Mass Effect is a popular science-fiction RPG game that is centred around Commander Shepard who must save the galaxy from the Reaper race of machines. The trilogy, consisting of Mass Effect, 2 and 3, introduced innovative gameplay and deep worldbuilding that revolutionized the RPG genre. The focus on player choice and consequences, detailed universe and lore, dialogue system, and memorable characters (like Garrus and Liara) are what made it a critical and commercial success. BioWare’s place in the gaming industry was cemented by Mass Effect, and it continues to have an enduring legacy in gaming even today.
A Deep Dive Into the World of Mass Effect: A Review of the Trilogy and Its Impact on RPGs
Introduction
Mass Effect is an epic science-fiction RPG game that was first released by BioWare in 2007. The game quickly gained popularity among gamers and has become one of the most respected and beloved franchises in the gaming community. The trilogy is set in the year 2183 and is centered around a soldier named Commander Shepard who is tasked with saving the galaxy from an ancient race of machines called the Reapers.
The Trilogy: Mass Effect 1, 2, 3
The trilogy consists of three primary installments – Mass Effect, Mass Effect 2, and Mass Effect 3. The first game introduced us to Commander Shepard and established the foundation of the Mass Effect universe. The game’s combat system, story, and characters were critically acclaimed, making it one of the most innovative and immersive games of its time.
Mass Effect 2 continued the story and expanded upon the universe created in the first game. New characters were introduced, and the game’s mechanics were refined, making it a worthy successor to the original game. The game also introduced new gameplay elements, such as loyalty missions, where players had to gain the trust of their squad members through completing various quests.
Mass Effect 3 was the final chapter in the trilogy and concluded Commander Shepard’s story arc. The game added fast-paced and action-packed combat, ensuring that players were always on the edge of their seats. The game’s ending was polarizing, but it remains a significant part of the game’s legacy.
The Impact on RPGs
Mass Effect had a significant impact on the RPG genre. The trilogy’s focus on player choice and the consequences that followed was a significant innovation in the gaming industry. The player’s choices could drastically alter the story’s course, leading to multiple endings and experiences.
The franchise was also known for its richly detailed universe and lore. The game’s codex, a database of information about the game’s world, factions, and characters, allowed players to deep dive into the game’s world and learn about its history, politics, and culture.
The game’s dialogue system was also revolutionary. The dialogue wheel is still the standard method of dialogue in RPG games today. The system allowed players to respond to other characters with different tones or attitudes, further adding to the player’s immersion in the game world
The Characters
The Mass Effect trilogy was home to some of the most memorable characters in gaming. Characters like Garrus, Liara, Tali, Wrex, and Joker were beloved by fans and became iconic within the gaming community.
The characters were well-written, complex, and had unique personalities and backstories that were fleshed out throughout the series. The characters’ relationships with each other and the player were central to the games’ story and provided players with emotional moments that they won’t forget anytime soon.
Conclusion
The Mass Effect trilogy was a critical and commercial success. It cemented BioWare’s place as a powerhouse in the gaming industry and revolutionized the way we tell stories in video games. It is no surprise that the game is still held up as a shining example of what RPGs can achieve.
The game’s impact on RPGs is immeasurable, and it continues to influence games today. The game’s focus on player choice, character development, and deep worldbuilding has had an enduring legacy in gaming, and it is sure to continue inspiring new games for years to come.
If you haven’t experienced the Mass Effect trilogy yet, it’s never too late to jump into the world that captivated millions of gamers worldwide.