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. OlafH.
    Feb 4, 2010
    6
    I really wanted to like this game and I was keen about it, until i got through. I am sadly disappointed and I know this is a very subjective estimate. It may be a very well made game for the mediocre shooter crowd, but it's a letdown for rpg players. Good thing is it's still a rich and detailed world with interesting characters that embraces you and want to spend more time in I really wanted to like this game and I was keen about it, until i got through. I am sadly disappointed and I know this is a very subjective estimate. It may be a very well made game for the mediocre shooter crowd, but it's a letdown for rpg players. Good thing is it's still a rich and detailed world with interesting characters that embraces you and want to spend more time in it. I also still enjoy the conversation system thanks to the dialog. The soundtrack is still inviting and the graphics are solid peppered with some formidable compositions. What's told to be happened in the galaxy between the two titles is acceptable to me. Now to criticism. First of all the story: In ME1 I had the feeling I was closing in on Saren and to uncover his worked out plan and for whom he is working. Although Saren was the personalized evil, even he had shades of gray, an assistant, an army, the mysterious boss and the mentioned plan, the perfect antagonist for creating suspense. Mass Effect 2 lacks it all! The only great enemy is an army of stupid cannon fodder which, in the end you discover, doesn't even seem to have a great plan for galaxy domination. There are 3 more very similar mercenary gangs for variety. The second Mass Effect is all about recruiting the league of extraordinary gentlemen. That's the plot and there's barely more to it. Throwing a handful of badass people against an army directed by superbeings only figures in the mass effect universe. The end is just ridiculous! Beside the 3 or 4 missions that correlate to the threatened galaxy plot the whole game feels like a sidequest. Whilst in the first ME some of the secondary missions still offered some dialog and decisions, or somebody to save or to tackle to create not only mini tasks, but mini INTERACTIVE stories, ME2's sidequests mainly exist to shoot stuff, since everything already happened and you're just the cleanup crew. But thanks there is no MAKO involved! As for gameplay: The game got stripped off of most RPG elements except the dialog system. The skill bars were already a weak point in the first installment of the series. Instead of improving the inconvenient inventory of ME1 they simply got rid of it entirely. There's almost nothing to buy in the stores and since you can't loot any equipment there's not even an option to sell anything. Where you could customize your gear for every teammate in ME1 if I'm not mistaken, you have only universal upgrades and few armor parts only to be used by Shepard in ME2. I liked playing around with different setups for different situations in the first title. Now it's lock and load and you're ready to go. I don't know what to make of your allies yet, most seem to have quite similar equipment and abilities. So Bioware upgraded the shooter part of the game and got rid of the apparently unnecessary part of tense storyline and rpg gameplay in order to get the hype to the modest, but large number of shooter players. But thankfully they eliminated other flaws on their way. 6/10 for immersive gameworld, enjoyable dialog and the nice try.… Expand
  2. BrandonJ
    Feb 4, 2010
    10
    Possibly my favorite game of all time now (beating out the original Legend of Zelda, Final Fantasy VI, and maybe, just maybe, Morrowind). At first I approached the game cautiously. It seemed like the systems had been stripped down too much. It turned out I was wrong. By the time I was over halfway through the game (about 13 hours or so in), I had as many (or more) combat skills to worry Possibly my favorite game of all time now (beating out the original Legend of Zelda, Final Fantasy VI, and maybe, just maybe, Morrowind). At first I approached the game cautiously. It seemed like the systems had been stripped down too much. It turned out I was wrong. By the time I was over halfway through the game (about 13 hours or so in), I had as many (or more) combat skills to worry about as in the first game. My adept was flinging biotics left and write while using the sniper rifle to take out foes at range, a rocket launcher to take down mechs, and a sub-machine gun for anything that got close. The only thing I was really missing was the wide range of armor for the first game, but that provided the bonus of losing the cluttered inventory system of the first game. I know some people dog the mini-games, but the only one that became tedious toward the end of the game was the scanning/probe launching to harvest materials. My only complaint about the other two is that they probably give you too much time to solve them. The story itself was great. As anyone who reads a lot knows, there's nothing new under the sun. All stories are based on certain universal themes and that's the case here, as well. But no other game's story lets you make choices like the ones in ME2 without cushioning the impact. If you choose to leave innocents to die a horrible death, you'll hear their screams. But spending that time saving them could have other effects you might not be willing to accept. Of course, all of your decisions come down to the suicide run at the end of the game where no member of your team is guaranteed to make it out alive. Having played through this using a save from ME1, I can also safely say that many of your decisions in this game will also affect what happens in ME3. I actually had an ally that I made in ME1 contact my character to say they'd be there when the final conflict occurs (presumably in ME3). I can only imagine how the varied choices in ME2 could impact ME3 (instigating a war? putting dangerous technology in the wrong hands?). Finally we have a game that begins to show the promise of truly interactive storytelling.… Expand
  3. KaiF
    Feb 3, 2010
    10
    This is a gem which will catch and hold you for its entire 25 to 30 hour duration. It's definitely not a traditional roleplaying game; there are no stats to track other than how far you advance a limited set of abilities for your character, based on class. However, the dialog options and sheer number of choices you can make are second to none. You can play through the story in vastly This is a gem which will catch and hold you for its entire 25 to 30 hour duration. It's definitely not a traditional roleplaying game; there are no stats to track other than how far you advance a limited set of abilities for your character, based on class. However, the dialog options and sheer number of choices you can make are second to none. You can play through the story in vastly different ways, and each path is compelling and wonderful. A lot of people will say that this is more of a shooter and less of an RPG, but I maintain that at least in the character choices (and the fact that there are many, many roles to play) this is a true RPG to its core. You don't do this kind of decision making in Call of Duty.… Expand
  4. Michaelj
    Feb 3, 2010
    9
    Great game. just misses a 10 in my book. the minigames are fine, something like that will never be super excting to me. they found another extreme direction to take the inventory system in. I like it because you don't have to worry about the 150 item cap, but it leaves you feeling let down that there is only two of any type of gun(one of which is clearly better than the other). the Great game. just misses a 10 in my book. the minigames are fine, something like that will never be super excting to me. they found another extreme direction to take the inventory system in. I like it because you don't have to worry about the 150 item cap, but it leaves you feeling let down that there is only two of any type of gun(one of which is clearly better than the other). the armor customization is spot on though, too bad it was only on shepherd.. the story: the game is really about building your team, it's rewarding but the collectors story line is relativly short. I pray to god that this is the team you go into ME3 with because it felt like all I did was recruit and then the game ended. Please Bioware, don't make me do it again. Everything else about this game is a 10. Combat is more refined, sound and voice acting is great, the side missions were just as good. It does make you want ME3 to come out tomorrow.… Expand
  5. TerenceS
    Feb 3, 2010
    10
    This has been by far one of the best games I've played in a few years. I really got involved with the characters and liked every one of them. Granted, I don't think this game is for everyone, and probably isn't as universal as people are making it out to be. However, if you want a great action game with a decent plot and good voice over work, this is your baby.
  6. byF
    Feb 3, 2010
    7
    It's a good game despite a few flaws. It's epic, the story has a drive, locations are beautiful and characters are believable. I'm glad they've got rid of long elevator rides and generic cut-and-paste environments (including riding MAKO while searching planets). The new "scan-a-planet" system is pretty well-done. However, the flaws overweigh: It's a quite short It's a good game despite a few flaws. It's epic, the story has a drive, locations are beautiful and characters are believable. I'm glad they've got rid of long elevator rides and generic cut-and-paste environments (including riding MAKO while searching planets). The new "scan-a-planet" system is pretty well-done. However, the flaws overweigh: It's a quite short for an "RPG". I feel there is a lack of subsidiary quests. I'd like to see ten more at least. Some of them were really great with a quite some invention inside! Unfortunately, some of them were not. All about three kinds of merc gangs or three kinds of mechanoids. I thought the Milky Way in Mass Effect universe was a living, full of challenges and exciting opportunities - especially in Terminus systems! It's sad, but do not except anything like that... The personal terminal is not duly utilized. A lot of people write you, but almost no missions come through. And I think the developers tried to use as much persons from the first game as they could. I don't recall any new interesting (!) non-recruitable character except Illusive man which I'd like to met in ME3. I feel inconsistent about gameplay. It's more fluid than in the first one, but it's a way too much console-like. If I wanted to play console game, I'd buy a console. Nevertheless, if there were more complex content I would -maybe- put up with that.… Expand
  7. TibsC
    Feb 3, 2010
    10
    Mass effect introduces a new generation of RPG finally free from all the constraints of D&D from the eighties! No stats, no inventory but a awesome universe in wich YOU are the hero. All you actions have real consequences, THIS is role playing. The characters, the story, but above all, the universe are incredibly well written. With also a very good realization ME2 is one the most Mass effect introduces a new generation of RPG finally free from all the constraints of D&D from the eighties! No stats, no inventory but a awesome universe in wich YOU are the hero. All you actions have real consequences, THIS is role playing. The characters, the story, but above all, the universe are incredibly well written. With also a very good realization ME2 is one the most fascinating games ever created. I go back among the stars :) ... Thx Bioware!… Expand
  8. LukeK.
    Feb 3, 2010
    10
    This game is overall impressive leaving me in awe at almost every decision I made. people will temper with the fact that it doesn't show 100% rpg elements but the story feeds the addiction to want to play more pulling you in as commander Shepard i was far more than impressed by the story and way it reflects on the end I didn't find any need to repeat actions i recommend playing This game is overall impressive leaving me in awe at almost every decision I made. people will temper with the fact that it doesn't show 100% rpg elements but the story feeds the addiction to want to play more pulling you in as commander Shepard i was far more than impressed by the story and way it reflects on the end I didn't find any need to repeat actions i recommend playing on insanity to really dive you in to some intense game play making your actions reflect that much more on the outcome.… Expand
  9. TomiN
    Feb 3, 2010
    8
    Though I have disliked "rpg's" with AI-controlled helpers from the beginning, I consider it a necessary evil nowadays, so let's not go there. The biggest surprise to me was the phenomenal Character dialog. I found my self laughing out loud on some totally unexpected reactions and the likeability of the supporting cast. Much better than, for example, the Dragon Age: Origins. The Though I have disliked "rpg's" with AI-controlled helpers from the beginning, I consider it a necessary evil nowadays, so let's not go there. The biggest surprise to me was the phenomenal Character dialog. I found my self laughing out loud on some totally unexpected reactions and the likeability of the supporting cast. Much better than, for example, the Dragon Age: Origins. The plot was a letdown: although, there was more to it than in the first installation of the series, it didn't matter. The things you did on your "freetime" didn't really affect the plot or its outcome and the critical storymoment were far and wide. At some point (while mining an asteroid, a dreary job at best) I started to wonder, what I was expected to do, anyways? It's nice not to have a leash around your neck, but a little nudge to the right direction for now and then wouldn't hurt. Combat in the first Mass Effect was dodgy at best, but you could do it relying on your shields or taking cover behind something. It the number 2, shields have no meaning: they're just a healthbar and when they're gone, you are going to die unless there's time to regenerate, behind a chest-high-wall. This I hated a lot. Why they had to adopt the Gears of War coversystem? Ok, it might be a good thing for the consolegeneration, but it really doesn't work on PC. The battles are dull. You cannot control your surroundings when you are glued to the wall and sometimes, when you can see everything from your cover, popping-up and shooting limits your view to a wall and another wall. This was horrid, and I thought for a time to quit playing for this sad reason. The combat does have some improvements to the earlier installation. The hits have more impact and there is a slight chance of tactical thinking and "curving-the-bullet" with superpowers. Also, I miss the chaos of the first ME's inventory. Ok, there were a ****load of guns and gadgets, but you learned to pick out the best and scrap and sell the rest, plus upgrading and customizing weapons and armor was fun! In ME2, the whole inventory is forgotten, replaced by few guns with slightly different abilities, only Shepard can customize his armor and there's ammoclips for the weapons. What was wrong with the overheating of the first ME? It was rather original, and after playing through it first ME, the ME2 clips felt like a downgrade (which it was) to a OK combat and Sci-fi scenario. The new heavy weapons could have had this option, but there was nothing to be gained by implementing this idea to the normal weapons. The only reason I can see for the down-grade is that it's easier for a standard FPS-player to adapt to the reloading of guns than waiting them to cooldown after being overheated with impunity. The second reason must be that the progarammers wanted people to rely more on their superpowers in battle (which do look nice), for as I remember while playing ME1, I didn't do as much because good weapons. Hoping the third instalment of ME isn't "the X-Men in space". But in overall, I enjoyed the game. It wasn't a groundbreaking gamegod, which the hype suggested, but a nicely written moviegame, nerfeddown to fit consoles. It is an episodegame, so if you haven't played the first Mass Effect, you're going to miss out quite lot of puns and dialog for not really knowing, what happened "in the past".… Expand
  10. sfsf
    Feb 2, 2010
    1
    The most undeservedly over hyped game of the month award. It's also a strong contender for the 'most boring gameplay in years' award. Not that it's a surprise really, it's pretty much a regular thing now for the entire games industry media to suck up to the game developers in order to get that vital advertising contract/payola. Did I really just give this game a The most undeservedly over hyped game of the month award. It's also a strong contender for the 'most boring gameplay in years' award. Not that it's a surprise really, it's pretty much a regular thing now for the entire games industry media to suck up to the game developers in order to get that vital advertising contract/payola. Did I really just give this game a 1? I guess so. You see the reality is, there are good games out there. Even ones that get hyped up (Uncharted 2 for example). What I object to is the almost blanket '10/10 review' style anyone who likes a game feels the need to give it. Why should I care? Because of course it's up to us as players to counter the 'paid websites' and the 'shill reviewers' with the truth. The truth, as far as ME2 goes, is that it's one of the single most boring games in relation to it's 'stunning' reviews in some time. Other games (popular/hyped ones) that I've given very low scores to (Bioshock - terrible game play/all flash) (MW2 - no explanation needed) I did so because they plainly sucked on so many levels and yet were getting universal praise from professional critics. ME2 is similar except, it is actually far worse in many ways than those 2 games I've just mentioned. While it it certainly 'everything you normally require' in a game, it is also extremely 'space opera by the numbers'... dull, clinical, lacking soul, lacking fun game play. It's all about the ME universe (and it's fans), it's not about striving for gaming nirvana or exciting the player with immersion and empowering interaction. On a number of levels this game is extremely dated, from level design to texturing, from boring dumbed down RPG elements to mediocre shooting mechanics (Hey they TRIED to copy U2, Gears of War etc but failed badly.. here it just feels clunky). A review is just another opinion, so if hearing 'my' version of the truth offends you please down rate me and go back to enjoying your 'game'. I won't play along with the industry hype machine when a game this 'massive' and well reviewed is a bona-fide snooze fest to play. The problem is all the cut scenes, while well intended, are just lacking in emotion so anyone with half a brain ends up bored of them, thinking 'yes yes we've been told this particular cliched story a hundred times before in both games and movies now please let me play'... and then when you do play you find an extremely dated linear style corridor shooter. Seriously there are B-grade FPS games from 2002 that feel more fun to play than this. The mini games (hacking/scanning etc) are beyond tedious... did these developers not read about how mind numbing that kind of stuff is when looking at reviews of other games that contained them? It's 2010 and this over hyped thing is using mini game cliches still? Overall the game lacks a certain focus, and a heart. It's dull, it's not that it does anything extremely 'wrong' it's just a very very 'safe' game for a very average audience. The fact it's action portion feels like a poor man's Gears/Uncharted2 only serves to highlight that my time is better spent playing other games. I'm certain a massive amount of people who lap this stuff up only do so because of the 10/10 ratings, then hate to admit to themselves it's not actually any fun. The feeling I got from playing this game is it's a cold, by the numbers, play it safe game that doesn't have a true identity. It's neither good RPG nor good action shooter, in fact it's a really bad one of either of those. Mixing 2 bad attempts at different genres will not cancel out the badness... in my opinion it just amplifies it. If you want a TPS that rocks and has tight gameplay then look elsewhere, if you want an RPG that immerses you and excites you, look elsewhere, if you want an epic space story that feels involving and dramatic (and not overdone) look elsewhere, if you want great level design and beautiful art direction.... look elsewhere. If you want to have fun, for £40+ do yourself a favour and LOOK ELSEWHERE.… Expand
  11. Goekhan
    Feb 2, 2010
    3
    Mass Effect 1 was a challenge. And the results are an unique game. But Mass Effect 2 scraps and gets rid of many things that made Mass Effect 1 unique. If ME2 was the first game, not a sequel I mean, I'd be giving it a 10, but seeing how they "destroyed" the game, for sake of graphics, atmosphere, and sound effects, only deserves a 3.
  12. TorV
    Feb 2, 2010
    10
    tl:dr, extremely amazing game with a few very minor issues that don't subtract at all from the expereince. 98/100 I approached this title with slight fear. Usually when you have too high expectations to something, you're disappointed. Fortunately, this isn't the case here, Mass Effect 2 took my pretty unreasonable expectations, and exceeded them. This game is one of the tl:dr, extremely amazing game with a few very minor issues that don't subtract at all from the expereince. 98/100 I approached this title with slight fear. Usually when you have too high expectations to something, you're disappointed. Fortunately, this isn't the case here, Mass Effect 2 took my pretty unreasonable expectations, and exceeded them. This game is one of the best games I have ever played. Bioware has done a lot to make this game better than the previous, in fact I can't disagree with a single change they've made to the game. The graphics are better than ever, crisp and clear, though it's still a shame that the engine doesn't support high anti-aliasing. That's a very minor drawback, however, as the graphics truly are the best I've seen in a game since Crysis. The sluggish combat from the first game has been totally eradicated, replaced with a much more fast and streamlined version. The clunky inventory and upgrade system has been abolished too, replaced with an overall better system with no inventory at all, though a few more weapons to pick from would have been nice. The resource gathering for upgrades part has been deepened a bit, now you scan planets for materials with your cursor. It's actually a really cozy mini-game, but it can quickly get lengthy. Interestingly, you can play the entire game without even encountering the resource mini-game (my first playthrough) and still get through to the other side, albeit a bit battered. The two other hacking mini-games are really fun and quick to play, so no issues at all there. Storywise the game is excellent. I won't spoil anything, but The Illusive Man is a highly interesting piece of work, and your cooperation with the notorious organization Cerberus presents a few intriguing moral dilemmas. Speaking of moral dilemmas, this game is riddled with them all over. It's really a very gray game, and there is never a "right" choice. Overall however, the characters, your crew, are the focus of this game. They're developed brilliantly and all of them have a certain depth to them, some more than other, though. You really grow to like them, which you truly find out during the final mission. Some of their personal missions have a few real tear-jerker moments too. Normally they'd seem a bit fake at best, but the writing is so well done and the voiceacting so amazing that it's really believable, which is really rare in a game. It would really be a shame for Bioware to throw the surviving crew away for replacements in the final installment of the series. Of course, some things must be bad about this game. Other than what you may have extrapolated from the wall of text above, there are a few slight graphical issues with tearing around the eyes and the mouth corners at a few points during the game. Gameplay-wise I have nothing derogatory to add. Mass Effect 2 is all the way through a polished and exhilarating experience. I've seen complaints that it's not a true rpg, but to say that you have to ask yourself, what is an RPG game? Let me clarify that RPG tag that gets thrown around so much nowadays. Role Playing Game. It's all about immersiveness and choices. For example, Half Life 2 is almost a role-playing game. You just need choices and dialogue and you're there. Some people however seem to be so far stuck up their own a**holes that they think the definition of an RPG is "DnD ruleset". Wake up, and listen to the word you're saying. For extra clarification, I will say it one more time. RPG = Role Playing Game Is Mass Effect 2 this? Hell yeah. Be sure to buy this wonder while you can. It's a gaming experience that rarely comes around.… Expand
  13. CommanderShepard
    Feb 2, 2010
    7
    Basically, a complete upgrade from it's predecessor. While it still has its flaws, the positive sides of this gem clearly dominates the bad ones. However, the game is not as perfect as the critics claim it to be. Some of the reviews are clearly way too generous and doesn't take any notice whatsoever of the bigger disappointments when leaving their ratings here. An extremely Basically, a complete upgrade from it's predecessor. While it still has its flaws, the positive sides of this gem clearly dominates the bad ones. However, the game is not as perfect as the critics claim it to be. Some of the reviews are clearly way too generous and doesn't take any notice whatsoever of the bigger disappointments when leaving their ratings here. An extremely well-made game, but not completely on par with games like the Orange Box (every one of them) or Zelda: OOT. Still, it is far beyond worth your money!… Expand
  14. Tac-2
    Feb 1, 2010
    8
    An ok game, but still not as good as the first one. I had no quarrels with the FPS/RPG mix or the gamplay in general, but where this game lacks is in coherent stroytelling. There are individual segments that are good (such as NPC loyalty quests), but they don't really knit together at any point, leaving a very fragmented experience. That said, despite those few good quests with the An ok game, but still not as good as the first one. I had no quarrels with the FPS/RPG mix or the gamplay in general, but where this game lacks is in coherent stroytelling. There are individual segments that are good (such as NPC loyalty quests), but they don't really knit together at any point, leaving a very fragmented experience. That said, despite those few good quests with the NPCs, the cast you can recruit this time left me slightly disappointed.… Expand
  15. AndyG
    Feb 1, 2010
    8
    Not a bad game, but i don't want to play it again. Core shooting game-play get a bit repetitive. The level design is a little uninspiring. RPG elements...hmm you level up but there are no visible stats. Game was not designed for a pc, the menus don't take advantage of the mouse. You can't double click on anything. Mini games were bad, and really take you out of the game. In Not a bad game, but i don't want to play it again. Core shooting game-play get a bit repetitive. The level design is a little uninspiring. RPG elements...hmm you level up but there are no visible stats. Game was not designed for a pc, the menus don't take advantage of the mouse. You can't double click on anything. Mini games were bad, and really take you out of the game. In fallout 3 you had the lock picking that wasn't to bad... The problem with the mini games is you must play them in order to upgrade. The whole time i'm scanning the planets looking for minerals i keep thinking why can't my annoying ship secretary do this. Maybe a flying mini game or space stock market mini game would have been more fun. The other problem is i just play dragon age for PC and loved it, so i was hoping for a similar experience, however this is an action-shooter-adventure. I liked the ending, trying to use plot devices to kill off the more annoying characters, plus i also like the final boss and most of the cutsceens were fun. Thought the music was pretty good. About 19 hours of game play. A lot of Polish, nice graphics.… Expand
  16. BrettP
    Feb 1, 2010
    10
    It's amazing. I have it for both 360 and PC and plan to play through the game at least twice (one for each system) since I played a Renegade character for PC and a Paragon character on 360. I'm sure this will be most folks' GOTY for 2010!
  17. AndrewS
    Feb 1, 2010
    10
    I've played all of bioware's games since they came out and I have to say Mass Effect 2 is not only my favorite bioware product, it's my favorite game of all time. While there are a few issues with the PC version, it's not enough to take away from the experience. This game submerses you into the story, when you aren't play it, you want to be. This game has a movie I've played all of bioware's games since they came out and I have to say Mass Effect 2 is not only my favorite bioware product, it's my favorite game of all time. While there are a few issues with the PC version, it's not enough to take away from the experience. This game submerses you into the story, when you aren't play it, you want to be. This game has a movie like effect on you, yet still is a great RPG/Shooter. Those who are hardcore RPGERs or Shooters won't like it. Those who value games for the experience at hand this is IT. I honestly get no joy from any of the other games I play now. Great characters, especially Thane. If you take it for what it is it's 10/10. If you're looking for a by the book RPG, look elsewhere.… Expand
  18. NoelK
    Feb 1, 2010
    10
    In all seriousness, this is the best, most amazing, and most epic game I've ever played and/or seen in my entire life. Even though it is only a game, it is better than any movie I've ever seen, any show I've ever watched, and any book I've ever read.
  19. Rilke
    Feb 1, 2010
    7
    Mass Effect 2 deserves quite a bit of the acclaim it
  20. polysix
    Feb 1, 2010
    0
    Ok it's not a ZERO, that is ridiculous. However, I for one am SICK of seeing every 'massive name game' getting 10/10 from the sheep players and the shilling reviewers. This has happened to almost all the big name games recently (ok.. for years) and I'll keep on giving zero to games that are getting 10s when they are worth '8' at best... on a good day, if you Ok it's not a ZERO, that is ridiculous. However, I for one am SICK of seeing every 'massive name game' getting 10/10 from the sheep players and the shilling reviewers. This has happened to almost all the big name games recently (ok.. for years) and I'll keep on giving zero to games that are getting 10s when they are worth '8' at best... on a good day, if you squint really hard. Now to the game. For all the hype and praise I was badly let down. I almost fell asleep during the first few hours play. The initial opening scene was nicely done, very good (if you want 'interactive movies' rather than games), it seemed to go downhill after that. When you compare this to the quality in for ex Uncharted 2, it shows so much lack of flair, lack of care, lack of finishing touches. The textures throughout the levels were bland, reminding me of 'poor man's FPS' from the past such as Chaser and all that crud from the early 2000s. Seriously the design is poor, lacking originality, lacking artistic direction and relying on the age old 'generic space theme'. Design was boxy, levels (so far) linear and poorly paced. It was like bioware tried to hybrid this game a bit too much and have ended up removing anything that was cool about it (the RPG depth) and making, frankly, a 2nd rate Third person shooter with clunky controls, poor interface and worst of all EXTREMELY BORING GAMEPLAY. If you play Gears of War or Uncharted 2... or even Resident Evil 4 on the GC.. THAT is how you do '3rd person' properly. This game and it's predecessor were obviously made by a team who don't truly understand how to make a tight addictive 'action' game, and instead rely on the so called 'depth' and vision of the story and concept. It doesn't wash with me. I honestly can't recall a time in recent years I've been this BORED while playing such a 'massive' game. I'm trading mine in asap while the price is still good (If I can) if not looks like I really should stop taking any review site seriously. Ask yourself, while playing this, are you genuinely feeling 'fun'? are you feeling that there is more to pull you through the game than some lame (though nicely scripted and pretty looking) cut scene? I certainly did not relish getting back to the so called 'action' (wooh more shooting with an underpowered and clunky set of weapons) I guess most of all I was astonished at the number of cliches this game spews over the player while being heralded as the second coming of gaming nirvana. I lost all connection with the game because of it's clinical delivery, it's 'by the numbers' action gameplay, and it's robotic characters. The female is annoying, often repeating her lines once too often during battle (it's 2010 people, I thought that kind of thing had been fixed in games these days?). Of course lots and lots of people are still going to buy this, just like the brainless sheep (even worse) who made Modern Warfare 2 the 'beacon' of a once proud industry. Nothing I say will damage Bioware's sales, or stop you from buying it if you are hyped up for it. For me however, it all felt like it was trying too hard to be 'something' it wasn't, with no clear, punchy definition of it's own. It's borrowed ideas and innovations from other games and mixed it up into something that lacks soul or reason to play (other than because the reviews said you should). Ahh just another game in a long line of stupidly overhyped AAA titles that are keeping the industry rich through collusion and payola with review sites. Next up? I guess we'll have Bioshock 2 being 'the greatest thing ever' according to the mags/sites... Just like they did with the first game (which was also overhyped and had terrible gameplay, as bad as I thought it's gameplay was it was actually ever so slightly more fun than ME2's gameplay so that's how bad ME2 is!). There are good 'hyped' games out there, Uncharted 2 is one of them, not perfect but it's solid, addictive and feels compelling. It's art direction and animation are worlds beyond the basic '1999 style' generic corridor shooter we see here. I know i'm picky, I can't help it... I can't help noticing things in ME2 like the lazy texturing (check out the ramps up to the outside buildings in the first levels, many have misaligned textures with no 'trimming' just stopping dead at the end of the mesh - even if it means the texture is cut in half)... that kind of thing was frowned upon way back in user created maps for games like unreal etc so why are pro devs getting away with this lazy 'mapping' and getting 10/10 for graphics/art? Ok a sum up of the bad points ( I won't list the good stuff as there's thousands of 10/10 reviews doing that if you care). .Linear to the point of boredom (Just 'working your way though cos you bought it not cos you are having a blast') .Generic level design .Bad texturing (sky/clouds even feature stretched and flat 'clouds' again say hello to 1999!) .Tiny/Bad UI - blocky and unintuitive .Abrupt level ending. No finesse, just 'map after map' with some cut scenes tacked on. Again check Uncharted2 for one example of how to do this right with 'flair' .Boring and unsympathetic characters. The complete opposite of the great work done in games like Half Life 2 (and again even U2). .Shine on everything, they like them shaders at bioware and they are using them on everything - some may think that makes for 'great graphics' but it doesn't. It looks stupid, it's still a boxy empty lifeless environment that is no pleasure to be in .Clinical to the point of feeling like numb .Ill defined gameplay - is it one thing or the other? neither, it's a mess in terms of gameplay. .Story? Hmm, probably it's strongest side but again it's nothing special, been done to death, they just changed the name of the 'baddies' ... yawn .Overhyped. When a game is overhyped such as this, it better be damned near perfect. Even with flaws it's ok but this is so lacklustre in so many areas it's a crime against videogaming to be calling this 'the best game of the year' so early. I for one hope we'll get more games on all formats this year that are at least 10x better than this. btw: IMO and YMMV. Thanks. If forced to play this or ME1.. go for ME1, it was flawed but at least it had some 'character and soul' (still not as much as other games though).… Expand
  21. ChrisE
    Feb 1, 2010
    10
    An utterly amazing experience. The incredible opening, the experience of meeting your first new crew member, the combat, the 'blade runner' esque settings. Almost a work of gaming art. It's such a shame there are idiots on here giving this game a zero score. Idiots. I mean, seriously. Really zero??
  22. MakiM
    Feb 1, 2010
    9
    This is at least as good as the original Mass Effect. A great deal of things has been improved, such as more unique missions (in the original game, uncharted planets usually had the same base setup with randomly generated environments which were hard to navigate). The inventory system has been simplified, and this is both good and bad. It's more consistent now and much easier to This is at least as good as the original Mass Effect. A great deal of things has been improved, such as more unique missions (in the original game, uncharted planets usually had the same base setup with randomly generated environments which were hard to navigate). The inventory system has been simplified, and this is both good and bad. It's more consistent now and much easier to manage, however, there is a lack of options as there are not many weapon selections in the game. Though this is minor compared to the greater state of things in this game, such as its magnificent storyline. The game length is longer, the team is more unique and every character is good in their own way, allowing for unique team combination. The visuals have also improved. The animations, sound/music, and art have been kept up to the high standard that we expect. The most noticeable feature is facial expressions. Now characters can realistically show anger or sadness (even tears can be seen on a weeping character). Cut-scenes are more cinematically epic, showing better viewing angles and shots. In the first Mass Effect, the experience felt great most in the beginning, then went down in the middle but went up again in the end. In Mass Effect 2, every single moment of the game feels epic, with the beginning and endings even better. I highly recommend this game. This is just the kind of game that is lacking in the gaming industry, which we need more of.… Expand
  23. D.S.
    Feb 1, 2010
    7
    I don't feel the need to repeat what has said by millions of gamers and reviewers, so I'll just cut to the chase, which explains why I gave this game an 7 rather than the 10 that I gave ME1. As I have played 100% PC and only PC games in all my life, I am able to smell "CONSOLE ORIENTED GAME" from ten miles away. This game is so rank of CONSOLE that PC gamers will need to plug I don't feel the need to repeat what has said by millions of gamers and reviewers, so I'll just cut to the chase, which explains why I gave this game an 7 rather than the 10 that I gave ME1. As I have played 100% PC and only PC games in all my life, I am able to smell "CONSOLE ORIENTED GAME" from ten miles away. This game is so rank of CONSOLE that PC gamers will need to plug their noses with cement to avoid the that vile substance of CONSOLE from creeping up their nose and leading to the explosion in to tiny gooey bits of one's poor head. EVERYTHING about this game has console caked all over it like a raging infestation, from the uber-clunkazoid controls and the lack of any engaging or all-too-useful RPG elements, to the lack of any challenge whatsoever (on any difficulty). In short, if youre looking for an RPG with interesting, fluid gameplay and a satisfying array of RPG elements, you might want to avoid. Otherwise, if you're looking for a general run-of the mill shooter with a nice blockbuster story, pick it up, you wont be disappointed.… Expand
  24. EidicM
    Feb 1, 2010
    10
    Initially, I was surprised at the lack of rpg elements from this game (after playing Fallout 3 for a while,) however this game in a whole other genre. Mass Effect 2 falls into a new breed of games descending from the action and rpg genre, named the action-rpg. There are many decisions you must make in the game that will have consequences in the future and even in future games. Choice made Initially, I was surprised at the lack of rpg elements from this game (after playing Fallout 3 for a while,) however this game in a whole other genre. Mass Effect 2 falls into a new breed of games descending from the action and rpg genre, named the action-rpg. There are many decisions you must make in the game that will have consequences in the future and even in future games. Choice made in the first Mass Effect also carry out into this game very effectively. The graphics are a visual achievement and some of the best I have seen in a video game. I have noticed very few glitches that will be patched (sometimes it is possible to fall out the map.) The initial dlc is also great and free. Environments are even more immersive than the first game, and its nice to see old familiar areas return. Voice acting is nothing short of specular. There are many areas to explore, and so far I have played over 60 hours and have not even finished the game, and do not see the end. Also, after playing the pc version extensively, I have found nothing that even says this is a console port (although I have yet to see the 360 version.) What some people don't understand is this is not a really a rpg. It's something entirely new. Other game developers should take note, as this is how games should be made.… Expand
  25. PeteN
    Feb 1, 2010
    10
    The more I play the game, the better I feel the game is. Can't stop thinking about playing it when I'm at work. I wish there are more weapons and armor in the game but that is a minor complaint.
  26. ThomasS.
    Feb 1, 2010
    9
    This game is so good that you almost forget that they removed a lot of the traditional RPG stuff. Seems like they spend more time making the side quest better than adding loads of items for customizing. If it have to be this way i prefer ME2 as the side quests of ME1 and endless driving around the same boring planets got old very fast. A few glitches but nothing serious. More customizing This game is so good that you almost forget that they removed a lot of the traditional RPG stuff. Seems like they spend more time making the side quest better than adding loads of items for customizing. If it have to be this way i prefer ME2 as the side quests of ME1 and endless driving around the same boring planets got old very fast. A few glitches but nothing serious. More customizing and this would have been a 10.… Expand
  27. SteveB.
    Feb 1, 2010
    8
    This game is no longer a RPG it's a glorified shooter. Not saying the game is terrible but not even close to what Mass Effect 1 was all about. Exploring is very limited option as well as building up you're character and weapons. Improved combat and graphics are the only thing that saved this game. I gave this game a 8 because of what it lacks as a RPG.
  28. LanceW.
    Feb 1, 2010
    0
    Dull, dull, dull. This is the same old boring Bioware pap, with one dimensional characters, and a completely unimaginative story. For anyone who's ever read a book (even one book) this game is fairly insulting and anti-intellectual. You'll yawn, and you might even cry at how dire it is. I'm just glad I played this on a friend's computer and didn't buy it. Avoid. Dull, dull, dull. This is the same old boring Bioware pap, with one dimensional characters, and a completely unimaginative story. For anyone who's ever read a book (even one book) this game is fairly insulting and anti-intellectual. You'll yawn, and you might even cry at how dire it is. I'm just glad I played this on a friend's computer and didn't buy it. Avoid. One day, Bioware might get a stable of half-decent writers, today isn't that day.… Expand
  29. LukasA
    Feb 1, 2010
    9
    I have never played a game better then this, epic storyline, despite some graphic issues, and a few bugs, its just a perfect game in almost any way, well thought through, and an awesome conversation system, like the last one. Giving it a 9 because of those bugs. Haven't completed half the game yet, but of course im not sure, but so far, its epic.
  30. JohnR.
    Feb 1, 2010
    8
    I really like this game. The graphics and frame rates are great on my high end PC. My only gripe is with not being given an alternative choice of control. Bioware refuse to support the wireless 360 controller for PC. I hate it when companies refuse to listen to their customers.
  31. EssayanF.
    Feb 1, 2010
    8
    All i can say, is that i'm impressed. I feared a feeling of "dejà vu", but mass effect 2 is much more than a simple sequel. The many good points i noticed : Just after the public release, this game looks far more polished than the first one was in its last version. There are a lot more fighting, but it is really exciting to go threw them. They're more dynamic than in ME1. All i can say, is that i'm impressed. I feared a feeling of "dejà vu", but mass effect 2 is much more than a simple sequel. The many good points i noticed : Just after the public release, this game looks far more polished than the first one was in its last version. There are a lot more fighting, but it is really exciting to go threw them. They're more dynamic than in ME1. You can't save the game anytime you want. You'll have to go threw an entire fight to be able to save. ( And when you're playing in insanity difficulty, it is really making a difference... ) Scanning sequences to get resources are a bit boring, but it's nothing compared to the exploration with the MAKO ... I can't say how gratefull i am about the idea of not driving this thing again... Bye bye, infamous inventory system, now you only carry the necessary and don't have to turn 500 old pieces of equipement into omnigel... ( i exagerate a bit ) You're no longer restrained to the current appearence of your armor, each part can be replaced with another (if you found some), and you can customize the colour. If you regret some choices you've done about the attribution of your ability points, you will be able to reset them and choose again. That's a lot of improvements... And there are more and more. It has been well thinked. Some people will say that the RPG aspect was minimized to let the action take a major place. It isn't true. What is true, is that there are certainly a lot more combat, but there are also many quests and subquests. Moreover, the dialogs remain rich and are implementing new features such as the "instant actions".(you'll need to play to see it) ME1 lacked the diversity that ME2 is offering and wasn't more an RPG than its sequel. It was just more boring and repetitive. So don't worry, the RPG side is still there, and proud to claim it. Importing a character from ME1 really got some interest. And i'm not talking about bonuses you get by doing so. Many details about what you've done in ME1 will be used in ME2, and will affect the story. I really appreciated that. Graphicaly, this game is a nice looking one and you won't need the last GPU to run it with decent settings. The audio is better than in ME1, and i'm talking about the weapons, the environmental sounds, the music... The voice acting is as good as in the first. The level design ? I read that someone said it was pathetic. Hell no... The areas are full of details, and the design is far more better than in ME1. You won't visit 10 times the same place in 10 different planets as you did in ME1. The bad aspects, because there is no perfect game : - You can't crouch anymore in ME2 while NPC are able to do it... Why ????... it doesn't make any sense to me... Every game with action sequence are allowing the character to crouch... How frustrating... - There are still some bugs that are quite annoying..like : My character got stucked many times in some area and in the middle of a fight... Some bugs with voices in the dialogs... - The hiding system during fighting sequence and the control of the character could be better... It looks like bioware won't get a headache when importing stuff from console. It's a great game, really. But it's tainted by some stuff like that.... A shame really... Let's hope they do something.… Expand
  32. DanielH.
    Jan 31, 2010
    9
    This game is overall very good, it has an intriguing storyline, a wonderful atmosphere and deep, interesting characters. I found that many of the loyalty mission had an emotional connection, especially Tali'Zorah's, and for players to feel an emotional bond, a deep relationship to a game character is an achievement not easily earned by the game developers. The only thing I found This game is overall very good, it has an intriguing storyline, a wonderful atmosphere and deep, interesting characters. I found that many of the loyalty mission had an emotional connection, especially Tali'Zorah's, and for players to feel an emotional bond, a deep relationship to a game character is an achievement not easily earned by the game developers. The only thing I found a bit disappointing was the few choices for same-sex romances. I personally had wanted for a long time to pursue a romance with Tali with my female Shepard, but I found myself required to start over with a male Shepard in order to make that happen.… Expand
  33. ScottG
    Jan 31, 2010
    7
    It's a decent game, but not really a roleplaying game. Most of the traditional elements of RPGs, like exploration, character development, and loot have been "streamlined" out of the game. What's left is a very pretty third-person shooter with a good story. In sum, great for shooter fans, but RPG fans might want to think twice.
  34. RickJ.
    Jan 31, 2010
    8
    All in all this is an impressive game which almost belongs to the best of its genre - well, almost. The story is fine but even according to genre rules less convincing than the story of mass effect 1. The difference between the rich story and its many aspects one the one hand and the repetitive game play on the other hand is a bit disappointing. Basically you have a shooter with some rpg All in all this is an impressive game which almost belongs to the best of its genre - well, almost. The story is fine but even according to genre rules less convincing than the story of mass effect 1. The difference between the rich story and its many aspects one the one hand and the repetitive game play on the other hand is a bit disappointing. Basically you have a shooter with some rpg elements added and some minigames thrown in. The shooter can't hold up to the top shooters of the last years, because most of them have developed a good rhythm adding complexity and variety to the basic setup. The rpg elements (ways to improve the character, access to better weapons, new ways to fight) have been dumbed down in comparison to mass effect 1 which wasn't so complex to begin with. The mini games to hack something are as usual nice in the beginning and getting boring really fast. The minigame around the scanning of the planets makes doing your taxes look like fun and aims straight for the worst mini game ever. The way the story is told is very old fashioned: cut scenes, conversations and some sound messages. On the good side: it makes it easy to make a good movie out of this game. On the bad side: if you cut out the interactive parts of the game you don't lose a lot of the story. The moral decisions you have to make are the one exception here. Well, no need to hold this against Bioware: a good integration of story telling and game play is the holy grail of the industry. No one yet has found a convincing way to combine the demands of story telling, first of all the need to control the rhythm of events, with the demands of game play, first of all to allow the players to decide themselves. And as in Dragon Age: Origin it works, you are emotionally involved beyond the adrenaline kick of the shooter sequence. The characters belong to the best we have seen in games which is due to the cinematic rendering of the cut scenes, the (mostly) excellent voice acting, and the depth added by the loyality quests which often center around core elements of their life stories. The conversations with them on board of the ship Normandy add more facets and make them round. It is a bit of a pity that most of the more interesting characters, for example Jack, Grunt or Zaeed are mentally - or in the case of Grunt: racially - disturbed killers without a lot of room for subtlety in their psychological profile. But even without someone like Ashley, the all American girl with her racist tendencies from the first part (I killed her, so I didn't see her in ME 2), there are some intriguing characters like Mordin, the scientist and 'mass murder'. The mysterious illusive man, always smoking, makes a good impression when you meet him first, and looks stereotypical and silly when you meet him later on. Characters play such a big role because the story arc is rather thin this time and in this aspect you do feel that you are in the middle section of a larger story, because you mainly build up your team. Game graphics have improved in comparison to ME 1 - which doesn't mean a lot - but still can't be compared to the excellent visuals often to be found nowadays (think Call of Duty 4 or Crysis). A notably exception is the rendering of faces, especially in cut scenes. The design and architecture of the worlds provide your standard variety, nothing more nothing less: from the run down post war world of Grunt to the high tech merchant world of Illion. I never had the impression that it intensifies my insight into the characters and the chain of events like it did for example in Bioshock. The fighting sceneries mainly consist of long corridors with lots of cover and are often as boring as it sounds. So without doubt this is a good game and in its better moments even a very good one. Coming from a pc gaming background the affinity to console game play, especially the clumsiness of the controls and the cloddish interface geared towards console players, is less than attractive but probably something we have to live with in future. It is a worthy successor to the much acclaimed Mass Effect 1 and improving on it in some aspects, especially the graphics, but the reduction of the role playing elements and the general tendency to win a mass market by cutting off anything which could pose a challenge is not always convincing. Catering for a mass market is fine but why then use the old fashioned grammar of games. Now you have an uneasy mixture like the boss fight at the end but pointing out in large letters where the weakness of the boss is. Bioware is not known for innovation but for good games - mass effect 2 confirms that.… Expand
  35. JohnN
    Jan 30, 2010
    10
    The story really draws u in, the characters are awesome, Shepard is kick***, the missions are fun, graphics are great, cinematics are very well-done, new cerberus network for downloadable content is another plus, bringing the saved game from ME 1 is a great idea that blended fantastic into ME2's storyline, battles are much smoother, classes are streamlined(which is a good thing) and The story really draws u in, the characters are awesome, Shepard is kick***, the missions are fun, graphics are great, cinematics are very well-done, new cerberus network for downloadable content is another plus, bringing the saved game from ME 1 is a great idea that blended fantastic into ME2's storyline, battles are much smoother, classes are streamlined(which is a good thing) and easier to manage. I can not wait to see what bioware does for ME3!… Expand
  36. SeanH.
    Jan 30, 2010
    8
    First impressions as perhaps the most impressive and immersive game for single-player-philes like me to come out in years. The fight sequences and friendly A.i are much improved, however there were some things missing. For example, like being able to travel with more free form around the citadel, and 3 hrs into the game and I still haven't been able to drive anything! All in all, First impressions as perhaps the most impressive and immersive game for single-player-philes like me to come out in years. The fight sequences and friendly A.i are much improved, however there were some things missing. For example, like being able to travel with more free form around the citadel, and 3 hrs into the game and I still haven't been able to drive anything! All in all, I'm looking forward to finishing this game. It might not be better then ME1, but its sure as hell better than anything else out there for singleplayers… Expand
  37. Cygnus
    Jan 30, 2010
    9
    The only reason I have given this a 9 is because I found the game too short but overall a complete improvement from the first Mass Effect. Coming off of buying Modern Warfare 2 and seeing just how forsaken a PC gamer can be to developers i was skeptical to ME2. Bioware seems to be the only developer i trust now as a PC gamer to equally make both 360 and PC gamers satisfied in there The only reason I have given this a 9 is because I found the game too short but overall a complete improvement from the first Mass Effect. Coming off of buying Modern Warfare 2 and seeing just how forsaken a PC gamer can be to developers i was skeptical to ME2. Bioware seems to be the only developer i trust now as a PC gamer to equally make both 360 and PC gamers satisfied in there experience. 9/10… Expand
  38. Alex
    Jan 30, 2010
    5
    A good game, but nowhere near the same caliber ME1 was. They stripped away almost all RPG elements so it's pretty much a straight up shooter with a good story. No inventory or loot, lack of sidequests, no freedom, no exploration, very linear, barely any use for money, dumbed down leveling system, lack of skills, lack of variation in armor/weapons
  39. DonC.
    Jan 30, 2010
    7
    It's a good game that i can't get into. maybe it's me. or maybe it's the clunky combat system. controls and movement are not as refined as uncharted 2. maybe it's the graphics. yeah, excellent facial models but a lot of jaggies and bland textures everywhere else (even on 16x AA). or maybe it's the mini-game, good thing they are optional, and the sometimesIt's a good game that i can't get into. maybe it's me. or maybe it's the clunky combat system. controls and movement are not as refined as uncharted 2. maybe it's the graphics. yeah, excellent facial models but a lot of jaggies and bland textures everywhere else (even on 16x AA). or maybe it's the mini-game, good thing they are optional, and the sometimes funny AI (both friendly and enemy). the best feature of ME2 are story, voice-acting, and atmosphere. all in all, no way this game is a 10 or maybe it's just me.… Expand
  40. K.Hannes
    Jan 30, 2010
    10
    Best Sci-Fi Action RPG with best cinematics, best voice acting, incredible Story, bombastic soundtrack and a Main Charactar everyone can identify with. A+, its definitely worth its money (no Bugs encountered through the entire game (15-16 hours with half of the optional Quests) Wonderfull work BioWare. Bioshock/Fallout3 - could never reach this perfectness and deepness and epicness of ME2 Best Sci-Fi Action RPG with best cinematics, best voice acting, incredible Story, bombastic soundtrack and a Main Charactar everyone can identify with. A+, its definitely worth its money (no Bugs encountered through the entire game (15-16 hours with half of the optional Quests) Wonderfull work BioWare. Bioshock/Fallout3 - could never reach this perfectness and deepness and epicness of ME2 story, atmosphere or even the Style and Graphics.… Expand
  41. TomL.
    Jan 30, 2010
    8
    I really wasn't sure whether to give this game an 8 or a 9, in the end I settled for an 8 because although the game works really well and I did enjoy probably en-par with the first (which I gave a 10 rating), there are just a number of issues that I just cant really look past and a number of other annoying elements that just prevent it from living up to imass effect 1 in eyes. first I really wasn't sure whether to give this game an 8 or a 9, in the end I settled for an 8 because although the game works really well and I did enjoy probably en-par with the first (which I gave a 10 rating), there are just a number of issues that I just cant really look past and a number of other annoying elements that just prevent it from living up to imass effect 1 in eyes. first on the list of my bigger issues with the game is customisation, yes I can make shepherd look like I would want him to look but what about my squad, what about my weapons, I found myself just using exactly the same weapon combo throughout most of the game and never even bothered changing my squads weapons because there just wern't the options to do it in a meaningful way. Another problem was that the game just didnt seem to flow as well as the first, bioware said that they wanted to make you always know where you were in the game but I personally don't think of more loading screens as the answer to this, the first one the lifts were annoying but they always kept YOU in the game, you could walk over ot the normandy and go inside on your own free will rather than have to rely on shuttles to always take you there. Now to move onto the small annoyances, firstly is this ammo system, didn't like it, cant say anything more other than that, on harder difficulties there just isn't enough ammo and no-matter how bioware try ot explain it in the backstory it just feels like technology has moved backwards. Continuity is my final moan, whether its nobody anywhere else outside the normandy caring that youve completed your 'suicide' mission after returning and talking to them if you choose to play on after the main storyline has finished, or if its the deranged survivors of a crashed spaceship that have been stranded for 10 years with no outside contact but still seem to have all the same 'up to date' technology that you have. It may seem that after all that I''ve said against it that a score of 8 is generous but I will sa that everything else that I havent moaned at the game does right, the story is good, team-mate interaction and backstories are integrated will and the missions do have a very good variety to them. default game controls were dreadfull so I had to retone them back to being as similar to me1 as I could. One final point is that the final mission just didnt feel as emotional as bioware had promised, on the contrary I found myself using biowares chosen method of player choice during this mission to bump off all the team members I didnt liek and ended up feeling quite pleased with myself about it so I wont say its a bad thing, just not what was promised. Definately worth getting but not as good as the first.… Expand
  42. HolgerM.
    Jan 30, 2010
    10
    Practically perfect. My actual score would be something like 9.5 because there are a few minor bugs and some elements could be refined a little. But the game is awesome. Surpasses ME1 in almost every area. More team members, better and wittier interactions (Talk to Joker, you'll know what I mean). All in all, you will not regret buying this game. Just look at the scores. I'm not Practically perfect. My actual score would be something like 9.5 because there are a few minor bugs and some elements could be refined a little. But the game is awesome. Surpasses ME1 in almost every area. More team members, better and wittier interactions (Talk to Joker, you'll know what I mean). All in all, you will not regret buying this game. Just look at the scores. I'm not the only one praising the game.… Expand
  43. GabeT.
    Jan 29, 2010
    9
    -- Graphics -- Great. No anti-aliasing, but that's hardly a complaint. Beautiful environments as well. -- Story -- Very in-depth story development, but also has methods to skip though the lore if you don't want to hear it. Doing so hardly decreases your understanding of what's going on too. One of the few problems of ME2 however is that much of the story and your decisions -- Graphics -- Great. No anti-aliasing, but that's hardly a complaint. Beautiful environments as well. -- Story -- Very in-depth story development, but also has methods to skip though the lore if you don't want to hear it. Doing so hardly decreases your understanding of what's going on too. One of the few problems of ME2 however is that much of the story and your decisions you make are reliant on having played ME1. -- Combat -- Very engaging. Tactics become very useful and the tactical pause is a fun, quick and easy way to do that. Plus, the interface is easy enough so that orchestrating your team is not frustrating. Occasionally your team members will do stupid things like not get into cover, but that's rare, and even when they do, it's easy to still make things work. -- Upgrades/Gear -- Lots of upgrades for armor, weapons, powers and so on. Unfortunately the cost of many of them is pretty steep, forcing perfectionists to mine planets for resources. While mining resources in and of itself can be a fun little mini game, farming upgrade materials can get boring fast. -- Shortcomings -- There are very few problems with ME2 in my opinion. There are a few to note however. 1) You can get stuck in walls more often than one would hope; without a jump key, when this happens you have to load the latest save. 2) The game is a bit short in my opinion; has about 20 hours of game-play to complete the main storyline. There are countless star systems in the game, most of which contain nothing but mine-able planets. I'm pretty sure this is to allow ample room for DLC. -- Conclusion -- Great game. The few flaws it has are greatly overwhelmed by the countless positives.… Expand
  44. TrentS
    Jan 29, 2010
    10
    Mass Effect 2 did not disappoint. In my opinion it is better than the first game. The controls seem easier to me, and I like the fact that there is a lot more action and less dragged out dialogue. Also i feel there are some truly memorable moments that really bring you into the story. Over all I give this a 10.
  45. acac
    Jan 29, 2010
    7
    To put the rating in perspective. Star Control 2 9/10 ME1 8/10 ME2 7/10 GTA Vice City 9/10 Another World 9/10 I think it has taken a turn from "action-adventure with light rpg elements" to "action-novel with light adventure elements". I'd like to still say it's a 8/10 but it doesn't feel as engaging as ME1, the art/lighting direction/atmosphere (sounds,music) seems weaker. To put the rating in perspective. Star Control 2 9/10 ME1 8/10 ME2 7/10 GTA Vice City 9/10 Another World 9/10 I think it has taken a turn from "action-adventure with light rpg elements" to "action-novel with light adventure elements". I'd like to still say it's a 8/10 but it doesn't feel as engaging as ME1, the art/lighting direction/atmosphere (sounds,music) seems weaker. I installed ME1 at the same time to do some comparison and ME2 on-planet locations or the stations aren't quite as compelling. The battles have improved and I like that I could start on the most difficult setting immediately as the first game was rather easy except for couple boss fights, ME2 with Insanity the difficulty is just right. Where in ME1 there was too much easy money and drops of weapons, here atleast with the Insanity setting I feel compelled to get tech upgrades. The down side to this is the new planet scanning minigame, which is ridiculous. First, the scan speed is relative to mouse sensitivity and second it's just completely boring. Star Control 2 did everything* better (*where comparisons can be applied, mainly the exploration/scanning and non-linear feeling story).… Expand
  46. HowieG
    Jan 29, 2010
    9
    Not bad at all. Unfortunately there are many things missing in Mass Effect 2 that were already present in Mass Effect 1 that I find myself wishing for. Especially in the fight sequences. ME2 has a clunky feel kinda like trying to play a FPS console game. The story is great and most of the voice acting is top notch though so at the end of the day I felt like I had read a great book. If you Not bad at all. Unfortunately there are many things missing in Mass Effect 2 that were already present in Mass Effect 1 that I find myself wishing for. Especially in the fight sequences. ME2 has a clunky feel kinda like trying to play a FPS console game. The story is great and most of the voice acting is top notch though so at the end of the day I felt like I had read a great book. If you can look past the wanna-be console style action you'll find it's a good game with a great story that is presented very well. I really liked it.… Expand
  47. FranciscoS.
    Jan 29, 2010
    10
    A superb experience in every sense. The story is well paced and engaging, the characters are great, and the combat is greatly improved. Bioware has set thebar very high, and i can't wait to see how they are going to top themselves in ME3
  48. DavidN
    Jan 29, 2010
    0
    I hate the scanning and the boring minigames. This sequel is no fun with a capitol N. No Journal or Map keys. Fighting is so frustrating. No crouch key. Gun sounds are rather tinny. Story weak. This was rushed out and dumbed down for the $$$$. PC version is a terrible disappointment. Not even worth even 1 point so I've given it ZERO. Bioware are catering to console users and the PC I hate the scanning and the boring minigames. This sequel is no fun with a capitol N. No Journal or Map keys. Fighting is so frustrating. No crouch key. Gun sounds are rather tinny. Story weak. This was rushed out and dumbed down for the $$$$. PC version is a terrible disappointment. Not even worth even 1 point so I've given it ZERO. Bioware are catering to console users and the PC version was just an after thought for the $$. No attempt was made to make this any fun at all.… Expand
  49. Ziggy
    Jan 29, 2010
    10
    Awesome game, much improved to ME1. ME1 became pretty repetitive after a few missions, this one seems to flow a lot better and is more storyline oriented and less repetitiveness.
  50. Ben
    Jan 29, 2010
    7
    Its cool but when you play it A LOT it gets so boring you hardly have any guns but yes i know great graphic but miner glitches need to be fixed and also the catacters,Some of the level are awsome and difficulty is awsome so a give it a thumbs up and player out there you should get it and all and all its Thrilling and Fun i Give at least a 6.5-7
  51. NathanielW.
    Jan 29, 2010
    8
    A solidly good game, but too linear and simplified in terms of the plot Voice acting was not all that, shooter mechanics abve avergae but nothing special, voice synching and graphics a step below the rest (Dragon Age, Fallout 3, Oblivion). Still overall a very good game,
  52. WDI
    Jan 29, 2010
    6
    The PC version is an absolute garbage, controls are sluggish, UI is not adapted for mouse. For instance you cant double click to select items from a menu. Story and especially characters is quite good. On the minus side, it is very linear, small ( the citadel is now the size of a tennis court ). Fights are better than ME1 but repetitive. It is well produced and definitively worth a look.I The PC version is an absolute garbage, controls are sluggish, UI is not adapted for mouse. For instance you cant double click to select items from a menu. Story and especially characters is quite good. On the minus side, it is very linear, small ( the citadel is now the size of a tennis court ). Fights are better than ME1 but repetitive. It is well produced and definitively worth a look.I would rate it 7+ but minus 1 for the horrible PC port.… Expand
  53. ScottE.
    Jan 29, 2010
    9
    Amazing game but the game is very short i beat all content in about 19 hours was very disappointed in the length but besides that i enjoyed it a lot.
  54. LiamH.
    Jan 29, 2010
    10
    I'll tell you this one thing: this game beats the crap out of the first one.
  55. LarryF
    Jan 29, 2010
    10
    Mass Effect 1 is now the 2nd best game ever. No game managed to connect with my emotions like ME1 and now ME2 did. It's not about graphics, gameplay, stats or other technical aspects. It's about emotion, it's about experience. I don't care if it's an RPG, an action game, a chicken or whatever. It's just a masterpiece.
  56. MaxKJ
    Jan 29, 2010
    10
    This game is beyond perfect. I love RPG's and Bioware outdid themselves once again! This is, as said, more of a shooter than a hardcore RPG. That said, it doesn't remove any of the fun you've experienced in other RPG's. There is some slight design problems though, the game misses some hotkeys (standard for journal, squad etc). I don't get why people are This game is beyond perfect. I love RPG's and Bioware outdid themselves once again! This is, as said, more of a shooter than a hardcore RPG. That said, it doesn't remove any of the fun you've experienced in other RPG's. There is some slight design problems though, the game misses some hotkeys (standard for journal, squad etc). I don't get why people are complaining about switching weapons though. No, there is no direct hotkeys, but you can scroll, and you can also use tactical-pause to switch weapons like in the first game. Works perfect. I do however miss the equipment handling from the first game, having to decide what bullet/weapon/armor modifiers to use etc. Also, I don't get why they won't allow same gender romances, I want Miranda! ;) The thermal clips (ammo instead of overheat?) works fine, it's not nearly as disturbing as i thought it would be. In short, 10/10. The game is beautiful and well worth the Deluxe Edition money I paid for it. Those minor flaws I named doesn't come nearby anything that could reduce the score. Brilliant Game.… Expand
  57. GuanEro
    Jan 28, 2010
    9
    This game is not perfect, yet I'm rating it a 9 because I'm comparing it to other Single player RPGS out there. A 9.4 in my personal Opinion. I'll make a short description about separated assets I could think of an rate them each individually. Graphics - 9: The game contains Superb graphics ME1 had problems with some textures and details. It has been fixed and optimized This game is not perfect, yet I'm rating it a 9 because I'm comparing it to other Single player RPGS out there. A 9.4 in my personal Opinion. I'll make a short description about separated assets I could think of an rate them each individually. Graphics - 9: The game contains Superb graphics ME1 had problems with some textures and details. It has been fixed and optimized here, everything is eye candy in ME2. Sound - 10: Original sounds and superb quality give a merging gameplay experience. Music - 10: Music is amazing, creative, modern, original, it is well placed according to the enviroment, it's a major success. Cinematics - 10 and dialogs -8 : Cinematics are top quality, but when it comes to dialog it can be predictive and repetitive at times, when two people speak at the same time the second dialog overcomes the first, this happens when moving, mostly. Story - 9: Yes the story is the typical "save the galaxy" story, they tried to make it darker but they fail at times, they did add some harder desitions to take. What's good about the storyline is yes, that you play it, and how it starts developing while you're playing, depending on your choices and achievements. Characters - 8: There are some intriguing characters, but there are also unoriginal ones, I don't want to spoil any details here, characters are just not for all the tastes, but there are ways to go over the characters you don't like, one wishes that with all the split personalities they'd at least fight differently in combat but a biotic is a biotic and a soldier is a soldier. Gameplay - 7: We come to the downside of the game, gameplay is repetitive and boring, but very much improved from the first ME, shooting body parts count, you make more damage if you shoot to the head or slow down enemies when you shoot their legs, you also use a magazine system instead of the overheating one in ME1, effects are better and weapon - armour management is slightly different. The bad thing is action remains the same in poorly designed FIGHTING environments. This said Mass Effect 2 is a superb game I'd definitely advice you to get if you have the oportunity, and if you like cinematic experiences, the gameplay is a bit sloppy, but the feeling of progressing through a story and being part of it makes it up for it, at least if you love RPGs. It's an adventure.… Expand
  58. Moo
    Jan 28, 2010
    10
    Absolute continued brilliance over ME1. Takes a little getting used to the new but much better controls, as well as the slightly altered role Shepard now has. Otherwise the atmosphere, gameplay, graphics, and even performance (modern machine with SLI) are a huge delight on the PC. (Pope needs a new one me thinks. lol)
  59. JustinW.
    Jan 28, 2010
    9
    If you liked the first Mass Effect then... well I don't h ave to tell you anything, bc you've already purchased this game. If you've never played the original and you want to know if you can pick up ME2 and still enjoy it; I will say yes you will. Sure there is a lot of back story and you are definitely picking up in the middle of a trilogy, but I think they adequately If you liked the first Mass Effect then... well I don't h ave to tell you anything, bc you've already purchased this game. If you've never played the original and you want to know if you can pick up ME2 and still enjoy it; I will say yes you will. Sure there is a lot of back story and you are definitely picking up in the middle of a trilogy, but I think they adequately explain key elements if you just take the time to ask during dialog. My only grief is the new planet scanning mini game. For upgrades to your equipment you have to gain materials. Those materials are acquired through a tedious process of running your mouse over entire planets and launching a limited number of probes at spots that have high concentrations of materials. This is a slow, tedious, and has you running across the galaxy constantly for more probes. But that is only a minor gripe. Get this game or you will regret it!… Expand
  60. jorion
    Jan 28, 2010
    10
    Amazing story made even more amazing. Amazing gameplay made even more amazing. My only complaint was the lack of customization you could put into the characters on the original, which really didn't matter by the end of the game because you pretty much had every skill maxed out anyways.
  61. PopeR.
    Jan 28, 2010
    5
    Mass Effect 2 for PC has shockingly bad gameplay. The movement controls make it feel like your wearing mittens. There is no way to change the mouse sensitivity. You can only sprint in perfectly straight lines. There is absolutely no smoothness to the interaction with the environment. You would think that there have been no advances in computer games since ME1 came out. I love the Mass Effect 2 for PC has shockingly bad gameplay. The movement controls make it feel like your wearing mittens. There is no way to change the mouse sensitivity. You can only sprint in perfectly straight lines. There is absolutely no smoothness to the interaction with the environment. You would think that there have been no advances in computer games since ME1 came out. I love the characters, the story, the setting. I guarantee you'll never see a demo of ME2 for PC, because nobody who tries it for an hour would ever buy it. Maybe the console versions are better, but the PC version is a horrible disappointment.… Expand
  62. MetehanB.
    Jan 27, 2010
    9
    Maybe it's a little bit different than a RPG, an Action-RPG, but still it's really the best made BioWare game, like they said =) My real score is 9.6 ;)
  63. JackS.
    Jan 27, 2010
    10
    Fantastic. If you are a fan of the first mass effect, the controls definitely take some getting used to, but once you're used to them, the game as a whole is phenomenal. Great graphics, story, and gameplay, not to mention the sound track.
  64. samS.
    Jan 27, 2010
    10
    This game is brilliant, even if you choose to look past the amazing graphics, the revamped gameplay and the voice acting there is still the numerous amount of side quests and subplots to get drown into. This is a testament to the amount of depth to be experienced even after completing it. This game is a must for sci fi and 3rd person shooter fans alike .
  65. MichalH.
    Jan 27, 2010
    10
    Simply the best action RPG, and one of the best games released in this decade. Game lets you control an undestructible marine Shepard and puts you into heat of battle better than ever before!
  66. DanielChapman
    Jan 27, 2010
    10
    This is without a doubt the Game Of The Year! I knew it would be fantastic/incredible/unbelievable before it launched and now all I can say is buy this game. You will not be sorry! Well?...what are you waiting for?
  67. IanK>
    Jan 27, 2010
    10
    Mass Effect 2 takes gaming to a whole new level. Playing it is more like guiding the protagonist through a 40 hour long movie. And a damned good movie at that. Easily the best game I've ever played.
  68. MikeS.
    Jan 27, 2010
    0
    The characters and story are far weaker in this farther cliched sequel. The gameplay is better, but that just brings it to average now with the terrible level design. At least it's not a terrible TPS anymore it's average. Gathering resources is boring, weapons don't pack a punch, it all gets repetitive pretty soon. The last boss in another disappointment, the AI is The characters and story are far weaker in this farther cliched sequel. The gameplay is better, but that just brings it to average now with the terrible level design. At least it's not a terrible TPS anymore it's average. Gathering resources is boring, weapons don't pack a punch, it all gets repetitive pretty soon. The last boss in another disappointment, the AI is terrible, the direction is meh. Ultimately Mass Effect 2 is obviously more cinematic with higher off the roof production values. However, the story is pretty lame this time around as well as the characters.… Expand
  69. davidshepard
    Jan 27, 2010
    10
    best game ever
  70. MajorA.
    Jan 27, 2010
    10
    Wondering if some of these critics actually play the game or just bash to help their commitments to other upcomming developments. This game is the top of its kind, and there are no bugs worth giving this less than a 96 in metascore or a 10 user only rating for gameplay. META remove critics paid or giving this game anything below a 90, they have not touched the game to rate so low. Wondering if some of these critics actually play the game or just bash to help their commitments to other upcomming developments. This game is the top of its kind, and there are no bugs worth giving this less than a 96 in metascore or a 10 user only rating for gameplay. META remove critics paid or giving this game anything below a 90, they have not touched the game to rate so low. Reputable critics not less than 98, so go figure.… Expand
  71. GordonF.
    Jan 27, 2010
    10
    Words cannot describe the my awe-struck expression as I played. Brilliant, unbelievable, a masterpiece.
  72. ChrisB.
    Jan 27, 2010
    9
    This game is simply stunning, heart pounding epic game. I cant put it down and i have finals. EVerything from combat to atmosphere is perfect. Only thing they could have improved on is more armor and weapons otherwise... its insanely good
  73. RickF.
    Jan 26, 2010
    10
    Exceeds the impressive first Mass Effect. The attention to detail is mind boggling, and the graphics are amazing and yet still run without lag on last years mid teir graphics cards (4850 for me). I've only played for five hours, but I'm just so impressed. This will clearly be at the top of my all time favorites list.
  74. DerekL.
    Jan 26, 2010
    10
    I have just logged 18 hours in this game and I have to say that I am completely amazed. Everything from the crisp gameplay mechanics to the amazing cinematics and story. The balance between engaging story and stunning graphics made me actually feel like I was playing out an epic action movie. BioWare has redefined gaming with Mass Effect 2 and I have hours left to go. Well done BioWare, I have just logged 18 hours in this game and I have to say that I am completely amazed. Everything from the crisp gameplay mechanics to the amazing cinematics and story. The balance between engaging story and stunning graphics made me actually feel like I was playing out an epic action movie. BioWare has redefined gaming with Mass Effect 2 and I have hours left to go. Well done BioWare, well done.… Expand
  75. YongWenC.
    Jan 26, 2010
    10
    An excellent game with good storyline, characters and combat mechanics. Minor glitches and flaws with user interface but still generally does not affect gameplay.
  76. FilipKocjan
    Jan 26, 2010
    10
    This game is truly a masterpiece! Amazing graphics, incredible storyline with many possibility and different endings.. For my, this is the best game ever! It's definitely must buy of the year and beyond..
  77. ChristopherK.
    Jan 26, 2010
    10
    One of the greatest RPG games I have ever had the pleasure of playing. As an avid fan of Mass Effect 1, BioWare has successfully delivered with the second piece of their trilogy in every way possible. While the lack of ME1's inventory system and the dumbing down of the skill system was a bit of a shock, Mass Effect 2 makes up for it with it's ingeniously engrossing story and One of the greatest RPG games I have ever had the pleasure of playing. As an avid fan of Mass Effect 1, BioWare has successfully delivered with the second piece of their trilogy in every way possible. While the lack of ME1's inventory system and the dumbing down of the skill system was a bit of a shock, Mass Effect 2 makes up for it with it's ingeniously engrossing story and top-notch, polished action. GOTY 2010 material, a must play.… Expand
  78. JennyF.
    Jan 26, 2010
    0
    Commander Shepard still has a monotone voice, which seems to be the worst voice actor for a game with such great performances. The level design is average, the gunplay has been done to death. It's slightly average. What's great is the cinematic part of it. It's better than the original, however it seems to be quite tedious and repetitive with the gameplay and the boring Commander Shepard still has a monotone voice, which seems to be the worst voice actor for a game with such great performances. The level design is average, the gunplay has been done to death. It's slightly average. What's great is the cinematic part of it. It's better than the original, however it seems to be quite tedious and repetitive with the gameplay and the boring searching for money parts of the game. Choices can matter, some characters are interesting, story is cliche, but told in a good manner, besides the annoying main character. The AI is ok, the enemies are ok, the game just seems to not really have anything to call its own unfortunately.… Expand
  79. JohnW
    Jan 26, 2010
    10
    Absolute masterpiece. Best game I have ever played - engaging story, characters and environments. Everything in this game feels so perfect - this is the best a game can possibly get.
  80. MarkS.
    Jan 26, 2010
    8
    I would have rated this game 8.5 if I had the opportunity. This is a fantastic game. The graphics are awesome the story is above average and you really feel truly involved in the story line. The shooting is really tight and feels really polished. This game is excellent and a great sequel to the first one. I do have a few complaints however, I have finished the game and the ending I would have rated this game 8.5 if I had the opportunity. This is a fantastic game. The graphics are awesome the story is above average and you really feel truly involved in the story line. The shooting is really tight and feels really polished. This game is excellent and a great sequel to the first one. I do have a few complaints however, I have finished the game and the ending wasn't really satisfying. This game lacks a lot of long missions. There are a lot of short ones. Not enough grinding. Also the game is really easy on the normal setting. That is strange because Dragon Age is very difficult for me on normal. Don't get me wrong an excellent game, but not quite 'epic' enough for me to give it near perfect. Also I got stuck in the wall 4 or 5 times and had some audio loss. Those are small technical problems though.… Expand
  81. IulianM.
    Jan 26, 2010
    8
    Two words: "Bloody Numidium". If you're an RPG fan, you know what that means. Also, if you're an RPG fan, Mass Effect 2 won't be up your alley. The game went trough heavy redesign, it's now an RPG-istic interpretation of Gears of War, but I won't go as far as call it an RPG. It's still fun, loads of laughs if you've played Anachronox, Daggerfall(or Two words: "Bloody Numidium". If you're an RPG fan, you know what that means. Also, if you're an RPG fan, Mass Effect 2 won't be up your alley. The game went trough heavy redesign, it's now an RPG-istic interpretation of Gears of War, but I won't go as far as call it an RPG. It's still fun, loads of laughs if you've played Anachronox, Daggerfall(or Morrowind), and believe me, the humour, self parody and irony in the game makes it worth while.… 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

All reviews »
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.
    Read full review
  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.
    Read full review
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