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.
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Awards & Rankings

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

Critic Reviews

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Metascore
94

Universal acclaim - based on 55 Critic Reviews

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