Best. Game. Ever.

Mass Effect 2:

Bioware. Action/RPG. RD: 2010. ESRB Rating: Mature.
Platforms: PC, Xbox 360.

Official website.

Mass Effect 2; ask me about about it, and I’ll tell you: My favorite game ever. By far. This sequel to my previous favorite game ever packed some serious enhancements, including(and not exclusively) an extremely streamlined combat system, very diverse classes, research, insane graphics, an even more compelling storyline than the first(which is seriously saying something.), and better squad management.

The first thing I noticed when I started up ME2 was the movie-like quality. As I watch the intro cutscene, I’m in awe until I realize that this person talking to me wants me to respond. Wait, that’s not a cutscene, it’s actually part of then game? Whoa. Then, later in the game I find out the “secret” of the Collectors, which I will NOT tell you, but know that it is a crazy twist, if you’ve played Mass Effect 1.

More Mass Effect 2 goodness is from the boss battles. They aren’t necessarily “bosses,” but they might as well be. At the end of each mission you’ll face a big baddy, and they won’t be easy. But boy, are they fun. Use your new and improved combat skills to take ‘em down. The combat system in the second Mass Effect includes jumping OVER cover instead of running around, instant squad reaction to commands, and a completely different skill system. There are still 10 points that can be put into skills; however they are 1 point for rank 1, 2 for rank 2, 3 for 3, and 4 for 4. After you reach rank four, your skill “evolves” into one of two major improvements that really can only be chosen based on personal preference.

Items in the sequel are possibly the greatest improvement, although possibly it’s greatest downfall as well. Armor is customized, meaning that you can go to shops around the galaxy and buy different parts. However, there are not that many parts to choose from. I was very disappointed, but I am assuming that Bioware will fix this major problem in a future DLC.

Speaking of DLC, the Cerberus network is a card included in all new copies of Mass Effect 2. What is it? A free-DLC card. When Mass Effect gets new DLC, you do too(assuming that the DLC is included in the Cerberus network). Day-1 DLC was a new party member and two new missions; pretty cool, huh?

On the difficulty side of things, ME2 requires a much more tactical approach than the first, simply because your enemies are smarter(they weave, it’s extremely annoying for a sniper) and much more deadly. Heavy weapons are now included in the game, and let me tell you, they HURT. You can get your own heavy weapons from research at a terminal on your ship. Research is a major part of the game. You scan planets and mine their elements, and use those elements for upgrades to your armor, weapons, and ship!

Okay, I’m rambling. Overall, this IS my favorite game ever, and I can NOT wait for Mass Effect 3. Time to start my fifth playthrough… BUT not until I finish up this review.

Pros:

• Flawless combat system. No more overheating, replaced with “ammo.” Cover sysem is enormously improved.
• Story is incredible. Great twist.
• Dialogue is, like the first, revolutionary.
• Armor customization is a great addition.
• Inventory is massively improved.
• Classes are extremely diverse.
• Characters are very in-depth. Party members are lovable.
• Side quests are much more significant than the first.
• Enemies are smart. And your squad is, too.
• Best replay value out of any RPG I have ever played, I mean it.
• “Boss battles” add more challenge.
• Much more linear than the first.
• Graphics are sick gnasty! The environments are beautiful.
• Soundtrack is amazing. Epic.
• NO MORE MAKO!
• Save-game import is revolutionary, your choices in the first DO affect the second. Yes, even the little tiny choices.
• Character development is streamlined, no more useless skills. Renegade/Paragon affects your appearance, but not too unrealistically. (No halos or horns, thank God.)

Cons:

• Scanning. Sucks.
• Armor could potentially have more upgrades, although they will most likely include this in DLC.
• Less side quests than the first.
• Once again, much more linear than the first.
• Uh… that’s it.

There you have it, people.

Grade: A (99)

BUY. THIS. GAME.