Mass Effect

 PC
User Score
8.6

Generally favorable reviews- based on 3921 Ratings

User score distribution:
  1. Positive: 3,338 out of 3921
  2. Mixed: 443 out of 3921
  3. Negative: 140 out of 3921
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  1. Keron_Heruman
    Aug 23, 2023
    9
    Mediocre as a shooter, but excellent as an RPG, the characters are awesome and the lore behind the game is sublime. The story is excellent along all the title.
    Graphics&sound are beautiful but armor is little repetitive, they should have change the inventory mechanics, is terrible.
  2. Ieronimg
    Aug 9, 2023
    10
    Mass Effect 1 was where it all started for me. The galaxy, the characters, and that sense of grand space adventure - it's all here. BioWare set the bar high with this one. Playing it felt like diving into a sci-fi novel, and I was hooked from start to finish.
  3. apokalipto
    Aug 9, 2023
    10
    Very good game. I enjoyed playing this game a lot. I strongly recommend this.
  4. WanderingLake
    Aug 8, 2023
    9
    Fantastic RPG and a must play

    What it gets right- The universe is incredible I haven't been so sucked into a gaming world period. The story is very well done and interesting the whole way through never felt bored and was excited for each new main quest and all of the companion quests Companions are unique and each of the alien companions are extremely memorable The gameplay is tight    Fantastic RPG and a must play

    What it gets right-
    The universe is incredible I haven't been so sucked into a gaming world period.
    The story is very well done and interesting the whole way through never felt bored and was excited for each new main quest and all of the companion quests
    Companions are unique and each of the alien companions are extremely memorable
    The gameplay is tight and feels very solid. Unlocking more powers for you and your team leads you to cause mayhem across multiple galaxies without being confusing or difficult to control your squad even when you all have every ability being cast on cooldown.
    Character creation. while the options are limited compared to how much customization most games have now creating a character that you will take through three whole games gave me a level of connection with my character that I've never had with a custom character even in games that I have spent ten times as much time with

    The cons-
    No ammo big problem. Guns do not have ammo all running on heat meaning that there is never a situation in the game where you are low ammo scrounging around trying to make it to the next spot and grab that next pack of ammo. Instead all game I would find one gun that I liked and then use it 24/7 until finding a new stronger gun. with no ammo you are not forced to use any other guns that ones that you like because if you shoot and shoot and shoot all you have to do it was three seconds and you can shoot more and more no need to swap just give it a second and you are good again.
    Dated graphics. It looks better now than ever and still doesn't look very good while not ruining the game it defiantly does hinder the experience when everything else is borderline perfect
    Origin connection. While not as bad or clunky as it use to be this is a feature that needs to go on all games    … Expand
  5. TURJAN
    Aug 8, 2023
    9
    Phenomenal world building and main plot. Excellent side characters/companions. Planet exploration tend to be a bit boring after a third or fourth one, collectibles are unnecessary fillers, they translate to one additional dialog in the 3rd game and a dozen of points so don't bother with collecting them. Ending is incredibly satisfying and brilliantly written. Remember though that its aPhenomenal world building and main plot. Excellent side characters/companions. Planet exploration tend to be a bit boring after a third or fourth one, collectibles are unnecessary fillers, they translate to one additional dialog in the 3rd game and a dozen of points so don't bother with collecting them. Ending is incredibly satisfying and brilliantly written. Remember though that its a space opera. It has very bombastic style of narration. Expect long speeches and epic music. Overall: very good classic and one of the few games everyone should play at least once in their lifetime.… Expand
  6. Ciocolici
    Aug 6, 2023
    9
    "Mass Effect," the beginning of an incredible saga, is an iconic game that holds a special place in the hearts of many fans. Before diving into the review, it's essential to note that there's another version available, "Mass Effect: Legendary Edition," a fully remastered compilation of the first three ME games. While some OG fans might have preferences due to visual differences, the"Mass Effect," the beginning of an incredible saga, is an iconic game that holds a special place in the hearts of many fans. Before diving into the review, it's essential to note that there's another version available, "Mass Effect: Legendary Edition," a fully remastered compilation of the first three ME games. While some OG fans might have preferences due to visual differences, the remaster surpasses the original in several aspects, including visuals, gameplay, and bug fixes. The remaster also includes one of the two ME1 DLCs without external installers. Although the original has an additional DLC, it's not a compelling reason to choose it over the remaster. The remaster offers the complete ME trilogy and its DLCs at a significantly lower price than the originals combined.

    For newcomers or players looking to experience one version of the first Mass Effect game, I highly recommend checking out the remaster. Both versions hold their charm, but I personally prefer the remaster for its enhancements.

    While I'm unsure of the game's state at launch, there are apparent issues that affect the experience. Thanks to PCGamingWiki and dedicated Mass Effect fans, there are ways to enjoy the game despite these problems. Following a comprehensive guide before playing is crucial to avoid potential problems. Check mine out. The game's stuttering issue, especially for AMD users, can be persistent, but overall patches and updates have improved the experience.

    Now, onto the game itself. "Mass Effect" captivates players from the start with its outstanding narrative and world-building. The story, characters, and alien races are fascinating, immersing players in a captivating cosmos. Engaging character hubs, conversations, decisions, and consequences shape a personalized Shepard journey, forging a deep attachment to the protagonist.

    While the gameplay might not be groundbreaking, it remains great. The combat mechanics are solid, and the RPG elements are well-executed, contributing to the game's allure. Though the squad mechanics might be an acquired taste, they add depth and strategy to the experience.

    Exploring planets in the iconic Mako might be divisive, as beautiful visuals clash with monotonous environments. Yet, landing on these planets remains a breathtaking experience with awe-inspiring landscapes and skies.

    A key point to keep in mind is that "Mass Effect" lacks post-game exploration and side-mission completion after finishing the final main mission, setting it apart from other RPGs.

    One minor disappointment is the absence of in-game achievements on Steam, regardless of earning all 49 of them. It's unfortunate that others won't witness these achievements.

    In conclusion, "Mass Effect" is a remarkable and memorable game with a captivating story and enjoyable gameplay. Though it faces some challenges, it remains a masterpiece and the gateway to an unparalleled video game series. If you're ready to embark on a thrilling intergalactic journey, Mass Effect is the game for you.    … Expand
  7. Magikcarp
    Jul 19, 2023
    8
    Gameplay - 6
    Plot & Characters - 9
    Storytelling - 8
    Pacing - 7
    Music & Sound - 8
    Replayability - 5
    Performance - 8
  8. HydrophobikFish
    Jun 9, 2023
    9
    One of the best RPGs of all time. A gripping space opera set in a shockingly well realized future among the stars. A heavy emphasis on character interactions and responsive choice means Shepard leaves a big impression on the player. The combat is seriously lacking but the worldbuilding, exploration, and narrative writing are at their peak in this entry of the franchise. This is the onlyOne of the best RPGs of all time. A gripping space opera set in a shockingly well realized future among the stars. A heavy emphasis on character interactions and responsive choice means Shepard leaves a big impression on the player. The combat is seriously lacking but the worldbuilding, exploration, and narrative writing are at their peak in this entry of the franchise. This is the only game where being a spectre feels like more than being a soldier.… Expand
  9. AJCk19
    May 6, 2023
    9
    Some mechanics are a little clunky and it could need some quality of life changes. But dang is it good, you get so entrapped into the gameplay and story. Even if you don't care about stories, this one makes you care.
  10. Magical_Viktor
    Apr 30, 2023
    10
    Существуют просто Зло и Большое Зло, а за ними обоими в тени прячется Очень Большое Зло. Очень Большое Зло, Геральт, это такое, которого ты и представить себе не можешь, даже если думаешь, будто уже ничто не в состоянии тебя удивить. И знаешь, Геральт, порой бывает так, что Очень Большое Зло схватит тебя за горло и скажет: «Выбирай, братец, либо я, либо то, которое чуточку поменьше»Существуют просто Зло и Большое Зло, а за ними обоими в тени прячется Очень Большое Зло. Очень Большое Зло, Геральт, это такое, которого ты и представить себе не можешь, даже если думаешь, будто уже ничто не в состоянии тебя удивить. И знаешь, Геральт, порой бывает так, что Очень Большое Зло схватит тебя за горло и скажет: «Выбирай, братец, либо я, либо то, которое чуточку поменьше»
  11. GhostlyMenace
    Apr 22, 2023
    8
    Its a fun game although the gameplay itself is clunky during combat. There's some pointless characters like Conrad Verner and Kaidan Alenko. The writing is a bit lackluster and the game is very short but enjoyable. The RPG mechanics are a bit simple but work and there is a sort of good cop, bad cop system with the Paragon and Renegade dialogue options.

    Choosing a more Paragon or more    Its a fun game although the gameplay itself is clunky during combat. There's some pointless characters like Conrad Verner and Kaidan Alenko. The writing is a bit lackluster and the game is very short but enjoyable. The RPG mechanics are a bit simple but work and there is a sort of good cop, bad cop system with the Paragon and Renegade dialogue options.

    Choosing a more Paragon or more Renegade path is like choosing between being a charismatic military leader or a hardened no-nonsense veteran. It should be noted that Paragon and Renegade does not equal good and evil, Commander Shepard is the protagonist working to save the galaxy regardless of which route you go down.

    The older I get, the more one dimensional I realize Saren is as the antagonist. He was a convincing antagonist when I was 14 but not really anymore.    … Expand
  12. Aedra
    Apr 17, 2023
    10
    good game. play it. it has cool aliens and fun gameplay.

    also how was 2007 16 years ago? the passage of time is a myth thought up by time companies to sell more clocks.
  13. Opex28
    Mar 28, 2023
    10
    Игра которая подняла уровень Научной фантастики и жанра космоопер на небывалый уровень! С первых же минут ты втягивался в этот мир и не мог оторваться до самого конца.
  14. Hike0403
    Jan 20, 2023
    9
    One of my favorite games. Incredible world development and pretty good fiction tho. Must play for all (preferably with the ME2 and ME3).

    Advantages:

    + Great fiction
    + Interesting characters and interaction with them
    + Very well developed world
    + Morality and choices system

    Disadvantages:

    - Pretty old gameplay
    - Slow action

    Old but gold ❤
  15. mikesgold2K
    Jan 11, 2023
    8
    Wciągająca historia, przyjemna rozgrywka oraz interesujący świat - tak można podsumować Mass Effecta. Mimo tylu lat dalej dobrze się w to gra :)
  16. AgentLvi
    Dec 27, 2022
    8
    Great game. The story is decent. The scoring is great, visual is really amazing, the voice & sound is also amazing
  17. jseph1234
    Dec 18, 2022
    10
    One of the BEST RPG's of All-Time...PERIOD! I just completed my First Ever playthrough of Mass Effect Trilogy and this was just an INCREDIBLE Experience from Start to Finish!

    Beautiful Characters, poignant and meaningfful scenarios and just some of the best 60 hours I have ever spent playing a video game or anything! 100 / 100
  18. TastieToasty
    Nov 2, 2022
    8
    Mass Effect is a steak with a lot of Fat. or even a appetizer.
    you may like fat but some people do not.

    Mass Effect 2 is a perfect fillet steak.

    Mass Effect 3 not the dessert.
    its when the restaurant closes forever.
  19. EVIL_UJIN
    Oct 15, 2022
    8
    Отличная игра, сочетающая шутер и RPG в стиле Sci-Fi. Хотя графика несколько устаревшая, но игра сделана качественно, много интересных локаций, побочных квестов, запоминающихся персонажей, различные планеты для исследования. Игра для тех, кто любит RPG, но устал от фентезийных вселенных. Mass Effect являтся первой частью эпической космической саги, которая продолжится в Mass Effect 2 иОтличная игра, сочетающая шутер и RPG в стиле Sci-Fi. Хотя графика несколько устаревшая, но игра сделана качественно, много интересных локаций, побочных квестов, запоминающихся персонажей, различные планеты для исследования. Игра для тех, кто любит RPG, но устал от фентезийных вселенных. Mass Effect являтся первой частью эпической космической саги, которая продолжится в Mass Effect 2 и Mass Effect 3.… Expand
  20. dlcatalin
    Sep 8, 2022
    10
    I finished it just now in 2022, like 10 years after it was released lol. It is one of the best games i ever played. I couldn't wait to bang Ashley. The graphics still hold pretty well, the textures are pixelated here and there. I give it a solid 10, good story, nice gameplay.
  21. Sondergaard
    Sep 4, 2022
    9
    Wonderful game that sets up the trilogy perfectly. They dropped the ball with ME2 story wise (the characters and gameplayimprove though).
    Great world building, choices that have an impact on the character (very well handled considering the amount and that they're working within a fixed story) and wonderful characters. Just fantastic.
  22. Nekrips
    Aug 12, 2022
    9
    The great beginning of the legendary trilogy! To this day, the game is the best space opera in this genre. Everything looks very interesting and exciting, from the character creation screen and its story to the ending, which depends on your decisions throughout the game. The game gives a sense of the event's scale and importance. The depicted universe is well developed and detailed. It isThe great beginning of the legendary trilogy! To this day, the game is the best space opera in this genre. Everything looks very interesting and exciting, from the character creation screen and its story to the ending, which depends on your decisions throughout the game. The game gives a sense of the event's scale and importance. The depicted universe is well developed and detailed. It is interesting to reveal its secrets and the depth of history. Each character you interact with has an interesting background and can develop in their own way depending on your decisions. All these details add depth and intrigue to the plot.
    The gameplay is varied and dynamic, combining different weapons and abilities. The exploration of distant planets is usually not very exciting. Mostly, it all comes down to finding resources and hidden bases in almost empty monotonous locations. A large amount of resources can create problems because after the missions to sort out endlessly deep baggage.
    The graphics are suitable for their time. The musical accompaniment is wonderful and atmospheric.
    The game can be played multiple times.    … Expand
  23. gotterpotter56
    Jul 15, 2022
    8
    Отличная игра в плане сюжета и постоновки, диалоги хорошо прописаны, а лор достаточен. Некоторые элементы в игре, похуже чем в их предыдущей игре Jade Empire, но все равно игра достойна и даже сейчас играется приятно
    Оценка: 8,5    Отличная игра в плане сюжета и постоновки, диалоги хорошо прописаны, а лор достаточен. Некоторые элементы в игре, похуже чем в их предыдущей игре Jade Empire, но все равно игра достойна и даже сейчас играется приятно
    Оценка: 8,5
  24. MaxSteelRocks
    May 9, 2022
    9
    Great RPG with a beautiful setting and memorable characters. You really get absorbed into the story as Commander Shepard commanding his crew.
  25. Gwend
    May 3, 2022
    8
    Отличная игра, одна из лучших в своём жанре. Из минусов разве что могу выделить простой ИИ противников и неудобство управления отрядом. 8 из 10
  26. KalKenobi83
    Apr 14, 2022
    9
    A Fantastic Space Opera asks the Question if Star Wars was set in the Distant Future of our Modern World also great characters while some of the mechanics are clunky its story and mechanics makes it great also a similar to Star Wars(1977) has a smaller story with Galactic Stakes
  27. Nandi
    Mar 21, 2022
    10
    Masterpiece, a breath of fresh air, unique universe with fantastic characters and a very intriguing story line. Sadly ruined by third installment which ruined Prothean mystery and Reapers.
  28. kyle20ellis
    Mar 10, 2022
    10
    Mass Effect has become one of the colossal cult-classics of video gaming; and rightfully so. The game has great level design, endless narrative possibilities thanks to its multi-choice format storytelling that made it become iconic in the first place. BioWare knew what the hell it was doing when it decided to use the experience they got from Star Wars: Knights of the Old Republic andMass Effect has become one of the colossal cult-classics of video gaming; and rightfully so. The game has great level design, endless narrative possibilities thanks to its multi-choice format storytelling that made it become iconic in the first place. BioWare knew what the hell it was doing when it decided to use the experience they got from Star Wars: Knights of the Old Republic and decided to apply all that to an original IP for the company. And the result: a classic that forever changed gaming in 2007.

    Mass Effect can debate-ably be considered Canada's biggest important of the 21st Century; at least in multimedia storytelling which the franchise has since gone on to 'effect'.

    Commander Shepard, The Reapers, Garrus, Tali, Urdnot Wrex have all gotten well-deserved love and respect from gamers everywhere. Mass Effect is a special franchise that feels like it's always been there in the background.    … Expand
  29. LazyLoad08
    Jan 3, 2022
    9
    The gameplay is a bit dated, but not bad overall.
    The story and immersion / role-playing is breathtaking, and this game is just so captivating.
  30. Davidnotavailab
    Dec 8, 2021
    9
    I played this game for the first time in 2018 or 2019 and i kinda got let it unfinished after doing 3 or 4 main missions. I replayed it in 2021 and actually finished it. The story is still good as it was the first time dont get me wrong, i was focusing on some sides that were too hard the first time. But with the new legendary edition it was ok, i managed to finish those section, theI played this game for the first time in 2018 or 2019 and i kinda got let it unfinished after doing 3 or 4 main missions. I replayed it in 2021 and actually finished it. The story is still good as it was the first time dont get me wrong, i was focusing on some sides that were too hard the first time. But with the new legendary edition it was ok, i managed to finish those section, the virimire mission is actually really cool. But yeah other than that the game does everything really good: the plot, the rpg, the characters, exploration. It s a 8.5 game for me even for 2008 but maybe some people might not like nowdays witch is too bad because mass effect 2 and 3 really hold up well compared to this one in terms of gameplay… Expand
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Awards & Rankings

7
#7 Best PC Game of 2008
6
#6 Most Discussed PC Game of 2008
5
#5 Most Shared PC Game of 2008

Critic Reviews

All reviews »
Metascore
89

Generally favorable reviews - based on 45 Critic Reviews

Critic score distribution:
  1. Positive: 45 out of 45
  2. Mixed: 0 out of 45
  3. Negative: 0 out of 45
  1. GameSpot
    90
    Whether you're a seasoned Spectre looking to suit up again, or a newcomer who has never set foot on the Normandy, the refined PC version is your best choice for experiencing this excellent game.
    Read full review
  2. PTGamers
    95
    Mass Effect PC wasn't rushed, this version has clearly been thoroughly thought-out to exploit the advantages of this platform.
    Read full review
  3. G4 TV
    100
    Computer owners are getting everything found in the Xbox 360 game, including achievements and online leaderboards, but with better visuals, smoother action, and a more streamlined interface. That the game rings up at a lower retail price and offers the first expansion pack as a free download is simply icing on the cake.
    Read full review
See all critic reviews »