter, Romances, Action RPG, Science Fiction, Singleplayer, TPP, TPS, Xbox Game Pass Ultimate, PC Game Pass.
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.
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Expansion Packs:
- 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
September 11, 2015, End of Life
Action, 2D, RPG Elements, Science Fiction, Shoot 'em Up, Singleplayer, Top-down.
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.
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Mass Effect
September 11, 2015, End of Life
RPG, EA Play, Role-playing Shooter, Romances, Action RPG, Science Fiction, Singleplayer, TPP, Xbox Game Pass Premium, Xbox Game Pass Ultimate, PC Game Pass.
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.
Steam
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Expansion Packs:
- Mass Effect: Bring Down the Sky May 9, 2008
- Mass Effect: Pinnacle Station August 25, 2009
Mass Effect Series News
BioWare celebrates N7 Day by confirming rumors. Next Mass Effect game is in the works
Another N7 Day has arrived, and BioWare has confirmed that the studio is working on the next Mass Effect game, finally putting rumors and conspiracies to rest.
video games
November 7, 2025
Who will buy Mass Effect? Former BioWare director has his picks
The former BioWare director shared his thoughts on the Electronic Arts buyout. He, too, suggested that the studio and the IPs it owns could be sold to other publishers.
video games
October 3, 2025
„It's over, Commander.” Mass Effect fans are already saying goodbye to the series after EA's takeover, and a former BioWare screenwriter shares his concerns
The game industry is currently alive with news of the buyout of Electronic Arts. Players and developers are concerned about the negative effects of the deal.
video games
September 30, 2025
Mass Effect 5 may be BioWare's last resort after Dragon Age: The Veilguard failure. Devs reveal what led to game's downfall
Dragon Age: The Veilguard didn't turn out to be a big hit for the BioWare studio. Based on information from the developers, journalist Jason Schreier described the reasons for the title's failure.
video games
June 12, 2025
EA always favored Mass Effect over Dragon Age, says co-creator of RPG series. „They never knew what to do with DA”
According to Dragon Age series writer David Gaider, the franchise has always faced an uphill battle at Electronic Arts, which never hid its preference for the Mass Effect series.
video games
April 14, 2025
„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
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
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
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
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
January 21, 2025