Mass Effect 3

Reviewed By Reardon Jones

Have gamers ever experienced such a hysterical hype leading into a game than this one? Mass Effect 3 has been lingering in every gamers mind for a long, long time. I’ll tell you what, it’s not without reason.

A conclusion to a trilogy that has spanned several gaming platforms comes to an epic end as the dreaded "reapers" arrive to cleanse the world of all living creatures across a massive universe.

OK, so we recently had a re-crack at Mass Effect 1 and 2 to brush up on all things Mass Effect and aside from the obvious enhancements in gameplay and graphics, the best part of ME3 was reclaiming control of the super cool Commander Shepard.

We won't bore readers with info or plot details from the earlier games, simply because you don’t need to play them to get the full “effect” of this game.

Geting started and you can play as a male or female Commander Shepard. The start up screen allows you to create a profile (Importing previous profiles from the first two games is also an option) to create your characters physical and personal traits.

Before we get into the story of the game, let us make this clear, the scale of this game is huge. It looks, feels and plays out like an interactive Hollywood blockbuster.

Ok, the story. Despite Commander Shepard’s repeated warnings about the impending doom of the universe. The population continue to cry ignorance and disbelief in relation to the mechanical Reapers. 

Bad move folks. Bad move.

This is potentially the worst thing possible as the opening sequence finds Earth under siege from the very “War of the Worlds” like Reapers. As the lay waste to Earth, causing an immediate recall to duty of the only guy who could save the Earth and perhaps the universe.

Launching an odyssey to unite races and planets in a united front and fight against the reapers is the primary mission in Mass Effect 3. Through the use of core and side missions you gather a force that is epic in size and reminiscent of an enormous call to arms as the universe is united in a sole purpose. Survival.

Let's talk gameplay and weaponry. Mass Effect 3 plays like a Sci-Fi COD. I know a lot people won't agree, but hey, take into account these similarities:  You run around in a small group of soldiers, fighting an enemy from all directions, utilising cover where you can and making use of the best weapons for the right enemy and situation. 

OK, a lot of games are like this, but we got a very COD feeling with this game. Maybe it was all the strategy that is needed, similar for games like COD. I’m not saying that this game is a COD! This game simply has elements of warfare that wouldn't be found in a standard Sci-Fi. 

Think a hybrid of COD gameplay and The Fifth Element storyline.

There are plently of discoverable guns and so many explosions, it feels like a Michael Bay directed movie. Mixing up fast and slow weapons (Sniper Rifle with a Mini Pistol) allows for different combat situations each time you head into a mission.

Having been placed back in charge of the Normandy 2, a ship recovered and refitted from the predecessor, you control a crew of interactive and detailed characters (A few old faces make a reappearance).

Upon the Starship an interactive Universe map is used to search for missions and quests that need completing to reach the final sequence (one that will be sure to cause much discussion). 

Having not been as heavily involved into this world as some more die-hard Mass Effect fans, my reaction to one of the three finale options was one of disappointment. I have a sneaking suspiscion Mass Effect enthusiasts will think differently.

A strong multiplayer focus is available within the Mass Effect world. Utlising Co-Op gaming for the first time in the Mass Effect series, you can now join friends online and kick some Reaper ass together. This does require an online pass, but in our opinion, well worth it.

Fact is, it’s more like an amazing interactive movie rather than an old fashioned game, due to the immense narrative and long cut scenes. (The gameplay is great none-the-less). Never before have we felt more a part of a fictional Sci-Fi world then Mass Effect 3. Bravo EA.

If I can give one piece of advice, try and do as many missions both online and off as possible. Everything will help!!!

Let's finish with a terrible pun; I have been left feeling massively effected by this one. Is that even a pun? Regardless, awesome game all round.

Rating: 85%

(Ratings Key/Explanation)