Mass Effect 2

 PC
User Score
8.9

Generally favorable reviews- based on 5738 Ratings

User score distribution:
  1. Positive: 5,081 out of 5738
  2. Mixed: 426 out of 5738
  3. Negative: 231 out of 5738
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  1. TheMaximalist
    Sep 28, 2011
    9
    From Bioware comes the next installment in their sci fi shooter Mass Effect 2. Things begin right after Mass Effect 1's ending and the Normandy and it's crew are sent to investigate the Terminus System where ships have dissapeared. Once again you can play as Shepard who is violently killed when the Normandy is attacked then the organization Cerberus rebuilds you and you have to find outFrom Bioware comes the next installment in their sci fi shooter Mass Effect 2. Things begin right after Mass Effect 1's ending and the Normandy and it's crew are sent to investigate the Terminus System where ships have dissapeared. Once again you can play as Shepard who is violently killed when the Normandy is attacked then the organization Cerberus rebuilds you and you have to find out what is happening and stop it. Instead of being bossed around by the alliance you are bossed around by the Illusive Man voiced by Martin Sheen. The Game looks beautiful and the sound of plasma rushing past your head is great too. The combat is similar to Mass Effect 1 there is some new powers it is lighter on the RPG side but I did not mind that because the devs put extra detail into the battles. This time you have ammo instead of guns heating up which is great. You go to different planets in the game and gather up a crew to fight the enemy. There are little side missions to gain the crews loyalty too to increse the survivability on the final mission and if you suck bad on the final mission you can even get Shepard killed. I didn't make any sexy relationships this time over all that I did was have a girl over for dinner though but then she died. The game is great I have played through it 15 times since i got it ill give it a 9.5 this review will be on my blog also at http://www.maximalistgtg.blogspot.com/… Expand
  2. Tata
    Sep 20, 2011
    8
    I don't know what others see in this game. Yes,it is good, no, It isn't great. Story is kind of a mixed bag; good, but feels extremely unrealistic (yes, I know this is a sci-fi game). The combat part of the game is the worst. I don't know if the console ports have this, but you can shoot from behind a wall even though you don't flat to the wall and companion abilities are done from yourI don't know what others see in this game. Yes,it is good, no, It isn't great. Story is kind of a mixed bag; good, but feels extremely unrealistic (yes, I know this is a sci-fi game). The combat part of the game is the worst. I don't know if the console ports have this, but you can shoot from behind a wall even though you don't flat to the wall and companion abilities are done from your perspective not the one who uses it. These things weren't present in the original game. Insanity difficulty is challenging, despite these irritations/bugs. The other problem is the inventory. You can't change companion armors and when you have to choose yours the stat display feels very misplaced. Character development is great, dialogue is the same. After 3 play-through I can say this game is good, but not great like the original.… Expand
  3. MrPav
    Sep 20, 2011
    10
    You know, it's really hard to say something about Mass Effect 2. Speaking of myself, i was shocked by it.,really. It was such an amazing experience playing it (and BTW, no' i haven't played ME1 by that time) that it's really hard to write a review on this game. Still, i'll try.
    Well, what are the positive features of the game? First of all-amazing graphics. Trust me, you won't see anything    You know, it's really hard to say something about Mass Effect 2. Speaking of myself, i was shocked by it.,really. It was such an amazing experience playing it (and BTW, no' i haven't played ME1 by that time) that it's really hard to write a review on this game. Still, i'll try.
    Well, what are the positive features of the game? First of all-amazing graphics. Trust me, you won't see anything like this in any RPG. Definitely. Secondly, the conversations. The style of them, the decisions you make by them-it's all outstanding. The characters themselves are one of the best characters created in the gaming industry. Each one of them is absolutely different from the other, has his own history, personality. And it's really interesting to discover all this.
    The only negative part of ME2 (i don't think it's bad, but some people do) is that Mass Effect Franchise isn't an RPG anymore. It's all about shooting, which is completely different from the first game, and this may dissapoint some people. I think it's more of a good thing, because it makes the game more breath-taking, but some people may not agree.
    So, finally, what can i say about Mass Effect 2? Awesome. Breathtaking. Amazing. And made me buy the First game ;)    … Expand
  4. laxleonidas
    Sep 16, 2011
    8
    I was impressed by ME1 and when i see the first reviews of ME2 i was sure it will get 10 from me. Unfortunately, reality was brutal. Why BioWare removed sightseeing the planets and substitiuted this dull minigame? Why there's no many weapons and armors? For me, ME2 is a step back.
  5. Sepoquro
    Sep 10, 2011
    10
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. *SOME MINOR SPOILERS*
    I really liked the story, but the combat sometimes gets a little repetitive and the RPG element is just too weak, maybe even weaker than the original Mass Effect.

    Also, thus far (before Mass Effect 3 may reveal some things), the story seemed a little pointless (not saying its not good; it's just mostly irrelevant to ME1). I mean in Mass Effect 1 you discovered about the Reaper threat, and you would have expected that the Reapers show up en masse in ME2, but instead the only thing you find in ME2 that helps with the story long term is what happened to the Protheans and all those before them.

    So really, it is like:
    ME1: Reapers are coming!
    ME2: What, Reapers?
    ME3: Reapers are here!

    Mass Effect 2 could be cut out and the story on the long term is still going to be fine and I doubt anyone would notice it if the new characters are cut out in ME3.    … Expand
  6. HighwayUK
    Sep 5, 2011
    7
    Expands the story very well, although heavily spoilt by amount of DLCs that you have to buy to make the game even halfway decent in length. Paid DLCs is a ripoff no matter how it's marketed, the game is VERY short even with them all.
  7. Doublecross
    Sep 3, 2011
    10
    OMG BEST GAME EVER!!!!!!!!!!! Love love love love it!!!! I really like what they have done with this new installment, I mean i love the whole franchise but, it really just gets better everytime i play it lol.
  8. toxoid
    Aug 29, 2011
    10
    Easily in my all time top 3. People are so afraid to be interested in a game that is not labeled rpg if they have already established themselves as hardcore gamers. Some games that are not role playing, or strategy games are actually good. Believe me when I say its okay to like a couple of shooters. Whether mass effect 2 is a shooter or an rpg, well the definition for rpg can be found allEasily in my all time top 3. People are so afraid to be interested in a game that is not labeled rpg if they have already established themselves as hardcore gamers. Some games that are not role playing, or strategy games are actually good. Believe me when I say its okay to like a couple of shooters. Whether mass effect 2 is a shooter or an rpg, well the definition for rpg can be found all over the internet. It is really sad that before jumping into an amazing game some gamer still have to convince themselves that it is an rpg, seriously guys you're not a gamer if that is all you are interested in. rpg players enjoy story line right?… Expand
  9. zupergozer
    Aug 24, 2011
    10
    this game is really story focused...just the way I like it. the story is fun and well written, gameplay is average but the game also has vehicle sections with horrible controls but you get used at the controls ( to bad that is at the last level) overall one of the best RPGs i have played and i mean in which other game can you bang aliens in space!
  10. auberonh
    Aug 23, 2011
    10
    A true Sci-Fi epic and the best game I have played. With top notch visuals, music, writng, voice acting, and gameplay, a diverse cast of characters, a dark and mysterious plot, this is the current high bar. Plus, it remembers everything you did in the previous game.
  11. Daematune
    Aug 15, 2011
    8
    Despite the fact that nearly all of the RPG content was removed.. Mass Effect 2 still brought in one hell of a game. I seriously wish the main plot line was larger though, you'll easily spend most of this game completing sub quests and building your squad. However, all those dull sounding moments turn out to be truly spectacular.
  12. AWarGuy
    Aug 14, 2011
    10
    Best game I have ever played in my life.
    The soundtrack, voice acting, gameplay. exploring and an open world game. Clocked this game 3 times and I intend to play more of it!

    10/10
  13. Spartan111
    Aug 14, 2011
    9
    The game is very good and better than i expected. The pros: The game is very long especially compared to most games today although the actual main story alone is not very long, the graphics are excellent, good game play that combines 3rd person shooting with class powers that add a tactical element as well as simply making it more fun, there are some great RPG elements, the main being howThe game is very good and better than i expected. The pros: The game is very long especially compared to most games today although the actual main story alone is not very long, the graphics are excellent, good game play that combines 3rd person shooting with class powers that add a tactical element as well as simply making it more fun, there are some great RPG elements, the main being how you want to act and react as well as allow one to customize ones character very well, excellent story with believable, varied characters and world that keeps ones interest, excellent sound, music and especially voice acting.Neutral points that can be improved upon: the hacking and bypassing mini-games are fine but they are too simple and become tedious relatively fast, scanning planets for resources is okay at first but becomes boring quite quickly Cons: Short main story, feels repetitive at times, although the game allows one to customize ones character very well there are not many different weapons or armour available, the game does a good job of creating an illusion that it is a big game but in actual fact it is not. There are only four landable locations, the rest of the locations one only goes there once for a mission. Overall a excellent game that i enjoyed very much although there are a few things that can make it even better.Mass effect 3 just needs to build on the rpg elements and have a bit more variety as well as be a bigger game to surpass it's predecessor, lets hope it does .9/10… Expand
  14. Mystril
    Aug 10, 2011
    10
    10/10.

    I cannot believe that people actually WANT TO SPEND THEIR TIME managing a completely useless inventory, when they can go out and smack enemies about in ME2. I enjoyed the fact that there was no inventory to speak of in ME2, and it was one of the good points of DA II. I like getting new items, I really do, it is awesome to get new good loot. I fully understand that, but I don't    10/10.

    I cannot believe that people actually WANT TO SPEND THEIR TIME managing a completely useless inventory, when they can go out and smack enemies about in ME2. I enjoyed the fact that there was no inventory to speak of in ME2, and it was one of the good points of DA II. I like getting new items, I really do, it is awesome to get new good loot. I fully understand that, but I don't want to have to manage it in an inventory and I don't want to have to swap from Katana I to Katana II and III every damn time I kill an enemy and receive the new and upgraded weapon. Loot should be meaningful, and rewarded from something special (kill boss or complete difficult mission etc.).

    Mass Effect missed some things. It's combat wasn't all that good (ME2 improved on that), it's exploration "system" sucked (ME2 removed and got in planet scanning, imo just remove both), graphics (ME2 improved bigtime), immersion (I felt more inline with my shepard in ME2 than ME1).
    ME 2 did also miss out on some things. In essence, the main story, is rather shallow, it feels like the game is a big mix of side missions, rather than a big main story and some side missions. The storyline could use a little bit of work. In the end, though, I have enjoyed every minute with ME2 and I am super hyped for ME 3.
    I will give it a 9/10 because of the "little" miss on the storyline.    … Expand
  15. LeeVanCleef
    Aug 9, 2011
    10
    The perfect game, more than Mass Effect. Graphics, sound, combat system, story, cinematic animations, missions... all is wonderful. I think this is one of the best gaming experience in the history. Congratulations Bioware
  16. Sealreth
    Aug 8, 2011
    10
    Well I could Describe it in one sentence: One of the best kickassing brilliant si-fi addictive Bioware game ever released Bioware Really really impressed me with part one couldn't wait for 2 had to play it,
    And here it was they did it again, again they made me have tears in my eyes, the story in the mass effect sage is so good it will make you cry ^^

    ROCK on Bioware (and ea)

    Sealreth,
  17. Sangman
    Aug 5, 2011
    8
    To put things into perspective: I liked the first Mass Effect, however I will likely never be able to replay it again because some things in it annoyed me so much, the planet exploration being the biggest offender... Now on to Mass Effect 2, it plays like the first game, except the combat has been much improved and the most annoying things from the first game have been cut out (the tediousTo put things into perspective: I liked the first Mass Effect, however I will likely never be able to replay it again because some things in it annoyed me so much, the planet exploration being the biggest offender... Now on to Mass Effect 2, it plays like the first game, except the combat has been much improved and the most annoying things from the first game have been cut out (the tedious exploration being one of them). Fear not though, in most cases there is a... suitable replacement for those things, so it's not like things like exploration are gone entirely. It's just different, simpler - 'dumbed down' if you wish to call it that.

    Indeed, the RPG elements from the first game have been simplified a bit. The inventory system is gone, the skill/level system has been edited (I don't like the changes to that), the weapon/armor mods are gone for the most part... I'm not too thrilled about all the changes, but it all makes sense in its own way. The inventory was very cumbersome to use in the first game, I felt. Improving it would have been a better idea rather than cutting it though.

    I guess you could say that Mass Effect 2 is now an action/adventure game with some light RPG elements but I'm not sure if that's fair. The dialogue things are still very in-depth and choices you make still affect the outcome of things (albeit sometimes in an unexpected or even nonsensical way) which is what makes an RPG in my eyes and not things like an inventory system.

    Now speaking of dialogue... this is my main pet peeve with Mass Effect 2: the story is not very interesting and most of the characters are just really unlikable. You meet most of the characters from the original game again (depending on choices you made in the first game, if you decide to import a save) but all of them have turned into complete bastards. I liked Garrus in the first game, he seemed like an honorable vigilante kind of guy who'd fight to do the right thing. Mass Effect 2 continues that idea but goes a bit overboard with it by turning Garrus into a bitter, violent guy who shoots criminals like there's no tomorrow. It might seem like an OK evolution of the character but I didn't like it. The same can be said for many other characters.

    There are a lot of other things I could say about Mass Effect 2 but what it boils down to for me is this: it's an excellent action/adventure game with RPG elements, lots of dialogue, an interesting story that **** itself inside out near the end, if you like long epic games you'll enjoy it. I spent 35 hours beating the game (this includes sidequests) and it was time well spent, despite the flaws. I'd say it's better than the first game.    … Expand
  18. gvazdas
    Aug 2, 2011
    10
    This game was really charming, beautiful and interesting.
    The plot twists were really though out, the story was very original and not a copycat from the first game.
    The characters were very developed and the action was improved over the last game. Mass Effect offered very great features and story while Mass Effect 2 improved over every aspect of the game. BioWare has made another great    This game was really charming, beautiful and interesting.
    The plot twists were really though out, the story was very original and not a copycat from the first game.
    The characters were very developed and the action was improved over the last game.
    Mass Effect offered very great features and story while Mass Effect 2 improved over every aspect of the game. BioWare has made another great game with interesting story.    … Expand
  19. sgt0pimienta
    Jul 20, 2011
    10
    Mass effect 2 is AMAZING...if you consider yourself a skilled pc gamer,who even past mass effect 1,with ALL its content it should give up to 40-50 gameplay hours,but remember this issn't to be counted as one game,but as a full story,including ME 1 you should have 80-90 hours,this game has an inmense replay value.

    it only has three issues: You have to play the first one if you wish to    Mass effect 2 is AMAZING...if you consider yourself a skilled pc gamer,who even past mass effect 1,with ALL its content it should give up to 40-50 gameplay hours,but remember this issn't to be counted as one game,but as a full story,including ME 1 you should have 80-90 hours,this game has an inmense replay value.

    it only has three issues:

    You have to play the first one if you wish to ully understand it
    you need a good system,most of the complaints about framerate are because they forgot to get an average video card.
    it has changed to satisfy the action players a bit more,but the rpg players a bit less.

    But overall,with an average to good video card this game shouldt present problems and everyone will enjoy it.    … Expand
  20. davenbettridge
    Jul 17, 2011
    9
    The surprising event to occur at the start of ME2 got me very intrigued on my first play through and as the story unfolded I became hooked in anticipation. ME2 is not a good game because it improves on the short comings of Mass Effect 1, its good because it has an interesting story and setting that has depth and things are at stake to care about, well designed characters aesthetically andThe surprising event to occur at the start of ME2 got me very intrigued on my first play through and as the story unfolded I became hooked in anticipation. ME2 is not a good game because it improves on the short comings of Mass Effect 1, its good because it has an interesting story and setting that has depth and things are at stake to care about, well designed characters aesthetically and with personality, the decision making is not only ambitious but is pulled off very well, brilliantly and originally designed environments, creatures, costume and armour, and technically performs well at least on my PC with game play that feels satisfyingly good. The characters are good and memorable, I actually felt dread when some of them die, if you dont fall in love with Garrus, Tali, Legion, and Thane by the end of ME2 you have problems, I even grew attached to the space ship. I also want to make a big shout out to the legendary soundtrack, everyone must download the track Suicide Mission from Itunes now, its freaken awesome. The lack of depth in the RPG at first seems like a good thing as the shooting mechanics are good but after playing the game for over 60 hours it starts to show is thin side and has you missing some of the lacking RPG of the first game. I also dont think the decisions a player can make are perfect, who in their right mine didnt save the alien counsel in ME1? Who didnt save Wrex? But overall ME2 is a remarkable achievement and a new benchmark for modern single player games!… Expand
  21. snowshreder
    Jul 5, 2011
    8
    I have to admit, this game was fun i enjoyed it quite a bit, Although I cant help but feel like this was meant to be a movie more than a game and i'm talking about a Sci-Fi Grade B movie. I still think the game is worth buying but doesn't deserve a 9.
  22. Brumbek
    Jul 2, 2011
    7
    First, ME2 has brilliant production values. The art design is amazing and the presentation is stellar, like most BioWare games. But strip away all that, and you have a very lacking game, sadly. Missions are greatly stripped down compared to ME1, and even character interaction is "streamlined" for the sake of "accessibility". Actual driving was replaced with a load screen...physicallyFirst, ME2 has brilliant production values. The art design is amazing and the presentation is stellar, like most BioWare games. But strip away all that, and you have a very lacking game, sadly. Missions are greatly stripped down compared to ME1, and even character interaction is "streamlined" for the sake of "accessibility". Actual driving was replaced with a load screen...physically finding minerals was replaced with the infamous mini-game...weapon customization was removed...how is this progress? But the biggest crime is the story...it's totally contrived. Nobody can explain why the bad guys did what they did...the end boss made no sense and was never explained. Where's Saren when you need him... So sorry to say but ME2 has suffered the BioWare effect where they take a great game and make the sequel vastly inferior in order to misguidedly appeal to the "masses". Well this "masses" effect is NOT making things better. ME2 is still a great game...just fatally flawed and is more of a tragicomedy than its developers realize. I score it a 3 compared to ME1, 8 or 9 compared to most games, and a 7 overall.… Expand
  23. rambostyrer
    Jun 26, 2011
    7
    Good game, But a weaker story, and the fact they cut out most of the roleplaying elements, makes it a weaker game than the first, witch is a shame, because what it does well it does really well. good action sequences, I thought the characters, were a lot more interesting this time, we got to see more of the galaxy, places like illium and the Krogan homeworld were interesting places. SoGood game, But a weaker story, and the fact they cut out most of the roleplaying elements, makes it a weaker game than the first, witch is a shame, because what it does well it does really well. good action sequences, I thought the characters, were a lot more interesting this time, we got to see more of the galaxy, places like illium and the Krogan homeworld were interesting places. So Bioware if you wanna make the third Mass effect a smash hit classic, you take a strong story and the roleplaying elements of the first game, and mix it with the action, and more interesting setting of the second.… Expand
  24. MrCinnamon
    Jun 21, 2011
    10
    First off, I want to point out the stupidity of Users giving low scores at the moment. Almost all are giving it a low score because they release DLC's. Thats like criticising an author for releasing each of his books individually over 5 years instead of putting them in a 1000 page omnibus. Mass Effect 2 is a masterpiece. A symphony of stunning graphics, sublime voice acting, innovativeFirst off, I want to point out the stupidity of Users giving low scores at the moment. Almost all are giving it a low score because they release DLC's. Thats like criticising an author for releasing each of his books individually over 5 years instead of putting them in a 1000 page omnibus. Mass Effect 2 is a masterpiece. A symphony of stunning graphics, sublime voice acting, innovative gameplay, incredibly gripping non-linear story and a rich sci-fi universe, brimming with lively characters. This will go down in the history of gaming. One of the greatest RPG trilogies that will ever be made.… Expand
  25. DrakkenPA
    Jun 9, 2011
    10
    Leading off with 10. Games are for fun, enjoyment diversion. ME2 delivered that to me in spades. The biggest gripe from others seems to stem from what an RPG is or isn't. For some the R stands for loot, inventory, tons of gear, options etc. For others the R is the characters, story and action. For me, the R is that latter. I really could care less about the drudgery of inventory andLeading off with 10. Games are for fun, enjoyment diversion. ME2 delivered that to me in spades. The biggest gripe from others seems to stem from what an RPG is or isn't. For some the R stands for loot, inventory, tons of gear, options etc. For others the R is the characters, story and action. For me, the R is that latter. I really could care less about the drudgery of inventory and looting that the original ME1 contained. For those that miss that, it's cool... to each their own. However to consider that "RPG Roots" reaches all the way back to pen and paper games, some of those were loot heavy gear fests and some where story, character and action driven. To claim that ME2 "oversimplifies the RPG genre", it really comes down to what you consider and RPG to be. It's a very individual choice... not an 'ending of the genre' as some might claim. My $0.02… Expand
  26. Powderkeg40
    Jun 5, 2011
    10
    I ended up playing through this one 3 times in full and part of me still feels the draw to have another go. Flat out amazing game one of the best of 2010 for sure and I'd probably rank it in the top 10 games I've played of all time. And I've been gaming since you could fit multiple games on a 5 & 1/4 floppy.
  27. srdrkrm
    Jun 4, 2011
    3
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. It's been a while since I've played newer video games (as in, the last time was in highschool when I owned a N64), and this series seemed well-regarded. I tried to get into it, browsing through the books, comics, trying to get a sense of the whole expanded universe they tried to create. It's sad to be disappointed. Sure, I'll play the third one, just to see how they will tie it up, but I my hopes are not up.

    The first Mass Effect was tedious, but had some charm; this game is really the same, though the source of both the tedium and it's charm is different.

    Really, the only thing I liked was the opening sequence and some of the writing, which was miles ahead of the really uninteresting story. The opening held some promise (the space you could see out of the top of the ship, the emergence of the secret group from the first game.), but quickly squandered it.
    I liked talking to Joker, but I hated going on with the story. Every possible dramatic moment (characters dying, etc.) is so obviously avoidable, it was tremendously boring. It was also kind of weird! how cold the relationship between Shepherd and characters from the previous game were, as in, they act cold around each other. Considering that many of the players of this game spent at least a bunch of hours with these characters in the last game, you'd think the developer would consider this. I also despised the way the worlds were divided into mission and non-mission areas: it's true, it was lame how almost every other bass in the first game was one of three designs, but taking dividing combat and "talking" areas is a really horrible idea that makes everything really boring. It takes out the element of surprise that a fight could break out any minute and makes it a much more uniform experience.

    Also, I know BioWare already acknowledged this, but I don't know how anybody during the conception of the game could think that the planet mining parts was permissible gameplay. Ugh.

    Sure somethings were better in this round: the fighting did feel a lot better, and the actual fighting levels I liked. Again, the actual writing was a bit better, though it was still in b-movie land. The worst part is, considering how singularly boring this plot is, there is no way I can trust any professional reviewer who has claimed that BioWare is the king of "epic storytelling" or something. You obviously have not read enough books, or movies, or music or anything to say such a thing. Unless you mean in video gaming, which means that video games still is a child primarily raised by meat-heads. Well, there goes my first video game review. Alas.    … Expand
  28. Balobam
    Jun 2, 2011
    5
    Let me start of by saying I don't hate the game, I enjoyed it, for about 4 hours, then I didn't.

    I'd heard a lot of good about this game, so I figured, I'll give it a shot, so I did, and I wasn't disappointed, it had shooting, RPG elements, and some fun psychic moves that let me throw people about, can't complain with that. And I played it, went into one room, hid behind a box and    Let me start of by saying I don't hate the game, I enjoyed it, for about 4 hours, then I didn't.

    I'd heard a lot of good about this game, so I figured, I'll give it a shot, so I did, and I wasn't disappointed, it had shooting, RPG elements, and some fun psychic moves that let me throw people about, can't complain with that.

    And I played it, went into one room, hid behind a box and dispatched the enemies in numerous ways, changing cover now and then. Then the next room, I hid behind a crate and dispatched enemies in numerous ways, changing cover now and then. And again, and again. It never changed, it is at heart, a cover based shooter with some RPG elements, even so, the RPG elements are pretty black and white, "Will I shoot this hopeless orphan with my firey kitten gun? Or will I donate all my limbs to the children in need program? Or perhaps I shall remain in a state of permanent apathy and bypass all these mundane problems.".

    That's not good choice making, it's just saying to you, will you be a bad guy, good guy, or neutral? And it even blatantly tells you which is which, "Say this to appear as a rogue who does his own thing, or say this to appear as Jesus himself".

    I played it for several hours, about 10 I believe, before I realised the gameplay wasn't going anywhere and I was essentially playing Gears of War or Rainbow Six under pretence of an RPG in a 3rd person angle, which is my least favourite kind of shooter regardless, the only game I've played that has done it well is Resident Evil 4, even then I couldn't move whilst I shot.

    The story however did, for the 10 hours I played it, seem good, it may have got better, which wouldn't surprise me, it was honestly memorable and I can see why people enjoy it, but it tried to present itself as more than it was, like a dog that claims it can talk and ride a unicycle, whereas it can only ride a tricycle and has no speech mastery. Impressive for sure, but it's not what I was expecting, and there are other games that do it better.

    My last gripe with the game is Jack, I rescued her from prison where she completely breezed through hundreds of robots and guards alike with not a scratch on her, she was truly unstoppable and I couldn't wait to get her on my team, then when she WAS on my team, an aggressive looking shrub would be enough to subdue this once feared God of a woman. My point here is, don't sell me Wonder Woman and then give me a generic horror film girl who lasts about 3 minutes before deciding to "See what that masked figure wants to talk about".    … Expand
  29. karmasleeper
    May 30, 2011
    6
    ME2 PC

    Mass Effect trims many of the RPG elements of the first game resulting in a mostly third person shooter experience. One of my biggest gripes about the first Mass Effect was combat â
  30. Mofoso
    May 30, 2011
    9
    Game play and story line are phenomenal, extremely satisfying, fun and action packed story line with a interesting "Karma" system. Only cons are that the facial graphics and animation in some of the cut scenes are some times awkward and that the cover system is a little corky. Another con is that the lines that Commander Shepard says in some of the cut scenes on occasion are slightlyGame play and story line are phenomenal, extremely satisfying, fun and action packed story line with a interesting "Karma" system. Only cons are that the facial graphics and animation in some of the cut scenes are some times awkward and that the cover system is a little corky. Another con is that the lines that Commander Shepard says in some of the cut scenes on occasion are slightly cheesy. Overall great game with a few minor cons that in no way affect the game play experience but could still be improved.… Expand
  31. schnoogens
    May 29, 2011
    10
    Amazing game. Awesome storytelling, great action sequences, and they removed some of the confusing inventory management from the first game. It's like playing a movie. This is a must-play and is my favorite RPG of all time...it has exceeded Fallout 3.
  32. PET
    May 27, 2011
    8
    I personally enjoyed Mass Effect 1 better. Mass Effect 2 tends to be more of a shooter, with some crappy shooter mechanics. I enjoyed it but I became way to bored. I just wanted to finish it. As I said it's more of a shooter, however the shooter mechanics are not that great. For once, you have limited weapons. I found some of them but never bothere on changing my team mates weapons. NoI personally enjoyed Mass Effect 1 better. Mass Effect 2 tends to be more of a shooter, with some crappy shooter mechanics. I enjoyed it but I became way to bored. I just wanted to finish it. As I said it's more of a shooter, however the shooter mechanics are not that great. For once, you have limited weapons. I found some of them but never bothere on changing my team mates weapons. No need. Second, you don't know which weapon was better? What ar the advantages of XYZ weapon. Nothing. Second, they force you to use other weapons because you will run out of bullets. I persoanlly wanted to play as a sniper. I did this in the first game and it was damn fun. But here, I ran out of bullets so fast that I had to use the assault weapon. After each fight, you need to go to collect bullets... it really out focuses me of the storry. Also, the story is like this: 1. New threat 2. Get a team 3. Each of your members need a "personal favor". 4. If you do their mission, they become loyal. 5. You go to the relay 6. Finish the game That's about it. I finished it in 21 hours and no... it wasn't really that great. What I really enjoyed about the game was the sound. It really used my headphones that have an USB Sound Card. Also. The level up system. Very boring. You have ... like 2 abilities and the rest are different "bullets". ZZZZZZZZZZZzzzzzzzz In Mass Effect 1 you really feel like you are advancing. Getting moints in something and you become better at it. And you can also see the result. 8/10… Expand
  33. Ross_Peterson
    May 27, 2011
    9
    Would give this game a 10 had it not been for the simplification of the RP aspect that made ME1 exceptional. In removing the bugs, awful loading times, and terrible mechanics and travel, ME2 also removed inventory, customization, and a crucial story-arc that is truly dimensional. That being said, Mass Effect 2 is still one of the top video games that have ever been created, right up thereWould give this game a 10 had it not been for the simplification of the RP aspect that made ME1 exceptional. In removing the bugs, awful loading times, and terrible mechanics and travel, ME2 also removed inventory, customization, and a crucial story-arc that is truly dimensional. That being said, Mass Effect 2 is still one of the top video games that have ever been created, right up there with anything you throw at it. From its dazzling cut-scenes to its exceptional game-play, Mass Effect 2 MORE than made up for its flaws, and obliterated Mass Effect 1 in terms of overall quality in comparison. The story was compelling and at times even emotional. A true indication that a video game can be art. This was more than a game, and you would shoot yourself in the foot if you never gave this game a chance.… Expand
  34. North
    May 26, 2011
    4
    Hmm, how should I begin? ME1 was a blast. The story, inventory, choices, teams, exploration...and now in ME2, all the stuffs that made ME1 terrific has been disposed. And all those big gaming magazines praising this sequel with 9/10, 94/100 like scores. >.> I wonder if Bioware actually bribed them to give high scores to ME2... That's why I never read their criticisms. You gotta search forHmm, how should I begin? ME1 was a blast. The story, inventory, choices, teams, exploration...and now in ME2, all the stuffs that made ME1 terrific has been disposed. And all those big gaming magazines praising this sequel with 9/10, 94/100 like scores. >.> I wonder if Bioware actually bribed them to give high scores to ME2... That's why I never read their criticisms. You gotta search for the actual gamer to have a good introspection. And majority of the PEOPLE here would probably agree with me, as I agree with their comments. ME2 is far away from being an RPG game. And I give it 4/10, all for the sake of ME1. And the mixed comments about gameplay, graphics, characters and such are pretty much similar elsewhere. Mine too: the game is short, the story is not well developed, inventory is poor, choices of Shepard does not necessarily have effects within the game, but expected to have effects in ME3? You see how Bioware gets away with this? Thus what I will add to those nagtive and mixed comments is also gonna be my criticism of Bioware's hardline capitalistic policy in robbing people's money and stirring a "mass" anticipation for the third ME game. Now, they promise that if we buy those DLC games additionally, we'll have an idea about ME3 - DLC PRODUCTION HAS BECOME THE VILEST TACTIC IN THE GAMING INDUSTRY. Keep the game short and dully, and release some DLCs and stir up more anticipation. Surely, gamers will "buy" it! With additional cash flowing in Bioware accounts.....

    Should I say don't buy ME2? I don't think I can, cos now you already played ME1, you liked it, and now you want to see the end of it. You're surely gonna buy ME2, no matter how linear and mediocre it is. Because it is a bridge to the final game that is expected to have very high climaxes. And Bioware will have the cream of the business while experimenting RPG and FPS with ME2. ME2 is thus a rather experimental game and I hope that Bioware takes these negative criticisms into account, since they're mostly given by seasoned, experienced gamers!    … Expand
  35. wordy_actions
    May 26, 2011
    10
    Honestly, this is one of the best games I've ever played. The story, character interaction, and dialog is second to none. I've played it through eight times on different characters and each time the emotional turns and set pieces are still impressive. Several fantastic DLC, such as Shadow Broker, have further boosted the game's standing. True, they've removed a lot of classic RPG elementsHonestly, this is one of the best games I've ever played. The story, character interaction, and dialog is second to none. I've played it through eight times on different characters and each time the emotional turns and set pieces are still impressive. Several fantastic DLC, such as Shadow Broker, have further boosted the game's standing. True, they've removed a lot of classic RPG elements like inventory management. But they've created a huge and believable universe to explore and fight in, one that should be the envy of any other RPG. Still it's not a true blood RPG and it shouldn't be called that, but that isn't a bad thing. It's an amazing Action-Shooter-RPG hybrid that has only improved with additional playthroughs. Can't wait for Mass Effect 3!… Expand
  36. Gozeta
    May 25, 2011
    10
    thoroughly enjoyed Mass Effect 2. I replayed this game 3 times. I can not wait for ME3. The only down side is that I can only romance one character at a time! :X
  37. theshonen8899
    May 23, 2011
    9
    If you are reading this you are no doubt aware that this is one of the finest games created in this generation. Regardless of what platform you have, this game is a must play. That being said I'm going to describe the pros and cons of playing the PC version. First off the PC version has some bugs and as of this writing they have no been patched. In the Normandy you will occasionally fallIf you are reading this you are no doubt aware that this is one of the finest games created in this generation. Regardless of what platform you have, this game is a must play. That being said I'm going to describe the pros and cons of playing the PC version. First off the PC version has some bugs and as of this writing they have no been patched. In the Normandy you will occasionally fall through the ship into a pitch black chasm. This is not often, but it happens and it's actually pretty hilarious. When it does happen you can just reload the checkpoint (which is updated often) and go on your merry way. The other problem with the PC version is the Liara mission which was pretty bad. If you don't do Liara's mission immediately after she asks you to do it and you run off to do something else then when you come back there will be a bug where you hack all the terminals but can't proceed in her mission. This ruined one playthrough for me so as long you know to do Liara's mission right away you should be fine. If you can deal with this bugs and you have a good system prepare to be rewarded with the benefits of the PC version. The graphics are far superior to the console versions, with beautiful, high resolution textures and anti-aliasing. Playing it on my 23" 1080p monitor and 5.1 speaker system was a blast. Surprisingly the cutscenes were not rendered in 1080p but in 720p, so the in-game cutscenes looks far better than the pre-rendered cutscenes, ironically. Playing with a mouse and keyboard are also fantastic, but beware that the default keyboard configuration is strange, to say the least. You can quickly customize this to your liking and it will feel much better than playing with a controller, especially since you can now quicksave. Bioware did not map the interactive dialogue to the number keys though, so you're stuck using a mouse to awkwardly choose your dialogue option in a wheel. Overall the problems with the PC version are minimal but if you have the rig to run it, it is definitely worth it.… Expand
  38. DevilhornsMag
    May 22, 2011
    10
    Pure poetry, this is the closest a game has come to true cinematic greatness. Story, characters, feeling, choice, combat, visuals..everything comes together brilliantly in this. Yes please, bring on more of the goodness :)
  39. Lanzmann
    May 21, 2011
    10
    Lacks pace, but that's pretty much it. The experience is enjoyable, the story is still thrilling (even though paces terribly) and the graphics are very good. The excellent soundtrack and voice acting add to it as well. Now, if you're whining that this isn't an RPG, go play The Bard's Tale or something. It's still an incredible game, and beats its predecessor in almost every aspect.
  40. guinevere2
    May 21, 2011
    4
    I do not want the rpg genre to follow the mass effect direction: oversimplifying every rpg aspect: starting from character creation, through the party management, exploration, combat and storyline part of the game. On top of that the game is ridiculous short, overuses same planet/building over and over again and has no replayability value at all. I also found the loading time between zonesI do not want the rpg genre to follow the mass effect direction: oversimplifying every rpg aspect: starting from character creation, through the party management, exploration, combat and storyline part of the game. On top of that the game is ridiculous short, overuses same planet/building over and over again and has no replayability value at all. I also found the loading time between zones to long. It is a scheme to milk as much dollars from the players as possible with shiny, superficial games full of meaningless pseudo - minigames… Expand
  41. Gratson
    May 20, 2011
    9
    Great storyline, fun gameplay. Felt a bit like playing through a movie, was quite enjoyable. Not quite as long as I'd hoped for, but that's the only complaint I have. It's one of the few recent RPGs I didn't get bored of before I finished it, which is mainly due to the enjoyable storyline.
  42. Anaron
    May 18, 2011
    9
    A satisfying game that lives up to the first game in just about every sense. The game allows you to be the galaxy's most-feared renegade or its most-loved paragon. The only downside is the removal of some RPG elements that made the first game quite enjoyable.
  43. R3ct4ngle
    May 15, 2011
    10
    This game has been the most satisfying and addicting game that I have played since Diablo II. The game has its shortcomings (Limited choice for weapons, limited free roaming that differs from ME1, and some glitches that get you stuck) but its positives far outweigh the negatives. As a previous ME1 player it was very nice to see some of my decisions actually appear in the second game. TheThis game has been the most satisfying and addicting game that I have played since Diablo II. The game has its shortcomings (Limited choice for weapons, limited free roaming that differs from ME1, and some glitches that get you stuck) but its positives far outweigh the negatives. As a previous ME1 player it was very nice to see some of my decisions actually appear in the second game. The combat system is fun, and it offers different play styles for different players. I have played through all difficulty levels as all of the classes, most recently playing as a soldier on insanity. The replay value in this single player game is amazing. Great characters, great interactions, great story line.… Expand
  44. illidan4
    May 14, 2011
    10
    Never liked the fantasy genre. By role-playing games treated very coldly. But Mass Effect sunk into the soul and even became a favorite game. Becomes sad when the game ends, because this game want more and more.
  45. zogondragon
    May 14, 2011
    10
    Indeed, a great action RPG game. You should try this, if you are a gamer. Storyline is simplified a little bit, but improved combat system and the depth of characters are compensating that fact.
  46. aikeno
    May 11, 2011
    9
    The most re playable out of any game I have ever owned, far too much fun I cant wait for the third installment. I do hope that they add more RPG element to 3 like more customizable weapons (like in ME1) and armor. And maybe even more powers for biotics. either way I'm looking forward to ME3
  47. Yann
    May 6, 2011
    8
    [FR] La suite magnifique d'un jeu exceptionnel. Mass Effect est un jeux qui mélange jeu de tir à la première personne et jeu de rôle où chaque décision prise influence intégralement l'avenir de votre personnage... Les actions et décisions que vous prennez dans Mass Effect 2 se[FR] La suite magnifique d'un jeu exceptionnel. Mass Effect est un jeux qui mélange jeu de tir à la première personne et jeu de rôle où chaque décision prise influence intégralement l'avenir de votre personnage... Les actions et décisions que vous prennez dans Mass Effect 2 se répercuteront (parfois de manière dramatique) dans la suite tant attendue; Mass Effect 3. Le système d'amélioration d'armes est un pur plaisir et la manŅ Expand
  48. syrik
    May 6, 2011
    4
    This game really has to get two scores. If you play on normal difficulty, like I did my first play through, then it's great. Great story, game play, action, character depth, pretty much does everything right and it earns a solid 8. Play it the second play through on Insanity difficulty and suddenly its a game riddled with bugs and as such id score it a 1. Buggy games drive me crazy andThis game really has to get two scores. If you play on normal difficulty, like I did my first play through, then it's great. Great story, game play, action, character depth, pretty much does everything right and it earns a solid 8. Play it the second play through on Insanity difficulty and suddenly its a game riddled with bugs and as such id score it a 1. Buggy games drive me crazy and I think far far less of an otherwise good game for having them. What causes this discrepancy? On the top level of difficulty the enemies hit hard, really hard. This means you have to act fast and use cover, always, every time. Two problems pop up, first when you turn quickly your character will have a tendency to become detached from the game world and float in the air or suddenly get stuck on top of objects. This doesn't happen all the time, but enough to be called repeatable and definitive. Second problem is cover. While on normal the few times you ducked and hid it probably worked fine. Now, you are ducking and hiding everywhere, fast and frequently. This causes the many surfaces to reveal their true nature where your character will not hide completely and you'll get shot through an object, or your character won't lean out the correct direction and you'll be left open to get shot. There are many many glitched cover surfaces that cause a variety of issues with game play. Besides that there are also a few other bugs present like quests that you can't complete that don't end up affecting anything and also a game killing bug where your game will have a critical crash and close if you change your ability hot keys in combat (there is a quick hotkey UI with bad programming). These very prevalent bugs cause the game heavy problems because they get you killed when you should otherwise be alive. So, all told id give the game a 4. Great story, so so game play that is very dependent on the difficulty setting as to how decent it is and released, yet never fixed, with a repeatable bug that will cause a fatal error.… Expand
  49. TheangryOne
    May 1, 2011
    9
    Too empty for an RPG, too branching for a shooter, Mass Effect 2 sits in a genre all it's own. I'll admit, when it first came out, I thought Mass Effect 2 was just a lousy attempt by Bioware to make money, but with the new free DLC, it began to look like something good. With all the DLC that Bioware's released, it's finally a good game.
  50. idoge25
    Apr 24, 2011
    4
    * A Good Sci-Fi story, in a rich Universe (with good characters)
    * A crapy "on rails" third-person shooter
    * Even crapier time-based minigames, with no possibility to regulate their difficulty
    * Terrible level design, which breaks the suspension of disbelief...
  51. TheArchitect
    Apr 24, 2011
    10
    Awesome!!! Mass Effect 1 was a great game all by itself,but in ME2 Bioware removed almost every flaw of ME1 like boring vehicle drives,generic bases on planets,cluttered inventory,difficult aiming of powers etc.ME2 delivers much more streamlined and fast paced combat that is both fun,engaging and challenging (on higher difficulty levels).Some people claim that ME2 is less RPG than ME1,IAwesome!!! Mass Effect 1 was a great game all by itself,but in ME2 Bioware removed almost every flaw of ME1 like boring vehicle drives,generic bases on planets,cluttered inventory,difficult aiming of powers etc.ME2 delivers much more streamlined and fast paced combat that is both fun,engaging and challenging (on higher difficulty levels).Some people claim that ME2 is less RPG than ME1,I strongly disagree,neither game is a true RPG,both are action RPGs,and ME1 inventory system with millions of upgrades for weapons and armor were more frustrating to most people than enjoyable.While I think that ME2 solution to that issue isnt the best out there,it is an improvement over ME1 though I must criticize the lack of option to change armors for the party members,alternative outfits after they become loyal dont cut it.Everything is well designed,graphics is beautiful,music is epic,voice acting excellent,storyline and party members mostly very well done.Mass Effect universe sucks you right in through a most beautiful cinematic experience where your decisions actually matter,it feels like you are in an interactive movie that is absolutely epic.Story,characters and party members are all very believable and engaging,something that is rarely seen in games.I havent played a game that involved me this much since Baldur's Gate.The game lore is also very convincing and I found myself more than once reading Mass Effect wiki a lot.Cant wait for Mass Effect 3.If you havent played Mass Effect series,do it now,you will not regret it.One of the best games ever that you will play over and over again.It does have few minor flaws like simplicity of the most quests,planet scanning and mining is slow etc.Despite the minor flaws this game delivers so much and sets new standards for games,almost everything in the game is well polished and absolutely lifelike and believable.I recommend you play ME1 too,to get a better feeling for the entire story.I am generally very critical when it comes to dissecting games but ME2 is tough to criticize,all minor flaws are overshadowed by the awesomeness of the rest of the game that is why I cant give it anything less than 10.… Expand
  52. AnnoyingPourage
    Apr 20, 2011
    9
    Easily a 10 for the first 90% of the game. The only thing kept me from calling this "perfect" was how much it built up to the conclusion and then ending abruptly (which is to say how badly I wanted more from it). Great game! As for all the haters that are clearly outnumbered here, why not do yourself a favor and actually try to enjoy this game? Don't you know it takes more muscles to typeEasily a 10 for the first 90% of the game. The only thing kept me from calling this "perfect" was how much it built up to the conclusion and then ending abruptly (which is to say how badly I wanted more from it). Great game! As for all the haters that are clearly outnumbered here, why not do yourself a favor and actually try to enjoy this game? Don't you know it takes more muscles to type hate than to do this - - - > ^_^… Expand
  53. zentoo
    Apr 14, 2011
    9
    I have spend above a 100 hours in mass effect 2, so you might as well ask yourself why I dont give this game a perfect 10. Its quite simply really, there are some small flaws. I will try to explain them, but know the game is really an extremely well designed experience. With that said; I find there are two flaws in this game. First, the number of comrades you pick up in the game is toI have spend above a 100 hours in mass effect 2, so you might as well ask yourself why I dont give this game a perfect 10. Its quite simply really, there are some small flaws. I will try to explain them, but know the game is really an extremely well designed experience. With that said; I find there are two flaws in this game. First, the number of comrades you pick up in the game is to large. Now, you might ask why this could possibly be a problem. This is quite simple, all of them have a "loyalty quest" - and with so many comrades all the sidequests feel a disconnected to the main plot. Add to this that with so many comrades, you never get a special feeling for any of the comrades - like you did in the first mass effect where you had a more limited number of them. Its a shame really.

    The second flaw, is the whole weapon system. This problem is more compounded by several smaller issues. First off is the "new and improved" ammo system, which blows to be honest. The first game had a heatcooldown system, which was actually fine. Now you have what they call "heat clips" that are universal, yet you cant shift them between the your weapons - this is just plain odd. besides the weapon selection is dumbed down to much. You have a severely limited amount of weapontypes to choose from, and the way you upgrade and find them feel.... well to be honest, mildly retarded. But even though the games have these flaws, I will still rate it a 9 for the solid script, plot and surperb gameplay.

    Score (9.0)    … Expand
  54. ZenToad
    Apr 13, 2011
    9
    I have spend above a 100 hours in mass effect 2, so you might as well ask yourself why I dont give this game a perfect 10. Its quite simply really, there are some small flaws. I will try to explain them, but know the game is really an extremely well designed experience. With that said; I find there are two flaws in this game. First, the number of comrades you pick up in the game is toI have spend above a 100 hours in mass effect 2, so you might as well ask yourself why I dont give this game a perfect 10. Its quite simply really, there are some small flaws. I will try to explain them, but know the game is really an extremely well designed experience. With that said; I find there are two flaws in this game. First, the number of comrades you pick up in the game is to large. Now, you might ask why this could possibly be a problem. This is quite simple, all of them have a "loyalty quest" - and with so many comrades all the sidequests feel a disconnected to the main plot. Add to this that with so many comrades, you never get a special feeling for any of the comrades - like you did in the first mass effect where you had a more limited number of them. Its a shame really.

    The second flaw, is the whole weapon system. This problem is more compounded by several smaller issues. First off is the "new and improved" ammo system, which blows to be honest. The first game had a heatcooldown system, which was actually fine. Now you have what they call "heat clips" that are universal, yet you cant shift them between the your weapons - this is just plain odd. besides the weapon selection is dumbed down to much. You have a severely limited amount of weapontypes to choose from, and the way you upgrade and find them feel.... well to be honest, mildly retarded. But even though the games have these flaws, I will still rate it a 9 for the solid script, plot and surperb gameplay.    … Expand
  55. Fireside
    Apr 9, 2011
    8
    Played as a vanguard on the hardest setting (yep, I eat sandwiches with the crust cut off) and had a blast. Was hardcore hard, but doable. Combat is well done and the story is top notch, but there's something about the small restrictive environments that makes me feel a bit claustrophobic. I'd like someone to somehow combine a game like this with the open-world feeling of the Elder Scrolls games.
  56. Andr9492
    Apr 9, 2011
    9
    Mass Effect 2 has a good if not the best story in a game i have ever seen and there for the story is also the main selling point. The gameplay is not Super but it is ok. I would give it 9,5 if i could. But now its 10. Its my favorite game.
  57. Kaptain
    Apr 4, 2011
    10
    Mass Effect 2 is the most engaging RPG I have played to date. Having never played the first Mass Effect I was afraid I would be lost jumping in to what I had learned to be an intended trilogy. That was not the case. Bioware did a fantastic job of establishing Mass Effect 2 as its own story while giving the player a feeling of deep historical conflicts in a very active world. Having theMass Effect 2 is the most engaging RPG I have played to date. Having never played the first Mass Effect I was afraid I would be lost jumping in to what I had learned to be an intended trilogy. That was not the case. Bioware did a fantastic job of establishing Mass Effect 2 as its own story while giving the player a feeling of deep historical conflicts in a very active world. Having the ability to choose your own spoken dialogue within the trademarked Bioware dialogue wheel connects players in a way never before experienced. Playing through this game really gives you the feeling that the choices you make matter (because they do) and that you are the star of your own epic journey. For me, the shooter-esque gameplay is secondary to Mass Effects remarkable interactive adventure. The player is in control be it good or bad, and your decisions impact the game flow and dictate morality. What I mostly love about Bioware games is that they don't just give you the choice of good vs evil, in some instances, the choice boils down to which is the greater good, or which is the greater evil. Beyond that, some situations just put the player in a real moral dilemma with no clear right or wrong. All in all, whether you are an RPG fan, or Joe Customer looking for an all inclusive gameplay experience, Biowares Mass Effect series is hands down one of the greatest video game achievements to grace the senses of game enthusiasts. I for one, cannot wait till Bioware releases their third and final installment of the series titles Mass Effect 3 late 2011. If you are looking for a gaming experience, full of twists and turns, redemption and peril, this game will not disappoint. 9.5/10 , I'll be saving my perfect score for what I presume ME3 will undoubtedly deliver.… Expand
  58. vaell
    Mar 29, 2011
    9
    I enjoyed this game a lot, but agree with other critics that they took away a very fun element, which was the RPG element, probably a bit less micromanagement was the way to go, not completely removing it.

    I also found it a bit short, kinda disappointed that i have to pay to get any more extra content that should have been included as side quests for the money i payed...
  59. frax_bigos
    Mar 28, 2011
    7
    Too many differences between the first and second chapter of this title may disorient some Mass Effect's fans. The game is drastically action-oriented and it should be classified as an action-rpg.
    The game experience is fun and immersive. It has many strengths, but also some weaknesses that puts it still away from being a true masterpiece. Pros:
    -Great storyline: worthy of Star Wars    Too many differences between the first and second chapter of this title may disorient some Mass Effect's fans. The game is drastically action-oriented and it should be classified as an action-rpg.
    The game experience is fun and immersive. It has many strengths, but also some weaknesses that puts it still away from being a true masterpiece. Pros:
    -Great storyline: worthy of Star Wars series
    -Detailed background history
    -Great character psychological profiles
    -Fluid and intensive action
    -Immersive scenarios
    -Good sound-tracks
    -Many hours of game

    Cons:
    -Too easy, even the most difficult levels of play
    -Some graphical glitches in the dialogues
    -Really poor and boring exploration feature
    -Few and anonymous sub-quests

    Love it or hate it... two thumbs up for me!    … Expand
  60. Squadinho
    Mar 25, 2011
    9
    Mass Effect 2 improves on many areas of its predecessor, which is no mean feat. The majority of the storyline is enjoyable and continues on from where Mass Effect left off, but it starts off poorly and in an almost unnecessary way. However, the path the story takes; spending 90% of the game recruiting your team is a disappointing way to spend your time. The core storyline missions howeverMass Effect 2 improves on many areas of its predecessor, which is no mean feat. The majority of the storyline is enjoyable and continues on from where Mass Effect left off, but it starts off poorly and in an almost unnecessary way. However, the path the story takes; spending 90% of the game recruiting your team is a disappointing way to spend your time. The core storyline missions however are fun and challenging. It was great to see that Bioware have learnt from some of the mistakes they made in Mass Effect 1; mostly the boring and repetitive Mako missions and extremely repetitive side quests where you enter the same bunker 100â… Expand
  61. m2pilot
    Mar 21, 2011
    10
    Simply the best game ever. You will never find a game with a better story line. Period. The graphics make your eyes want to tear up, the story makes you want to never quite player (and you won't) and impact of your decisions are felt throughout the game. An absolute must have. Anyone dissing this game has issues. It has one nearly every single award out there for a reason.
  62. Greggor
    Mar 21, 2011
    10
    ME2 was a huge improvement over its predecessor. Not only did they remove many of the irritating tidbits that bogged players down in the level-up and equipment screens for hours, but they also improved gameplay drastically. The result is a well-made, fun game that easily makes the top of my list of games in 2010.
  63. markweb1985
    Mar 19, 2011
    10
    The perfect game, more than Mass Effect. Graphics, sound, combat system, story, cinematic animations, background, missions... they are great. Congratulations Bioware!
  64. mjwilliams84
    Mar 17, 2011
    8
    Mass Effect 2 has the feel of directing a multi-million dollar blockbuster. You don't create your own character nor roleplay it per sé, you just guide and direct the epic sci-fi story as it unfolds. Superbly written characters, a much improved cover/shoot combat system and streamlined stats make it a very worthy time-sink indeed. Highly recommended for fans of RPG andMass Effect 2 has the feel of directing a multi-million dollar blockbuster. You don't create your own character nor roleplay it per sé, you just guide and direct the epic sci-fi story as it unfolds. Superbly written characters, a much improved cover/shoot combat system and streamlined stats make it a very worthy time-sink indeed. Highly recommended for fans of RPG and FPS-centric games alike.… Expand
  65. Kaizoku2793
    Mar 17, 2011
    10
    Mass Effect 2 is just simply epic only second to Dragon age Origins and Oblivion. It surpasses Mass Effect in every way possible. Cannot wait for Mass Effect 3.
  66. obscurus166
    Mar 16, 2011
    7
    I enjoyed Mass Effect 2, I really did. But when I'd finished it, I felt...unsatisfied. Perhaps it was because the tactical element to the game - issuing orders to squad-mates - was really a bit of a fig-leaf, because I could get on perfectly well without them for most of the game. Perhaps it was because there wasn't much opportunity to interact with my crew. Perhaps it was because theI enjoyed Mass Effect 2, I really did. But when I'd finished it, I felt...unsatisfied. Perhaps it was because the tactical element to the game - issuing orders to squad-mates - was really a bit of a fig-leaf, because I could get on perfectly well without them for most of the game. Perhaps it was because there wasn't much opportunity to interact with my crew. Perhaps it was because the dialogue wheel is perhaps one of the most frustrating means of interacting in a conversation ever devised in an RPG, and what I thought I was saying was frequently not what I actually said. But mostly it's because the game runs on rails. There is no real opportunity to go off on a frolic of your own: BioWare has a story, and they're going to tell it, whether you like it or not. It feels like a smaller game than the original. On the positive side, the graphics are an improvement on the original - which wasn't bad --, the voice acting is good and the plot is engaging, when it's not being rammed down my throat. But there isn't actually very much to do and I did have the impression that I was just pressing buttons between cut-scenes for quite a lot of the game.… Expand
  67. Underscore
    Mar 15, 2011
    7
    Initially, I had fairly low expectations for the game, I'd seen it in passing by GameStop a couple times, heard the name, confused it with Dead Space, Fissure (Or whatever the name was, where you have some nice Spore World-Shaper guns), and any other sci-fi shooter.
    My friend insisted I play it, and I was reluctant, to say the least, but eventually I tried it.
    Great story, great    Initially, I had fairly low expectations for the game, I'd seen it in passing by GameStop a couple times, heard the name, confused it with Dead Space, Fissure (Or whatever the name was, where you have some nice Spore World-Shaper guns), and any other sci-fi shooter.
    My friend insisted I play it, and I was reluctant, to say the least, but eventually I tried it.
    Great story, great characters, great voice acting (Besides male-shep. Weird, seeing as it's a talented voice actor, maybe the director is to blame here?), great graphics (Though I'm not one to end a decision on graphics at all), and a wonderful assortment of Mage/Warrior/Rogue-esque classes brought into the future. The explanations for some of the things in the game are a little wonky, but it's a fantasy game.    … Expand
  68. TerrymcG
    Mar 13, 2011
    5
    Mass Effect 2 really is a mixed bag. One the one hand, one can't help but be impressed with the quality of the audiovisual presentation. The voice actors are probably the best in the business and they are able to create an atmosphere unlike in any other games. Especially Jennifer Hale as the female Shepard deserves a lot of praise for her work. The modelers, animators and texture artistsMass Effect 2 really is a mixed bag. One the one hand, one can't help but be impressed with the quality of the audiovisual presentation. The voice actors are probably the best in the business and they are able to create an atmosphere unlike in any other games. Especially Jennifer Hale as the female Shepard deserves a lot of praise for her work. The modelers, animators and texture artists are incredibly talented as well and their work is impressive to behold. Most of the dialog is well written, which is pretty rare for a computer (or should I say video?) game.

    But on the other hand, the actual game play is somewhat clumsy and even boring. Bioware (or perhaps EA?) essentially dropped almost all of the RPG elements and tried to go for a Gears of War type of game play. How ever, they couldn't pull it of. Gears of War is far more fluid and the game play in that game is high octane adrenaline rush. Where as ME2 game play is something from the previous decade. It's unresponsive , repetitive and dull. Duck and cover, point and click. The less said about the embarrassing mini games, the better.

    Bioware prides itself in being able to tell great stories. And while the method of the story telling in ME2 is nice, the actually story is almost non existent. It feels more like a collection of side quests, rather than a really story.

    In the end, one gets the feeling that Bioware is trying to reach out to new gamers. And in doing so, they have decided to ditch the traditional RPG elements. Whether this strategy works for them, I can't really say, but for my part, I will no longer associate the Bioware brand with high quality RPG's. Mass Effect 2 is really an interactive movie with a shoddy fps game. And because games are incredibly expensive, spending money on a mediocrity is simply not worth it. Spend your money on good books or movies instead.    … Expand
  69. shokwaav
    Mar 13, 2011
    9
    Very fun game. Deserved GOTY on IGN.

    Good: Loved the first one, second one's storyline was epic too. Soundtrack epic. Voice acting epic. Beautiful worlds. Graphics were decent. Problems: mining is bad. not enough RPG elements. AI squadmates are slightly annoying.
  70. TheUnicorn
    Mar 12, 2011
    1
    The gameplay was a serious disappointment from the first Mass Effect. I am an RPG player and loved the first one so much that I snapped up the second without thinking to find that I had an FPS. While I enjoy a good FPS every once in awhile, I don't look for one titled as an "RPG". They got rid of the dynamic tutorial which reflected key remapping, dropped the small battle map, which IThe gameplay was a serious disappointment from the first Mass Effect. I am an RPG player and loved the first one so much that I snapped up the second without thinking to find that I had an FPS. While I enjoy a good FPS every once in awhile, I don't look for one titled as an "RPG". They got rid of the dynamic tutorial which reflected key remapping, dropped the small battle map, which I loved, brutalized the story (Did they actually play the first game?), and made the characters into cardboard cutouts. Spike VGA gave this game the award og "BEST RPG of 2010" according to the Mass Effect 3 news release. Clearly they were incredibly high on something.… Expand
  71. The_Gooser
    Mar 12, 2011
    10
    Fantastic game. Different from the first, but great in it's own way. People are afraid of change and that's what this game did. Mass Effect 2 separated itself from the first Mass Effect giving players another great 50+ hour game. I have no complaints whatsoever about ME2, I highly recommend it. But, if you happen to be one of these "I hate change, make the game how I want it" type ofFantastic game. Different from the first, but great in it's own way. People are afraid of change and that's what this game did. Mass Effect 2 separated itself from the first Mass Effect giving players another great 50+ hour game. I have no complaints whatsoever about ME2, I highly recommend it. But, if you happen to be one of these "I hate change, make the game how I want it" type of players, then move along this might not be for you.… Expand
  72. animefan1976
    Mar 12, 2011
    6
    Disappointed in the direction the devs took with this one. The first game was so much better in respect to the the RPG roots it branched from. This game seems more like a comic book than a story in a novel, which is what the first felt like. While it is a fun game, it's really to dumbed down. Many things were made far too simple and the game lost all complexity and about the only thingDisappointed in the direction the devs took with this one. The first game was so much better in respect to the the RPG roots it branched from. This game seems more like a comic book than a story in a novel, which is what the first felt like. While it is a fun game, it's really to dumbed down. Many things were made far too simple and the game lost all complexity and about the only thing you can customize is weapon loadouts and your armor. Can't even customize the weapons themselves anymore. Mirnada is walking around in a catsuit with high heels in space! Come on! Ammo powers passed off as skills by class? What a joke. If I didn't actually care what happened in the story and the romances, I would give this game a far worse review than I have.… Expand
  73. PalladiumGM
    Mar 11, 2011
    6
    Mass Effect 2 is a very polished and occasionally brilliant RPG. Prepare to be disappointed by a lack of customization, a loss of freedom and the nagging feeling that it's just an on rails shooter in disguise. Also DLC delivery is this game's reason to be and if you don't want to pay through the nose, wait for the eventual 'ultimate' package with everything in it and buy it shortlyMass Effect 2 is a very polished and occasionally brilliant RPG. Prepare to be disappointed by a lack of customization, a loss of freedom and the nagging feeling that it's just an on rails shooter in disguise. Also DLC delivery is this game's reason to be and if you don't want to pay through the nose, wait for the eventual 'ultimate' package with everything in it and buy it shortly before/after ME3 comes out.… Expand
  74. paritosh47
    Mar 10, 2011
    10
    Those who are saying ME2 is one of the best rpg are not familiar with the term 'evolution'.......ME2 is not one of the best rpg......its THE best rpg ever made....its the evolution in rpg genre mixed with third person shooter elements.......epic storyline......hardcore decision making......memorable characters......legendary protagonist which is defined by users........nd extremeThose who are saying ME2 is one of the best rpg are not familiar with the term 'evolution'.......ME2 is not one of the best rpg......its THE best rpg ever made....its the evolution in rpg genre mixed with third person shooter elements.......epic storyline......hardcore decision making......memorable characters......legendary protagonist which is defined by users........nd extreme graphics(no doubt visually pc version is better than both xbox 360 nd ps3)......the best part of the game is that the decisions made by you in ME1 will directly effect the storyline if save games are imported.....i will not disclose more detail...ITS A MUST PLAY GAME.......MASS EFFECT SERIES IS THE BEST SERIES I HAVE EVER LIVED..........WAITING FOR MASS EFFECT 3....… Expand
  75. mt2e
    Mar 9, 2011
    10
    The reason I'm giving it a 10 instead of a 9 is because I would honestly feel bad because in my heart it felt like a 10, in my logical mind it felt like a 9. First off the story, the acting, the delivery of both of those is the best I'v EVER seen in any video game. The combat is so crisp, clean, entertaining that I was in disbelief the first time I was able to shoot anything. RatingThe reason I'm giving it a 10 instead of a 9 is because I would honestly feel bad because in my heart it felt like a 10, in my logical mind it felt like a 9. First off the story, the acting, the delivery of both of those is the best I'v EVER seen in any video game. The combat is so crisp, clean, entertaining that I was in disbelief the first time I was able to shoot anything. Rating this game a 10 but there are still improvements I could see being made, like the mini games, a more diverse mini game experience. Honestly this game is so good that dosen't even matter because while doing a mini game I was so pleased with everything else I didn't care. Good games let u ignore the small faults, because those can be improved on. Honestly this game was like watching Star Wars for the first time.....for me it was like when I use to watch Star Trek Voyager every week when that series just came out....it was well...an unforgettable experience. a 10 ALL DAY.… Expand
  76. lakedaimon
    Mar 7, 2011
    10
    If you are a fun of mass effect universe then it is an absolute buy.Less rpg then the first one but the story is a masterpiece!It also has a lot of dlc out that gives a great value.
  77. RiktheRuler
    Mar 6, 2011
    10
    This game was very enjoyable. The graphics were great, the story line was great, the movie clips were not to time consuming and the fighting was fun. The only thing that was borderline boring was the way you went about gaining necessary points or resources for upgrading weapons but it was not bad and I found out in the end I did way more than necessary. The only thing I would complainThis game was very enjoyable. The graphics were great, the story line was great, the movie clips were not to time consuming and the fighting was fun. The only thing that was borderline boring was the way you went about gaining necessary points or resources for upgrading weapons but it was not bad and I found out in the end I did way more than necessary. The only thing I would complain about is the total lack of need for the sexual content to make this a good game. I don't understand why it was put in there. I would love to have played this game with my son but not going to happen due to this content plus borderline unacceptable as a married man. Most men would probably not feel comfortable with their wives or daughters watching as they played this game. Why is that necessary? Great game other than that though.… Expand
  78. SteelSoapy
    Feb 26, 2011
    10
    This is the most satisfying game I have ever played. In many series, the first game makes a hit, but then the sequels are usually just little different versions that are no better or just worse than the first. This is a huge exception. The first was great, but Mass Effect 2 is so much better. People are not happy about the less customizations in the game. Sure, I understand, but it wasThis is the most satisfying game I have ever played. In many series, the first game makes a hit, but then the sequels are usually just little different versions that are no better or just worse than the first. This is a huge exception. The first was great, but Mass Effect 2 is so much better. People are not happy about the less customizations in the game. Sure, I understand, but it was more satisfying not to have to mess with it and just shoot, throw, and electricute things while fighting. There is still customization, just not as upgrades. It's mostly just armor parts, finding another weapon, or armor colors and pieces. It's better for the people who just want to play and enjoy the movie-like game. The many choices and path ways for your character to go through dictate what happens in the future of the story. Also, some events in this game are a result of what happened in your character's story in the first Mass Effect whether you import your character or not. It's just amazing and easy to get sucked into just like a great movie. Just like my first Mass Effect review, this is something that you have to walk into not expecting it to be like any other game or run the same way as its prequel, which has disappointed people. Mass Effect 2 is in a league of its own, making it one of the top rated PC games of all time on Metacritic (94).… Expand
  79. apaeth
    Feb 19, 2011
    7
    Kill a few enemies, recruit a party member, mine for minerals, purchase upgrades. Rinse and repeat, rinse and repeat, rinse and repeat. Prepare for final battle, engage enemy - GAME OVER!!! A good game but not a great one.
  80. JonesR
    Feb 17, 2011
    6
    This is a cross between third person shooter Gears of War and RPG Dragon Age. While being good at both genres, the game never strives to be great at either. The graphics, voice acting, and cinematic scenes are what really shines the most. However, the 94 metascore rating seems very generous. The level design is linear, character development is flat, the RPG experience is weak, and theThis is a cross between third person shooter Gears of War and RPG Dragon Age. While being good at both genres, the game never strives to be great at either. The graphics, voice acting, and cinematic scenes are what really shines the most. However, the 94 metascore rating seems very generous. The level design is linear, character development is flat, the RPG experience is weak, and the story provides paltry excitement at best--an over-hyped snoozer.… Expand
  81. Juiblex
    Feb 8, 2011
    4
    I liked the story and combat but that's about it. The RPG element isn't there, the characters are pretty limited in abilities/weapons, the programing isn't all that good either. I get stuck in the air and in cut scenes characters would be spinning, and there was a fair deal of crashes to desktop. I cant say that this is a good game but it isn't completely worthless. Play it once throughI liked the story and combat but that's about it. The RPG element isn't there, the characters are pretty limited in abilities/weapons, the programing isn't all that good either. I get stuck in the air and in cut scenes characters would be spinning, and there was a fair deal of crashes to desktop. I cant say that this is a good game but it isn't completely worthless. Play it once through and be done with it, I don't see what big hype was with this game, it's average at best.… Expand
  82. Sarge376
    Feb 4, 2011
    10
    Bioware.. is there a better RPG developer? If so, Mass Effect 2 extinguishes any doubt. A stunningly beautiful game with spectacular scenery and amazing visuals, this game will not disappoint when it comes to eye candy. A step up from the traditional RPG style of Bioware, the games combat allows real time combat and decent shooter action, with the well known Bioware stragetical pausingBioware.. is there a better RPG developer? If so, Mass Effect 2 extinguishes any doubt. A stunningly beautiful game with spectacular scenery and amazing visuals, this game will not disappoint when it comes to eye candy. A step up from the traditional RPG style of Bioware, the games combat allows real time combat and decent shooter action, with the well known Bioware stragetical pausing weve grown accustomed to all mixed together. The games real strengths come from the plot, which allows the player to choose various conversation choices aswell as plot paths which can make dramatic consequences to the way the player experiences and inevitably ends the game. If you are a veteran of RPGs or wanting to dip your toe in and test the water, Mass Effect 2 is an excellent game to experience. The worst thing about this game is the time waiting for Mass Effect 3 to be released. 10/10.… Expand
  83. GeorgeA
    Jan 25, 2011
    6
    Mass Effect 2 definitely has positive sides, but it's terribly overrated. The plot is mediocre at best, half of the game you will be just looking for your future team members and only some of them (like Samara, Garrus or Tali) are interesting, the rest are boring or even annoying. The game is also pretty short for an RPG- about 25 hours if you complete every sidequest and explore half ofMass Effect 2 definitely has positive sides, but it's terribly overrated. The plot is mediocre at best, half of the game you will be just looking for your future team members and only some of them (like Samara, Garrus or Tali) are interesting, the rest are boring or even annoying. The game is also pretty short for an RPG- about 25 hours if you complete every sidequest and explore half of the galaxy. Exploring planets is for resources is extremely annoying and ruins all the fun. Also there is almost no freedom of choice and it is purely cosmetic. The replay value is also pretty low: you will be doing the same thing again and again and changing classes will only make the game harder. So why not just stick to the soldier class, which is virtually unbeatable? The shooting also felt boring and on some levels, i thought i was playing some mediocre third-person shooter with hordes of enemies to beat, rather than an action RPG. By the way, there are almost no RPG elements left and as for what's left, it doesn't have any significant impact on gameplay. Graphically, the game is also a major disappointment. After so many critics praised the game's graphics, I thought the game would look near photorealisitc. What a letdown! Models look generally good, but textures are bland and the game lacks details. As for positive sides, the voice acting is good, storyline has it's good moments, music is excellent, the world, where the game takes place, is also very interesting. In all, the game is worth playing once, but without the replay value, it quickly becomes boring and dull.… Expand
  84. veridian
    Jan 25, 2011
    10
    To me, in short, ME2 is close to plain awesome, in almost every aspect. Hats off to Drew Karpyshyn for inventing the ME universe, for the books and game script (and of course to all the team who participated in game development). The story, the execution, the choices, animations, combat, dialogue, immersion, believable characters, graphics, music - I was impressed. DLCs add some new actionTo me, in short, ME2 is close to plain awesome, in almost every aspect. Hats off to Drew Karpyshyn for inventing the ME universe, for the books and game script (and of course to all the team who participated in game development). The story, the execution, the choices, animations, combat, dialogue, immersion, believable characters, graphics, music - I was impressed. DLCs add some new action to the game, and if you're a fan of the franchise, you know what to do. All in all, you are left wanting more, expecting the final part of the trilogy. Highly recommended!… Expand
  85. agalloch
    Jan 25, 2011
    6
    Starts out with an unnecessary, and hypocritical bang, and doesn't get much better. The characters are stiff in my eyes, though have well developed background stories. The fighting is fun at first, but the game is far too easy and fighting becomes very expected (hint: if you see barriers, you're in for a boring fight). Hacking is interesting, then repetitive and dull. The story is notStarts out with an unnecessary, and hypocritical bang, and doesn't get much better. The characters are stiff in my eyes, though have well developed background stories. The fighting is fun at first, but the game is far too easy and fighting becomes very expected (hint: if you see barriers, you're in for a boring fight). Hacking is interesting, then repetitive and dull. The story is not enough to fill up the lengthy gameplay. Annoying bugs.… Expand
  86. fleischverpacku
    Jan 19, 2011
    6
    Downgraded mainstream sequel

    Most missions follow an identical procedure. RPG depht suffers from poorer skilling options and a more linear levelstructure than the first title. architectual patterns often repeat. The story adds additional depht to the universe, but conservative implementations such as ammunition or fuel subvert the logic of the immersive gameworld. Visuals are stunning!    Downgraded mainstream sequel

    Most missions follow an identical procedure. RPG depht suffers from poorer skilling options and a more linear levelstructure than the first title. architectual patterns often repeat. The story adds additional depht to the universe, but conservative implementations such as ammunition or fuel subvert the logic of the immersive gameworld. Visuals are stunning! The characters are well drawn and bring their own background story.    … Expand
  87. Sapphon
    Jan 17, 2011
    6
    Mass Effect 2 is a very playable, often exciting, beautifully crafted, very flawed game. If it had been named something else, say "Space Times With Ttitielady And Toadman Clone", I'm sure I'd even say I was impressed. But it's not named that; it's named "Mass Effect" and it does not live up to its ambitions in that regard.

    +The game's graphics are pretty. +You don't have to manage your    Mass Effect 2 is a very playable, often exciting, beautifully crafted, very flawed game. If it had been named something else, say "Space Times With Ttitielady And Toadman Clone", I'm sure I'd even say I was impressed. But it's not named that; it's named "Mass Effect" and it does not live up to its ambitions in that regard.

    +The game's graphics are pretty.
    +You don't have to manage your inventory anymore.
    +Play (in combat) as some classes is as engaging as the original; play as others has vastly improved; in no case has it gotten worse. This is a big plus.
    +BioWare's usual well-acted scripts with attention to plot holes and detail.

    -The game has a mere shadow of a plot. Most of the game is incredibly meta about its lack of a plot in a way that will rip you out of the immersion in no time. It is this author's opinion that the writers of this trilogy know what they want to do and how, but only really have the material for games 1 and 3. 2 was a marketing necessity.
    -Some of the game's characters are written like they crawled out of a bad JRPG. Let's not go back to those days.
    -The characters that aren't bad are engaged in some pretty heinously fanservice stuff.
    -If you liked all the inventory management and number crunching from ME1, you'll miss that (I didn't especially).
    -There is a "final boss". And he will make you laugh.
    -The number of choices the player can make that affect the game with ME2 has greatly increased, but they are almost all superficial. Usually when you play a BioWare game, sooner or later you are afforded an option that really clicks with what you've been thinking. In ME2, for the purposes of the meagre plot, the only decision that you might have made that would really change things, you can only make one way. In pen and paper gaming this is called "railroading" and is looked on as very poor writing indeed.    … Expand
  88. Job41
    Jan 13, 2011
    9
    Although completely abandoning the RPG genre, this game is a epic experience which I enjoyed until the very last moment.

    Reaper menace is the most fearsome I have seen on many years, feeling a true sense of urgency many times.

    I feel the new allies are a bit depressing. Most of them are too though and a little of naivety would have been welcomed.
  89. Nickompoop
    Jan 4, 2011
    9
    The Good: The difference between a plot and a story is that the plot is what happens, and the story is what the book/movie/video game is about. The plot of ME2 is incredibly awesome. It's epic, fast-paced, and quite original. The story, not so much, but I'll get to that later. The voice acting overall is quite good. The gameplay mechanics are solid and responsive. The bots areThe Good: The difference between a plot and a story is that the plot is what happens, and the story is what the book/movie/video game is about. The plot of ME2 is incredibly awesome. It's epic, fast-paced, and quite original. The story, not so much, but I'll get to that later. The voice acting overall is quite good. The gameplay mechanics are solid and responsive. The bots are average, though I have yet to see good video game AI in any game. The side quests are immersive and entertaining. The characters are relatable and your relationships with them are believable. You don't have to micromanage your squad's weapons, armor, and mods anymore (thank God) and this makes the game much more streamlined, even if it's more of an FPS as a result.

    The Bad: The story seems too short and it's like Bioware stuck in the loyalty missions just to add length to the game. That's not to say that these missions aren't rewarding or entertaining; in fact they're better than some of the plot missions. The final battle is disappointingly easy when compared to the final battle in ME1 and it was actually harder to get to the room where it takes place than to actually win the fight. I also did not like how they took out the driving portions of the game. Now, I know most people hated driving that car in ME1, but I liked it, and it was certainly better than just scanning the planet for the resources you need.

    The Ugly: (DISCLAIMER: Some of these issues may have been due to the fact that my computer is slightly underpowered and not due to the actual game.) Blinking still looks freakin weird with eyelids and eye lashes overlapping and showing through each other and just being a bit disturbing. Occasionally, if I was walking too close to a wall that had kind of a slope, I'd get stuck on it and wouldn't be able to move. Facial expressions look odd and slightly robotic, but the voice acting makes up for it so I'm good. Sometimes during a cut scene the camera would go inside Shepard or some other character and obstruct my view until the camera moved a little. Very rarely (like once or twice) the game would lock up for 30 to 45 seconds inside the Normandy, but then it kept moving and everything was fine.

    Overall, I absolutely loved this game. It has definitely moved to the Number 1 spot on my list of Best Games Ever, beating out Twilight Princess. Buy it. NOW.    … Expand
  90. GraveHeart521
    Jan 3, 2011
    10
    Greatest game ever dudes!!Graphics awesome,the best story,characters are perfect and so much more!!don't listen to the haters cause you will miss the Best game!!!
  91. not_good
    Jan 3, 2011
    8
    They cut out a lot of the fluff of the first game. Not as many weapons or armor to choose from, but really, most of it got melted into omni gel which is no longer needed. They ditched the Mako parts which is good. A lot of the rpg leveling system got cut, but again it was mostly fluff stuff like the equivalent of lockpicking, which is just a universal type skill now. This game is aThey cut out a lot of the fluff of the first game. Not as many weapons or armor to choose from, but really, most of it got melted into omni gel which is no longer needed. They ditched the Mako parts which is good. A lot of the rpg leveling system got cut, but again it was mostly fluff stuff like the equivalent of lockpicking, which is just a universal type skill now. This game is a satisfying experience with a high replay value. Much improved on from the first.… Expand
  92. liho1eye
    Dec 30, 2010
    8
    Great story. Nice improvement to combat since ME1. Cool and fun game.
    On downside upgrade system was dumbed down. Dialogs make me want to punch people. Clipping into walls and ceiling.
  93. Itsapaul
    Dec 26, 2010
    10
    Really the best shooter to come out for a while, but I can't stand fps games so maybe I'm biased. Its not really an rpg since theres no loot or inventory involved, and customization is strictly powers-based since you're going to get the upgrades for all your guns anyway (and those all have specific uses so you can't be a "shotgun x" 100% of the time really). The story is top notch andReally the best shooter to come out for a while, but I can't stand fps games so maybe I'm biased. Its not really an rpg since theres no loot or inventory involved, and customization is strictly powers-based since you're going to get the upgrades for all your guns anyway (and those all have specific uses so you can't be a "shotgun x" 100% of the time really). The story is top notch and Mass Effect is a superb sci-fi universe overall For all you casuals, the graphics are amazing.… Expand
  94. zouozof
    Dec 25, 2010
    10
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. this game is a wonderful story but very very nice, seems to think of a movie, but the gameplay and each player makes his decisions based on the various options and this makes it a good game, the characters are done in a very realistic but have also been taken from real people makes it even more interesting a game, the graphics are one of the best I've ever seen, in addition to those scenes where the player can do little at the end as the ship going through the remains destroyed ships from the base of the collectors is a scene from the film, beautiful and well done with many details, the game is very imaginative… Expand
  95. KannedFarU
    Dec 17, 2010
    4
    This game obviously has the taint of a product acquired by and developed under EA. It seems undercut, uninspired and super linear and super short. Mass Effect 1 was really a great game and this was deprived of all the things that made ME1 fantastic:
    * Great story
    * Unlimited Ammo * Large selection of stuff to buy * Really cool ATV * Tons of side quests that kept the game interesting The    This game obviously has the taint of a product acquired by and developed under EA. It seems undercut, uninspired and super linear and super short. Mass Effect 1 was really a great game and this was deprived of all the things that made ME1 fantastic:
    * Great story
    * Unlimited Ammo
    * Large selection of stuff to buy
    * Really cool ATV
    * Tons of side quests that kept the game interesting

    The only things that really give merit to ME2 is:
    * Customizable equipment
    * Weapon Proficiency

    If you want to swim in ME1 nostalgia go ahead and buy this game, it seems to have the aesthetic theme. But you will be upset with the result. This game is almost as boring as Dragon Age: Origins, at least I get to move around and shoot things. Adds some interest...    … Expand
  96. AdenFlorian
    Dec 9, 2010
    10
    It's been a while since I've played a game as good as ME2. I've never felt so connected to the characters before, the combat seemed just right, might use very slight tweaking. Story was awesome, just the whole game rocked.
  97. KulakxRatings
    Nov 26, 2010
    8
    I found this game more enjoyable than the first one which surpises me. I felt that the story was weaker in mass effect 2, and that some of the parts of the game didnt realy add up. But the gameplay was nearly perfect and so was the acting and the design of the game. Dissapointed in the lack of weapons and armor but it is much more simple than spamming through countless amounts of uselessI found this game more enjoyable than the first one which surpises me. I felt that the story was weaker in mass effect 2, and that some of the parts of the game didnt realy add up. But the gameplay was nearly perfect and so was the acting and the design of the game. Dissapointed in the lack of weapons and armor but it is much more simple than spamming through countless amounts of useless stuff in the first game. I realy thought that they over done theirselves with most of the characters, and thought that my actions from the first game affecting many noticeable things in this game was realy cool. I know that mass effect 2 is bassicaly the final editing for the trilogy and the final game. The planetary exploration is just as boring infact almost more pointless than the first one. But your actions realy do matter making the anticipation for the final game the most exciting thing i have actualy felt for a game, seeing that the sequals actually do matter. Unlike all other games.… Expand
  98. soccer1105
    Nov 26, 2010
    9
    One of the best games I've ever played, right up there with Half Life 2 and Call of Duty 4. I don't generally like 3rd person shooters, but Bioware did a great job on it. Game play is very engrossing and story line is quite good (though not the best).
  99. zerohearne
    Nov 24, 2010
    10
    This is a must have game!!!! The best, buy it you won't regret it!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
    You get to build your own ship,assemble teams and get to choose your missions.
    Plus it has amazing graphics. no bugs, just a great game.
  100. mccoyjf
    Nov 21, 2010
    9
    A really excellent game. The story is very good, and the outcome of the game can vary dramatically depending on your actions, which I find to be a big plus. The characters are very interesting and fun to interact with. The connection with the previous game and promise of more to come in the sequel feel like a real plus, as opposed to just a marketing gimmick. There are a few very minorA really excellent game. The story is very good, and the outcome of the game can vary dramatically depending on your actions, which I find to be a big plus. The characters are very interesting and fun to interact with. The connection with the previous game and promise of more to come in the sequel feel like a real plus, as opposed to just a marketing gimmick. There are a few very minor things that bugged me and keep my rating at a 9 instead of 10, but I still think this game is well worth buying for anyone who enjoys RPGs at all.… Expand
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Awards & Rankings

1
#1 Best PC Game of 2010
3
#3 Most Discussed PC Game of 2010
4
#4 Most Shared PC Game of 2010

Critic Reviews

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Metascore
94

Universal acclaim - based on 55 Critic Reviews

Critic score distribution:
  1. Positive: 54 out of 55
  2. Mixed: 1 out of 55
  3. Negative: 0 out of 55
  1. Vandal
    96
    Mass Effect 2 resumes with pride the path opened by the first game. This sequel is a lesson of how things should be made.
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  2. AtomicGamer
    96
    Mass Effect 2 delivers a story that's deeper than what many novelists are capable of, and its action is better than what most Hollywood directors are creating nowadays. It's an addictive, engrossing experience that many gamers will replay over and over while they hold their breath waiting for the third game.
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  3. PC Games
    88
    A brilliant mix of shooter and role-playing, filled with great characters, excellent design, lots of action and clever dialogue. It's a shame though that Bioware did not improve the inventory and skill system of the first game, but actually reduced it even more. I really wished there were more customization options, more ways to develop and gear up my characters. But all these are merely small points of criticism, since there is so much to feel and experience in this game. Mass Effect 2 is a thrilling, emotional ride and ultimately every bit as good as its predecessor.
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