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. FransP.
    Sep 10, 2008
    10
    Awesome game, one of the few games that I started over after finishing it the first time. Great dialog system, enjoyable combat, gripping storyline and good voice acting. All too often a game is ruined by bad voice acting, this one got it right.
  2. MoizR
    Jun 1, 2009
    10
    A fantastic storyline that had me gripped from start to finish and eagerly anticipating Mass Effect 2 coming this year. A must-buy for anyone who's in to RPGs or even newcomers to this genre. It's graphically brilliant, there are moments in the game where you would be simply gasping at the view. The soundtrack is not as epic as what I would expect from Bioware but still very A fantastic storyline that had me gripped from start to finish and eagerly anticipating Mass Effect 2 coming this year. A must-buy for anyone who's in to RPGs or even newcomers to this genre. It's graphically brilliant, there are moments in the game where you would be simply gasping at the view. The soundtrack is not as epic as what I would expect from Bioware but still very good. I never did more than 3 or 4 sidemissions so I can't say they were repetitive. The replay value is excellent and you even get to save your character from Mass Effect 1 and carry on with the exact same character(and your plot choices) in Mass Effect 2. Definitely not a game to miss and one that has reached the top ten of virtually every relevant GOTY category.… Expand
  3. K.G.
    Jun 8, 2008
    10
    Mass Effect is less an FPS/RPG hybrid than an interactive movie with FPS and RPG elements. The shooter aspect is 7/10, the RPG is 7/10, but the story, imagery, music all conspire to still elevate this game to classic status. I realize some people have had problems but for me Mass Effect was a totally bug-free experience. I have a feeling many complaints about bugs are due to people playingMass Effect is less an FPS/RPG hybrid than an interactive movie with FPS and RPG elements. The shooter aspect is 7/10, the RPG is 7/10, but the story, imagery, music all conspire to still elevate this game to classic status. I realize some people have had problems but for me Mass Effect was a totally bug-free experience. I have a feeling many complaints about bugs are due to people playing pirate copies. The save system serves to elevate the tension - compare this to Bioshock's Vita Chambers. Consolitis shows up in the limited and half-finished side mission worlds but otherwise the interface really looks and plays like a PC game. I would have also liked to see a space combat module as well - although I realize this game isn't Star Control IV sometimes I felt if I squinted really hard I could pretend it was.… Expand
  4. JoeA.
    Aug 7, 2008
    10
    I found this to be one of the best PC games to come out in a long time. Certainly the best since Oblivion came out in 2006. It plays like an epic movie with a great story. I finished my first play through in 41 hours and could easily have stretched it to 50-55 if I wanted to do all the side quests and explore every system. The combat is great, reminds me of Kotor in many ways. I thought I found this to be one of the best PC games to come out in a long time. Certainly the best since Oblivion came out in 2006. It plays like an epic movie with a great story. I finished my first play through in 41 hours and could easily have stretched it to 50-55 if I wanted to do all the side quests and explore every system. The combat is great, reminds me of Kotor in many ways. I thought it was great they had all dialogue voiced. It really added to immersion and that "movie" feeling. There is lots of re playability in there as different classes can play very differently and its worth it at least once to play though as a bad guy if you, like most, went though your first time as a good guy. Or to explore more and do missed side quests. Best game of 2008 imo for the PC. Unlike many ports, this one was well done. It plays fantastic on the PC with a good UI overall.… Expand
  5. AndreaM
    Sep 3, 2009
    10
    Great storyline. An exellent product from BioWare (BioWare never disappoint, never!) where everything is made with the total attention to even the smallest details. I must agree with Barnee B when he said "I find it not just the best rpg, but simply the BEST GAME OF THIS GENERATION". Strongly suggested to everyone. P.S. : Can't wait for Mass Effect 2!
  6. JohnC
    Jan 8, 2010
    10
    Great game with huge area to explore, great long interactive story, tons of guns and upgrades, plenty of characters to form squads with, and really immersive interactions between characters.
  7. SimonO.
    Oct 5, 2008
    10
    Oh my god, I haven't had this much fun with a game in many years! It is simply captivating and breathtaking. When I browse about on the surface of a new planet I just love the vista of a huge red dwarf (slowly dying star) on the hemisphere, simply magical. I will never see other planets and outer space, and this is as close as I will ever get to being the space-crusader that I was Oh my god, I haven't had this much fun with a game in many years! It is simply captivating and breathtaking. When I browse about on the surface of a new planet I just love the vista of a huge red dwarf (slowly dying star) on the hemisphere, simply magical. I will never see other planets and outer space, and this is as close as I will ever get to being the space-crusader that I was destined to be, albeit being born in the information age and not the faster than light-space age! The story is captivating and intelligent, the interaction with non-player characters is good and varied: I was shocked when suddenly I had killed this guy just because I said "off him" which was meant for fun, not in all seriousness haha. I love it. Best game for me and beats anything else e.g. Oblivion, HL2 and Crysis, bearing in mind that it is NOT a shooter, but a great movie with you as the main character… Expand
  8. Daniel
    Jun 13, 2008
    10
    This game is awesome. Yes, there are some bugs, some of which do cause crashes, but none of which are very serious at all. Also, to J.N. and to all of you who are having trouble with instability, you should probably just update your drivers. I had some very annoying instability to begin with, but when I updated my drivers for my 8600GT, I no longer had any instability, and was able to run This game is awesome. Yes, there are some bugs, some of which do cause crashes, but none of which are very serious at all. Also, to J.N. and to all of you who are having trouble with instability, you should probably just update your drivers. I had some very annoying instability to begin with, but when I updated my drivers for my 8600GT, I no longer had any instability, and was able to run the game on max stats (2.13 Core 2 Duo, 2GB G. Skill RAM, nVidia 8600GT; pretty low). Also, to the SecuROM alarmists, including our good friend Stephen Y., SecuROM is honestly not that bad. I have Daemon Tools and run Daemon while running Mass Effect, and have no problems. The servers are honestly never down. I have played the game for about 60 hrs and have never had a startup issue. About the three activations issue, I'll admit that I'm a little annoyed myself, but how many are you really going to need? This game is too awesome to uninstall, so that's not an issue, and even if you do heavily modify your computer all the time (most sane people will not heavily modify their computer more than once every twenty-four months), EA will still probably give you more activations. Contrary to popular gamer sentiment, EA is NOT the evil empire of profit-driven game making (yes, they are profit-driven, but so are all commercial companies, even the saint of the gaming world, Blizzard herself). EA makes and publishes some damn good games, thank you very much. Also, back on the point, though it is a difficult and challenging process, you can remove SecuRom. In fact, I have done so just to see if I COULD do it. It took me about three hours, but I managed. And, finally, to Stephen down there, if your vaunted principles prevent you from buying a game, of all things (I can see where you'd boycott Nike for sweatshops, but Mass Effect because of SecuROM is stupid), you, my friend, take yourself far too seriously. And finally, (I promise to shut up in just a second), please, PLEASE, do not blame BioWare for SecuROM. It was EA's decision, and theirs alone. Please, for your own sake, buy this game and enjoy the fantastic blend of Diablo 2, Call of Duty, Star Wars, and Starship Troopers that is my beloved Mass Effect. This is Walter Cronkite, and that's the way it is.… Expand
  9. TarmoS.
    Jun 20, 2008
    10
    A Grand space-opera RPG masterpiece with breathtaking attention to detail and massive amounts of well thought out content and narrative.
  10. JohnS
    Jun 9, 2008
    10
    Oh my god, people! I'll start off saying I'm giving this a 10, not because it's as perfect as it could be, but as perfect as to what you can do with available technology and the resources invested into creating this game. If you're not going to utilize the purpose of a 1-10 scale, you're kidding yourself if anything could match up to this marvel. This is just a Oh my god, people! I'll start off saying I'm giving this a 10, not because it's as perfect as it could be, but as perfect as to what you can do with available technology and the resources invested into creating this game. If you're not going to utilize the purpose of a 1-10 scale, you're kidding yourself if anything could match up to this marvel. This is just a phenomenal sci-fi RPG that is remarkably entertaining throughout both the main and side-quest storyline. The reevaluated "good/bad" morality axis, from Bioware's past KotOR game, made for a huge killing of time throughout multiple play-throughs and the choices were satisfyingly thorough. This is what I buy games for; replayability is a key assessment to determine which games are worthy to their design. If you're easily enthralled while watching a good drama, you would hit a whole new realm of emotion due to the depth shown in the characters. I really can't summarize this movie in a short manner, probably because I'm busy dreaming about playing it again haha. I did happen to crash a couple (pretty much just 2) times while playing, however, I was in the habit of saving every couple minutes simply by using the F6 key. These crashes are practically impossible to defend against and isn't at all Bioware's fault for handling operating system faults. I'm assuming any other technical issue people are experiencing are associated with old hardware.… Expand
  11. MaartenV.
    Aug 11, 2008
    10
    I don't know were to start. First off, the graphics are ace. The animations look natural enough and the texturing is very neat. The story is just pure joy, especially the final part. The cinematic make it feel like watching a good sc-fi movie, a really good one in fact. The gameplay is easy to learn and straightforward, enough explanation given. This is one of the games that keep you I don't know were to start. First off, the graphics are ace. The animations look natural enough and the texturing is very neat. The story is just pure joy, especially the final part. The cinematic make it feel like watching a good sc-fi movie, a really good one in fact. The gameplay is easy to learn and straightforward, enough explanation given. This is one of the games that keep you hooked all the time! ive got 50 hours of gameplay already and I'm not done yet! For me this is by FAR the best RPG ever made. good job Bioware!!… Expand
  12. MikeO
    May 29, 2009
    10
    I just finished playing through Mass Effect for the first time. It's one of the best games I've ever played. I beat it in 30 hours but I know there was more to do and accomplish. It seemed as though every 5 minutes I was being amazed either by the Sci-fi and science literacy, Amazing visuals, gameplay options and features or story elements. (Those visuals are very intensive on I just finished playing through Mass Effect for the first time. It's one of the best games I've ever played. I beat it in 30 hours but I know there was more to do and accomplish. It seemed as though every 5 minutes I was being amazed either by the Sci-fi and science literacy, Amazing visuals, gameplay options and features or story elements. (Those visuals are very intensive on CPU and GPU cores, my system wasn't affected by any slowdown, crashing or DRM issues I did buy it on Steam however, if you can't take the heat, get out of the kitchen.) I can't think of a game that last made me care about the personalities, interests and goals of npc characters in same way as this game has. Each of the characters has a very specific and unique storyline, each one has their own motives in certain situations which impact how a mission or the whole storyline will eventually come to a close. The science fiction in this game as a whole is far from soft; they explain practically every piece of relevant technology in the game, and many of them are theories that already exist in science now or modified from excellent science fiction writers like Poul Anderson, Issac Asimov, Robert Heinlein and many others. The voice acting is fantastic, they got several well known actors (especially in sci-fi) to play major characters as well as having at least 40 other voice actors filling in the rest of the minor characters. The game also really puts you into the position of the main character, you have many, many difficult decisions to make regarding your morality and eventual path in the story as well as how every other character will react to you in the game, The RPG element is very powerful in this game yet it remains simple, it never overpowers the action or strategic elements either, a fault many in the same genre fall to. I've seen elements in this game that when I last saw them were expressed only in the most hardcore, ambitious sci-fi games 20 years old by now, but brilliant, engaging games, Starflight, Tau Ceti and Nomad to name a few. Yes, this game reminds of some of the first and best PC games about space flight in a sci-fi setting. All of this comes together to be one of if not the most immersive Action/RPG games ever made.… Expand
  13. BarneeB
    Jul 12, 2009
    10
    The pc version is even better than, the x360! The combat interface has been improved, and although the visuals are stunning, it runs great on a mid-class pc (athlon x2 6000+, 2 gb ram, 8800 gts 512). The only problem I had with the game was, that during conversations, between each sentence, the character animation is a bit blocky. This is probably the only game I would give a 11 if it was The pc version is even better than, the x360! The combat interface has been improved, and although the visuals are stunning, it runs great on a mid-class pc (athlon x2 6000+, 2 gb ram, 8800 gts 512). The only problem I had with the game was, that during conversations, between each sentence, the character animation is a bit blocky. This is probably the only game I would give a 11 if it was possibble. I find it not just the best rpg, but simply the BEST GAME OF THIS GENERATION. I've never been shocked like this before by a game. Of course you can't directly compare older and newer games. It is even better than Kotor, which is saying something! The story is excellent! Production values are amazingly high! The attention to the smallest details is evident everywhere! There's so much content in the game that it blew me away. Graphics, music and voice-over is also top notch. There are some minor technical issues like occasional slowdowns, but they never break the game so it's probably doesn't even worth mentioning. Combat is also done very well, I enjoyed the game playing as a soldier the most, it became practically a shooter with RPG elements, and for me it is the best combination. The new conversation system works very well, it's hard to go back to the traditional one, found in other RPGs. Do yourself a favour and buy this game, even if you are mildly interested in scifi, shooter or RPGs!… Expand
  14. Novi4ekNone
    Aug 2, 2009
    10
    good game
  15. MarkW
    Jan 23, 2010
    10
    Excellent Game brilliant story, fantastic gameplay just installing the 2nd one now :D
  16. AndyP.
    Jan 30, 2010
    10
    Simply an awesome game,with memorable charachters and great story. Yeah the gameplay is not perfect,gameplay i would give a 7.5,but i have to give the game as a whole a 10.
  17. IanB.
    Nov 5, 2008
    10
    Iâ??ve just finished the PC Version, after having play the 360 version through a couple of times a while back. And I must say, I am still gripped by the storyline, I am still emotionally attached to the characters, even the ones I didnâ??t use the first couple of times through. I enjoy the subtle mix of action, threaded with story, smothered in Sci Fi credibility. Everytime I Iâ??ve just finished the PC Version, after having play the 360 version through a couple of times a while back. And I must say, I am still gripped by the storyline, I am still emotionally attached to the characters, even the ones I didnâ??t use the first couple of times through. I enjoy the subtle mix of action, threaded with story, smothered in Sci Fi credibility. Everytime I play it through, I find out and discover things I missed the other times through. I have read both novels, and they flesh out the interest in the Universe very wellâ?¦ with the prequel giving us huge swathes of background to the main game arc, and the second novel giving us key insights into cultures only touched upon in the game. There is no better example of a total experience than Mass Effect, it delivers in terms of cinematic thrust, it supplies you with a credible fascinating Universe to explore, and it also lets you walk your own destiny through the main storyline. The visuals, the music, the tactical action, the look and the feel all coax you into this world, a world where you can make a difference, a world where you can BE THE HERO, and watch the compelling story play out. Explore it many times, only slightly differently, with a new lead.. I mean what other Sci Fi experience gives you that? For me, its bigger than Star Wars. For me, its richer than Star Trek, more involved, more credible, less tacky. I am totally sold on the concept, and essentially youâ??ve provided a game Iâ??ve always hankered after since I was a star gazing child. The dulcit haunting tones of the Sovereign finding a resonating set of harmonics with my own vibration. Please continue with good work, and deliver us unto Mass Effect 2 with more expansion on the Universe and its inhabitants and the ability to participate in something so tangible and epic at the same time. All kudos to you.… Expand
  18. Ralphw.
    Oct 31, 2008
    10
    This is in my top 5 RPG games of all time. It was absolutely captivating. The twists and turns the moral decision you have to make. The more adult themes in this game just make a well rounded engaging story. This could easily be turned into a couple of hollywood blockbuster movies. I was riveted from start to finish. I cannot think of any major issues I had with this game. Some aspects of This is in my top 5 RPG games of all time. It was absolutely captivating. The twists and turns the moral decision you have to make. The more adult themes in this game just make a well rounded engaging story. This could easily be turned into a couple of hollywood blockbuster movies. I was riveted from start to finish. I cannot think of any major issues I had with this game. Some aspects of the inventory could have been streamlined and the bioitics were a little cumbersome.… Expand
  19. JB.
    May 19, 2008
    10
    Superb game. Every element is seamless - wonderful to play. BioWare do it again.
  20. LeonardoT.
    May 31, 2008
    10
    If you enjoyed the Neverwinter nights series, and don't mind a change from orcs and elves to futuristic aliens, you'll just LOVE the game, as it is much more detailed and alive than NWN2 (that is one of the best games as well in my humble opinion).
  21. AH
    Jun 14, 2008
    10
    Great plot, pretty good graphics, very fun to play. The "Star Wars" like force powers are very fun to use in battle. It is also very fun to drive the military "dune buggy" on different planets. Not that many "carbon copies" of NPCs. Conversations are funny, intriguing, sexual--very fun. Great musical score. I can't wait for Mass Effect 2!
  22. JAce
    Jun 23, 2008
    10
    This PC version is actually much more polished and everything is easier to handle than in the console version. Those things alone make it even better, and since it's already one of the better RPG games I've ever played, in PC it really is worth what ever you pay for it.
  23. AlecR.
    Jul 12, 2008
    10
    John M, I would just like to point out the reason you think this wonderful game is horrible isn't the game. Your computer isnt running the game right, meaning you dont have the system specs you need. The review industry for games is much better than the review industry for movies. In other words, I would trust video game reviews before i would movie reviewers.
  24. GeorgeC.
    Jul 9, 2008
    10
    At first, I didn't know what to expect, and almost turned away from playing the game because it was a bit confusing at first. But people said the game was good, and I decided to really give it a try. Sure enough, by the time I was about 1/3 through it, I absolutely could not stop playing the game. It's been said this game is much like kotor, since you can control the fate of At first, I didn't know what to expect, and almost turned away from playing the game because it was a bit confusing at first. But people said the game was good, and I decided to really give it a try. Sure enough, by the time I was about 1/3 through it, I absolutely could not stop playing the game. It's been said this game is much like kotor, since you can control the fate of your character through your choices, pursue a "good/bad" path, and take on missions in a rather non-linear fashion. However, when I played kotor, I don't think I experienced anything close to the enjoymjent and involvement I felt with this game. The game's real-time combat system, plentiful cinematics, intriguing storyline made me feel as if I'd just finished watching a great movie. I wanted more, and I can't remember the last time any game has ever made me do that.… Expand
  25. Kiwi
    Aug 23, 2008
    10
    A great game, with a few bugs that should have been ironed out, but nonetheless, they can be overlooked as it is perfect in pretty much everything else, and as the first part of a trilogy, it sets the game up well for it's own future, and doesn't leave you with a "halo 2"-esque cliffhanger to get annoyed with.
  26. FredrikL.
    Aug 4, 2008
    10
    This game is huge! I can not imagine how it is possible to make such incredible big worlds and still keep this impressive high quality of graphics and gameplay.
  27. DylanS.
    Aug 8, 2008
    10
    Amazing storyline and tons of awesome twists in the story. Definitely buy the PC version though, as it in my opinion is a lot better, with bug fixes and smoother gameplay.
  28. JohnL
    Oct 11, 2009
    10
    For what the game was intended to be, it's the best of the best. The only slight annoyances had in the beginning was the inventory system which has since been fixed. Mass Effect is an epic story, a full length feature film where you get to direct the ending...
  29. AlexanderS
    Dec 26, 2009
    10
    The game is the best there is. There is no game like this out there at least for now. Graphics is good, fighting and interacting is very well made. The only minus are the copy/pasted space levels. Hope ME2 will correct this.
  30. LukasA
    Jan 12, 2010
    10
    The best storyline i have ever played! Storyline: 10 Gameplay: 10 Combat: 8 due to some stupid enemies and AI i give it 8 instead of 10. Overall: 10 I got grapped by this game so hard, i cant wait until the sequel comes out here in January!
  31. Jeffrey
    Jan 16, 2010
    10
    Mass Effect is a very immersive Rpg with a well put together story line and easy yet tactical combat aproach.
  32. MatthewV
    Jan 17, 2010
    10
    With it's port to the Computer, Mass Effect only got better. Combat became smoother, and the mechanics were improved. It's storyline and gameplay are proof that Bioware is, without doubt or equal, the King when it comes to creating RPGs.
  33. KyB
    Jan 17, 2010
    10
    Absolutely phenomenal. I've never beaten a games single player more than 3 times, I've beaten this 10 times now. It is just an extraordinary adventure with great game play, storyline, and choices. People are like, "choices don't matter!" Well, maybe there weren't critical ones that made a tremendous difference, but in the second one, it will be clear what choices Absolutely phenomenal. I've never beaten a games single player more than 3 times, I've beaten this 10 times now. It is just an extraordinary adventure with great game play, storyline, and choices. People are like, "choices don't matter!" Well, maybe there weren't critical ones that made a tremendous difference, but in the second one, it will be clear what choices affected what. Pros: -Great Graphics, -Great Game play -Amazing story -Ultra believable characters -Fantastic voice actors -Immersive environments -6 classes -Fun -Tons of side quests -Choices. -Large array of weapons -Large array of armour -Ability to chose your squad mates -Ability to chose when you do the missions -Goal for level 60 and beating it on Insanity difficulty -Awesome dialogue and responses Cons -Graphics are great, but there are a few odd hitches. Smooth otherwise -Ally AI are sometimes a bit dumb, but they usually listen -No heavy weapons, but Mass Effect 2 does -Some choices don't make much of a difference, but in the second one they will matter a bit more. IE Killing the Council or not. -Sometimes I wish there was a longer Main Story, but I've beaten it 10 times on all difficulties aside from the easiest, and I enjoy it more each time. Highly recommended.… Expand
  34. ChrisM.
    Dec 23, 2008
    10
    Absolutely amazing game, I just finished playing Fallout 3 before this, and looking back, I like Mass Effect way more. Also its worth noting that Mass Effect just came out on steam, without any extra DRM crap, just the regular steam DRM which is perfectly acceptable to me. The game has a steep learning cure, and it took me well over 4 or 5 hours to really grasp everything, but after thatAbsolutely amazing game, I just finished playing Fallout 3 before this, and looking back, I like Mass Effect way more. Also its worth noting that Mass Effect just came out on steam, without any extra DRM crap, just the regular steam DRM which is perfectly acceptable to me. The game has a steep learning cure, and it took me well over 4 or 5 hours to really grasp everything, but after that its smooth sailing.… Expand
  35. TimT.
    Jun 13, 2008
    10
    The single best single-player experience I've ever had in my 18 years of being a gamer. So what if it doesn't have a completely open world? It beats GTA IV in my book because of it's incredibly well-designed universe, races, and characters. Let's see GTA imagine an entire, fictional, sci-fi world that feels so real you could get lost in it.
  36. MatthewN.
    Jun 25, 2008
    10
    This game is simply the best I've ever played in my whole life. /Music: Awesome - it sounds very similar to Half Life, it's more dynamic and futuristic. /Video: People who rate it down because of video problems should check their PCs first. Graphics are stunning, it's like watching an interactive movie with virtual actors. /Gameplay: I had fun, without any problems in the This game is simply the best I've ever played in my whole life. /Music: Awesome - it sounds very similar to Half Life, it's more dynamic and futuristic. /Video: People who rate it down because of video problems should check their PCs first. Graphics are stunning, it's like watching an interactive movie with virtual actors. /Gameplay: I had fun, without any problems in the fight, classes are well planned, there are some tiny bugs - unworthy of mentioning. /Story: It's unlike anything you've ever seen, not so deep as KotOR, but still very interesting. /Overall: I could rate this game 1000/10 if I could (add this option for me please!).… Expand
  37. AaronF.
    Jun 29, 2008
    10
    By far the most entertaining and engrossing RPGs I have ever played, Bioware certainly outdid themselves from KotOR with this absolute gem of a game. Anti-RPG-ists will certainly love this game, stemming from the perfect melding of a film, an RPG and a third-person shooter. You feel like you are playing a movie. Amazing!
  38. AndreasPfister
    Apr 19, 2009
    10
    Very, very good Game !
    To be honest, those ratings regarding activation and SecuRom Protection are really stupid !
    Everybody has internet, i like to activate my game, whats bad with it ( maybe my grandpa do not like to activate a software online ... ).
    And SecuRom, come on, use google and be ready after 5 minutes ... ( i had no problems ... )
  39. DanJ
    Jun 15, 2009
    10
    Very enjoyable. One word that definitely describes this game perfectly is balance. The game excels in giving you a sense of choice and control within a brilliantly conceived game world through masterful storytelling. Excellent blend of action and RPG character development and use of Unreal Engine 3 helped to make the game look beautiful. While the character building elements are probably Very enjoyable. One word that definitely describes this game perfectly is balance. The game excels in giving you a sense of choice and control within a brilliantly conceived game world through masterful storytelling. Excellent blend of action and RPG character development and use of Unreal Engine 3 helped to make the game look beautiful. While the character building elements are probably not the most detailed (you choose weapon and ammo loadout, skills and abilities, and your squad characters) with experience points automatically assigned throughout the course of the action it was the perfect cross-over for this reviewer who is mostly an FPS gamer. This game has wonderfully rich dialog and character/story interaction that isn't boring nor contrived and seemed to flow well regardless of the dialog choices made. In fact, I don't remember being bored playing this game at all. I mean, you can choose to run around a space station or planet for hours if you want and talk to everyone you can and you may get bored due to the distance travelled (tip: there is no achievement for this) but following the storyline cues makes this game an extremely enjoyable experience. If you want and like to explore, you can do that too, and some exploration is encouraged and essential. I didn't expect much from this game but was very impressed. One of the best single player experiences I've had for a while.… Expand
  40. DavidR
    Nov 12, 2009
    10
    This game has 2, and only 2 big faults (at least in my opinion). 1: Too many items and a poor inventory managment menu lead to constant micromangeing of equipment. 2: The side missions are a little cookie-cutter like and mostly forgettable. Still, this game has some of the best voice acting, immersive world and an excelent story. That's is one of the most important parts of any RPG This game has 2, and only 2 big faults (at least in my opinion). 1: Too many items and a poor inventory managment menu lead to constant micromangeing of equipment. 2: The side missions are a little cookie-cutter like and mostly forgettable. Still, this game has some of the best voice acting, immersive world and an excelent story. That's is one of the most important parts of any RPG and bioware nailed it. Also: A thumbs up to demiurge for the excellent port-work. Porting a game designed from the ground-up to work with a console is difficult, but the PC version has better controls, better menus and feels like the diffinitve version of the game. Well done. :)… Expand
  41. tsabszy
    May 29, 2013
    10
    i love this game. i have played it through about 6 times. in love wih the desing, feeling and storytelling! the gameplay is ok, i mean the fighting was far from perfect, but still i have played more with this game than with it's sequels together
  42. Ra-Qin
    Dec 4, 2012
    10
    While being years old, and now part of a recently release trilogy bundle, this game still holds it's own. Graphics are stellar (pardon the pun), and the storyline maintains the above par standards BioWare is (or was) known for when under the leadership of the good Dr's Zeschuk and Muzyka.

    The Good: Fluid controls, excellent mix of characters, 6 different classes to chose from, fully    While being years old, and now part of a recently release trilogy bundle, this game still holds it's own. Graphics are stellar (pardon the pun), and the storyline maintains the above par standards BioWare is (or was) known for when under the leadership of the good Dr's Zeschuk and Muzyka.

    The Good: Fluid controls, excellent mix of characters, 6 different classes to chose from, fully voiced NPCs, and an array of weaponry and talents exceeded only by MMOs or Borderlands. The Bad: No XB360 controller support, difficult to apply the DLC (to my Steam version at least), and hard to configure for those wishing to play on 16:10 displays.

    Overall - One of the reasons I did not play Mass Effect when I bought it in 2008 was that the story seemed to drag. Aside from the fact that I was hip-deep in WoW, I would have gladly played the game if it got off to a bang (like ME2 does; BioWare took notice of this flaw and fixed it in the second installment), but the game does not move or begin to make any sense until you are about 3 hours into it and taking your first mission away from Citidel Station.

    The greatest appeal for me was the ability to play he lead role of Commander Shepard as a female with a fully voiced role, supported by BioWare's multipathed conversation selections. I felt a connection with the character, and was able to see the galaxy from her eyes. It was also impressive that BioWare created an opportunity for the character to enter an emotional/physical relationship with with either male or female members of the crew. The male relationship can be meaningful or trite, and the female relationship was well written and classy; it did not come off as a twenty-something male's **** More than likely BioWare consulted women of experience to write those scenes. Mission play is great, with some missions affecting the main storyline of Shepard's pursuit/investigation of Saren, and other will designed side-missions to assist you with character development (more levels, money, guns, and skills are earned this way). Missions can vary in length from 10 mins (if you whiz though it) to 4 hrs. Additionally, DLC missions are available from BioWare's site; Bring Down the Sky is free and lasts 3 hrs, while Pinnacle Station costs $5, and allows you to develop your character in a holo-training environment. Both DLC packages are side-missions with no effect on the main story; you don't have to get them, but they are worth the $5. Aside from it's global appeal, Mass Effect has earned a rightful place in my personal gaming hall of fame. If you don't have it, go get it. If you do have it, take the time to do EVERYTHING the game has to offer...the stories and content are well beyond that of 99% of the games that are out there.    … Expand
  43. Tubie
    Oct 2, 2010
    10
    If you are a fan of sci-fi you owe it to yourself to get into this trilogy, the first game is incredible. you get to play this game and import your character into Mass Effect 2 and we can all guess it will happen the same for Mass Effect 3, this brings a great deal of immersion with the character you play with in this fantastic fictional universe.
  44. temps
    Nov 17, 2011
    10
    Mass Effect is a masterpiece of modern gaming. The graphics were good for their time, the story was superb (albeit off to a slow start at first), and the combat/gameplay is acceptable, once you get sufficiently deep into the game. The DRM used in the retail version uses SecuROM, which might have been a deal-breaker for me, but Steam offers a digital edition of the game without this kind ofMass Effect is a masterpiece of modern gaming. The graphics were good for their time, the story was superb (albeit off to a slow start at first), and the combat/gameplay is acceptable, once you get sufficiently deep into the game. The DRM used in the retail version uses SecuROM, which might have been a deal-breaker for me, but Steam offers a digital edition of the game without this kind of nonsense DRM (I highly recommend going this route, especially if you already are familiar with and use Steam for other games).

    Overall, despite the merely "ok" combat, Mass Effect makes up for it with its nice graphics, outstanding story, terrific atmosphere, fun character and dialog options, and overall sense of cinematic appeal. If you want the epic military sci-fi adventure of the decade, look no further!    … Expand
  45. WangSulah
    Dec 28, 2010
    10
    I played through this game twice, which is rare for me. A slow starter, as I recall having trouble getting into it the first time, but definitely worth sticking it through. Compelling story, good cast, awesome environments, especially on the planets, and plenty of things to see and do if you're an obsessive completionist like I am. Without a second thought, I give this game a 10, andI played through this game twice, which is rare for me. A slow starter, as I recall having trouble getting into it the first time, but definitely worth sticking it through. Compelling story, good cast, awesome environments, especially on the planets, and plenty of things to see and do if you're an obsessive completionist like I am. Without a second thought, I give this game a 10, and look forward to playing the two sequels.… Expand
  46. BlackOmega
    Oct 7, 2011
    10
    Mass Effect is an overall great game. If you recall the "Choose your own adventure" books, this has a very similar "feel." As K.G. put it, it's more of an interactive movie with FPS/RPG characteristics. First the good: The story line. The story line is captivating and intriguing. You're a commander of starship flying around the galaxy trying to expose a traitor but what you find is muchMass Effect is an overall great game. If you recall the "Choose your own adventure" books, this has a very similar "feel." As K.G. put it, it's more of an interactive movie with FPS/RPG characteristics. First the good: The story line. The story line is captivating and intriguing. You're a commander of starship flying around the galaxy trying to expose a traitor but what you find is much more than that. There are tons of planets to explore, tons of missions and NPC's to talk to. You can also customize quite a bit about your character and even your squad mates armor and loadout. Everything from your characters appearance (face), to the armor you're wearing to what weapons you use an what upgrades they have installed. The graphics are pretty good for the most part. It's no Crysis (1), but this is a port after all so I doubt an Xbox or PS3 could handle anything more than this game puts out. This game is four years old now, and the sheer size of the universe that you're playing in,which is huge, it's bound to have some repetitive textures, especially on relatively insignificant planets. However, for the most part, they're still pretty good and the scenery is great.
    The music is really good and draws you in to the story more as it's scripted to come on at specific times during action sequences and whatnot. And if you really want to know more about the game than is presented during gameplay, open up your codex and there's a lot of backstory. The bad: There really isn't much. One problem I've had with the game was the NPC's audio. During interaction with them, their speech would occasionally cut out (music and ambient sounds still play). Which kind of sucks for the story, however, enabling subtitles remedies that. Perhaps it was just my soundcard not playing well with the game (Creative X-Fi extreme music). However since Creative's last update for the card, I haven't come across this issue. Another issue I've found, however VERY infrequently, is getting stuck. There's an area that looks explorable, yet, you go there, and you get stuck. You have to reload the game. However, this is VERY infrequent. Other thoughts: The combat system is somewhat simplistic. It's semi FPSish except you can "pause" the action and command your squad to attack specific targets with specific attacks (weapons, biotic or tech attacks). Other than that, it's just like an FPS duck for cover, point and click, throw grenade, melee attack, etc. I don't see how people have issues with popping out of cover to shoot. It does it automatically, however, you have to be at the edge of what ever you're hiding behind for it to work. As far as I can tell, there aren't really any hitboxes in the game. Meaning headshots don't do any more or less damage than body or appendage hits. The next issue is the inventory system. It doesn't alphabetically organize and group together identical items. Kind of a pain. However, you can carry a whole helluva lot of stuff (150 items IIRC). For what it's worth, I haven't had this game crash ever. Not once. I've played it on an old 2.6GHz 939 dual core AMD system with 2 9600 GSO's, to an overclocked AM3 rig with 2 4870's, to an i7 (8core) with a 5870 using Windows XP and Windows 7 64 bit --runs flawlessly. People that have had the crashes most likely have a virus and don't know it, or their overclock is unstable. This is a PORTED game and as such, I've personally found ported games to crash frequently when your overclock is unstable. Final thoughts: All in all Mass Effect is a excellent game. Don't expect it to be like a traditional RPG --it's not. It's not an FPS either. However, the story is what makes this game. It's fresh, diverse, and totally engrossing. It gives you the freedom to act how you'd like and change the fate of the story. This game is the first of three, and what decisions you make in this game will affect some things in the second one, and from what I've read, will significantly impact the third. PS:The people that gave this game a 0 because of the DRM are idiots. That's NOT a review of the game. It's them whining and complaining about EA digital rights management (DRM). Should've bought it on Steam, and you can install it as many times as you like. PPS: Even if you do have the retail copy, and you use your 3 installs, simply call or get on live chat with EA support and they'll unblock it. And they're so good about it, if you ask for the Bring down the sky key they'll give it to you FOR FREE!

    GREAT GAME BUY IT, YOU WONT REGRET IT!    … Expand
  47. Chaozzak
    Nov 7, 2011
    10
    I didn't know what is this game about, nor i care. But after only 1 hour of playing I loved it. Story telling is amazing with deep characters around you and trust me, you will love them all. Graphics are ok, level design is perfect and combat system is average. Soundtrack and voice overs are great too! Bioware really took care about this one and I am grateful for it. Really great RPG
  48. The_Gooser
    Mar 12, 2011
    10
    Simply a great game, I had way too much fun playing this game. If you are a fan of role playing games, then please go out and purchase this right now.
  49. Tata
    Sep 11, 2011
    10
    After getting a patch and playing the game again, I realized how great it is compared to the second one. Combat is much better, Story is better, feels more like an RPG. Darkside/Lightside returns from KOTOR (which is pretty good). For 5$, It's a must buy.
  50. whitespider999
    Feb 13, 2012
    10
    Overall, I like mass effect 1's more rpg like focus to it's mechanics and stats than mass effect 2's more functional and bare streamlining. However, while this game is a better rpg - it also has more lows in it's pacing. Some sections in mass effect are incredible and interesting, others are slow moving. I think mass effect 2 should have never removed the planet exploration. In the end. IOverall, I like mass effect 1's more rpg like focus to it's mechanics and stats than mass effect 2's more functional and bare streamlining. However, while this game is a better rpg - it also has more lows in it's pacing. Some sections in mass effect are incredible and interesting, others are slow moving. I think mass effect 2 should have never removed the planet exploration. In the end. I score both games the same. 9/10. For different reasons, mass effect 2 is a perfectly paced game, that was successfully streamlined. However lost some of it's scale as a result. Mass effect 1 was more ambitious, however it was occasionally boring.… Expand
  51. Chapa9dj
    Jan 23, 2012
    10
    And i still think that back in the day i used to hate this game with every fiber of my being because it didn't work properly on my PC. What a stupid and worthless fool i was.
    Until one day i woke up and thought about giving it a 2nd chance testing new GPU drivers and for my surprise, it worked flawlessly.
    Then later that day i fell in love with this game and it become one of my favorite    And i still think that back in the day i used to hate this game with every fiber of my being because it didn't work properly on my PC. What a stupid and worthless fool i was.
    Until one day i woke up and thought about giving it a 2nd chance testing new GPU drivers and for my surprise, it worked flawlessly.
    Then later that day i fell in love with this game and it become one of my favorite franchises of all time.
    I didn't know what i was missing. And you know what? Since then, i now wake up everyday and i thanks to myself for giving this game another chance. :')    … Expand
  52. mazzaneo
    Apr 20, 2011
    10
    Overall an amazing game with a rich and compelling story line. It truly feels like a movie that you are in complete control of. The controls take some getting used to but work very well. If you have not played Mass Effect 2 yet i thoroughly recommend you start with this and then move to 2, especially now that it is a budget title!
  53. Kondorr
    May 21, 2011
    10
    BioWare games had for years a very similar narrative... an elite task force (Grey Wardens, Jedi, Spectres, Spirit Monks) recruits a new cadet, who will take on an epic journey to save the day from an apocalyptic evil, while recruiting colorfull characters to his team.

    Although the gameplay mechanics are lesser to Mass Effect 2, I believe this game is the best version of the above told    BioWare games had for years a very similar narrative... an elite task force (Grey Wardens, Jedi, Spectres, Spirit Monks) recruits a new cadet, who will take on an epic journey to save the day from an apocalyptic evil, while recruiting colorfull characters to his team.

    Although the gameplay mechanics are lesser to Mass Effect 2, I believe this game is the best version of the above told story... and therefore it is the best BioWare game... In MY opinion. The political plot, the immersive galaxy, the amazing characters, the beautiful locations and the uber epic finale make this game an unforgettable tale.

    I have to mention one other aspect... this game has the most tasteful sex scene ever... and yes, I have played Heavy Rain, all Mass Effects, all Dragon Ages and all Witchers... (and all God of Wars... but these were not exactly what one would call tasteful :D ).

    While there are many locations which are simply copy-pastes, and the Maco is not exactly the easiest to control vehicle I could not say, that these things bothered me (where as the copied locations in DA2 did bother me.. what can I say... opinions are subjective).

    Besides the gameplay mechanics I have to mention the cut-scenes... which are AMAZING... on the level of the best sci-fi epics in movies. The music is stunning, the editing is perfect, the set pieces are beautiful and the camera angles are on spot.

    Yes, I believe, that despite its flaws, that Mass Effect 1 is indeed the best BioWare game to date (followed very closely by Mass Effect 2)!    … Expand
  54. Thradar
    May 2, 2011
    10
    One of the most immersive, well acted, and well written action/RPGs I've ever played. One my third playing of ME1 and ME2 to prepare for ME3 this fall.
  55. Yann
    May 6, 2011
    10
    [FR] Un jeu d'une qualité exemplaire. Un jeux qui mélange jeu de tir à la première personne et jeu de rôle où chaque décision prise influence intégralement l'avenir de votre personnage... et se répercute dans Mass Effect 2, puis Mass Effect 3. Se doit d'être[FR] Un jeu d'une qualité exemplaire. Un jeux qui mélange jeu de tir à la première personne et jeu de rôle où chaque décision prise influence intégralement l'avenir de votre personnage... et se répercute dans Mass Effect 2, puis Mass Effect 3. Se doit d'être joué par tout amateur de jeu de tir!… Expand
  56. Matseb2611
    Mar 4, 2012
    10
    I'll begin by saying that I fell in love with the game within the first half an hour of me playing it, and that happens VERY RARELY for me. Mass Effect is simply a fantastic sci-fi RPG. It delivers an amazingly huge world, full of different planets, alien races, technology, and locations. Everything in the game has a background to it, creating an extremely rich and immersive world. AnotherI'll begin by saying that I fell in love with the game within the first half an hour of me playing it, and that happens VERY RARELY for me. Mass Effect is simply a fantastic sci-fi RPG. It delivers an amazingly huge world, full of different planets, alien races, technology, and locations. Everything in the game has a background to it, creating an extremely rich and immersive world. Another thing I really loved about Mass Effect was how well the personalities of characters were developed, especially your party members. Of the 6 available party members, I ended up using them all at some stage. There were never any benchwarmer characters as is common with many party-oriented RPGs. I haven't even gotten to the gameplay yet. The RPG elements are superb. You get to choose between 6 different character classes, and even within each class there are many skills and abilities which you can learn in whichever order you want. When interacting with the NPCs, you get to choose every single line that your character says. That is how much variation there is in the game's dialogue. And the things you say greatly affect how other characters feel about you. There is a lot of freedom in the game, in a sense that you can roam about the entire galaxy and do sidequests as you see fit. Even most of the primary quests you can do in any order you wish. There were of course a few things I could nitpick. For example the control of Mako (the tank) was a bit frustrating at times, but any flaws are very minor and do not detract from the amazing experience that this game offers. Now I am going to play Mass Effect 2, and according to what I hear, it is even better. If that's the case, I am prepared to have my mind blown away.… Expand
  57. Mystril
    Oct 24, 2011
    10
    0/0? lol that is just not a possible score for such a game as Mass Effect. I have played this, and completed it, on the Xbox 360 and PC. I liked the PC version better, although it, ofcourse, felt a bit more special on the Xbox (the first time you play and complete a game is always more special). This game consumed my life for the 24hours or so it took me to complete it first time around. I0/0? lol that is just not a possible score for such a game as Mass Effect. I have played this, and completed it, on the Xbox 360 and PC. I liked the PC version better, although it, ofcourse, felt a bit more special on the Xbox (the first time you play and complete a game is always more special). This game consumed my life for the 24hours or so it took me to complete it first time around. I was glued to the screen haha, it reminded me of playing Diablo 1, Baldurs Gate 2, Diablo 2, the first time. Definitely a 10/10, instant classic.… Expand
  58. kriskizlyk
    Jan 20, 2012
    10
    Great game and a well deserved 10, the soundtrack makes me come back and play it again and again. The story line was quite quick but the game makes up with lots of side quests...if the side quests had more meaning then there would be something then it would be a real 10.
  59. Bloodhawk12
    Jun 24, 2011
    10
    This game caught me by surprise when i first saw it in a game magazine i didn't know what to expect but seeing that it was from the developer who made on of my favorite games of all time i decided to give it a chance. The graphics are above average for the time when games couldn't seem to choose the path they wanted to take in that regard. The story rivals that of some of the highestThis game caught me by surprise when i first saw it in a game magazine i didn't know what to expect but seeing that it was from the developer who made on of my favorite games of all time i decided to give it a chance. The graphics are above average for the time when games couldn't seem to choose the path they wanted to take in that regard. The story rivals that of some of the highest quality, it is just an extremely fun game that ties well into the second game which makes playing this game just that much more worth it.… Expand
  60. Asdoorip
    Aug 27, 2011
    10
    One of the best RPG/Action game ever, better than ME2.
    What I liked : Storytelling, Characters, Depth, Immersion, Very personal game, Makes you feel you have control.
  61. nicktaste
    Aug 7, 2011
    10
    Mass effect is a masterpiece. I simply loved the story and playing as a renegade commander shepard. The protagonist in this series is actually fun to play and kicks some serious ass. On insanity difficultly and starting off as a level 1 the game offers an entertaining yet not overly difficult challenge. Different character classes and paragon/renegade paths further contribute to the gamesMass effect is a masterpiece. I simply loved the story and playing as a renegade commander shepard. The protagonist in this series is actually fun to play and kicks some serious ass. On insanity difficultly and starting off as a level 1 the game offers an entertaining yet not overly difficult challenge. Different character classes and paragon/renegade paths further contribute to the games replay value. One of my favorite games of all time. While the game is not perfect i still reward it with a solid 10.… Expand
  62. Sealreth
    Aug 8, 2011
    10
    Best rpg in its space

    story is the best I have ever seen, and I have seen a lot.
    This story contains all the elements it needs.
    The graphics were also very nice and perfect for a game like this
    the controls could be better, but you can get used to it .

    Rock on Bioware

    Sealreth,
  63. Dejakritz
    Jan 28, 2012
    10
    I loved this game to death. Exploration by vehicle and ship, stumbling on amazing, chilling, and exciting adventures in addition to the main plot, stuff I dig. I enjoyed the plot and the politics, and most of all, the characters you recruit.
  64. OliverGrau
    Dec 23, 2011
    10
    When I saw the graphics I thought my HP laptop never would have a chance running it, but I was wrong, I can play it in ultra graphics with ease! Such great graphics, which demand nothing see that is awesome! The gameplay is fun and filled with action. The story is deep and I feel like playing more, just keep discovering what this game is about. Some people would say all these cut-scenesWhen I saw the graphics I thought my HP laptop never would have a chance running it, but I was wrong, I can play it in ultra graphics with ease! Such great graphics, which demand nothing see that is awesome! The gameplay is fun and filled with action. The story is deep and I feel like playing more, just keep discovering what this game is about. Some people would say all these cut-scenes sucks, I agree and I disagree, because they are great they're really informative, and again, I just want to play instead watching some sort of short movie. Overall it's a great game, I suggest everyone gives it a try, because it's one hell of a ride!… Expand
  65. 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.
  66. gaminkid05
    Nov 8, 2011
    10
    If you own a decent computer, get this game! Everything about it is good! Don't deny yourself with the experience when Mass Effect 3 comes out so soon! Just get the game and savor its awesomeness! It is really a perfect title in my opinion, with few to zero cons! And this is not just excitement after beating the game! This is excitement 6 months after beating the game! Still not convinced?If you own a decent computer, get this game! Everything about it is good! Don't deny yourself with the experience when Mass Effect 3 comes out so soon! Just get the game and savor its awesomeness! It is really a perfect title in my opinion, with few to zero cons! And this is not just excitement after beating the game! This is excitement 6 months after beating the game! Still not convinced? I don't care, just get it!… Expand
  67. 410MaXiMuS
    May 14, 2012
    10
    The start of the BEST story-driven trilogy in gaming history. It literally rivals Star Wars in terms of history / content. You'd be a fool not to play this game.
  68. Yongx
    Dec 28, 2011
    10
    I got this game on sale from steam a few days ago, and finished the game with the good ending and a romantic relationship with Ashley. I have to say playing this game at 1920x1080 w/ max settings is amazing. I hadn't ran into an crashes or major bugs in the game. I have to say this game is the best. Only problem that really annoyed me was dying and having to start a entire level all overI got this game on sale from steam a few days ago, and finished the game with the good ending and a romantic relationship with Ashley. I have to say playing this game at 1920x1080 w/ max settings is amazing. I hadn't ran into an crashes or major bugs in the game. I have to say this game is the best. Only problem that really annoyed me was dying and having to start a entire level all over again but I fixed that by making my side mouse button auto-save.… Expand
  69. TreoWayne
    Dec 11, 2011
    10
    This game was okay, but no better than that. I am not a Star Wars fan but I loved Star Wars Kotor and the sequel. This game was like an attempt to make a third game in that series without having to pay George Lucas.

    The sidequests were extremely repetitive. All the environments that weren't part of the main campaign were repeated over and over and over. The same textures, the same    This game was okay, but no better than that. I am not a Star Wars fan but I loved Star Wars Kotor and the sequel. This game was like an attempt to make a third game in that series without having to pay George Lucas.

    The sidequests were extremely repetitive. All the environments that weren't part of the main campaign were repeated over and over and over. The same textures, the same dungeon layouts.

    The parts driving the Mako were awful. Every planet had the same mountain terrain with different colored rock textures.

    Combat was terrible. Not fun at all.

    The graphics were good and the voice overs were well done. Thankfully the option to use subtitles and skip the voice overs was available.

    The plot was decent, but I don't really like the idea of playing a game that I know from the outset will not deliver "THE END". Most of the options to be a 'Renegade' or a 'Paragon' had little to no effect on the game.

    Overall you can see that far more effort went into making this a polished multimedia experience than making a fun game. I will play the sequel, but if it is not a significant upgrade I will be skipping the third installment.    … Expand
  70. tazzon22
    Apr 9, 2012
    10
    A dated game for sure but still a lot of fun, its well worth the time and money investment. A more pure prg than the 2 and3 that followed guess they didnt have to wory about the cross platform appeal at the time.
  71. Thaltom
    Dec 20, 2011
    10
    It's rare to find a game that captures good game play, storytelling, and usability. Mass Effect is this game. Using a third person perspective you will run and gun yourself through Bioware's story as Commander Shepard, make either Paragon or Renegade choices, complete the game and then LOVE doing it again, but this time as an Infiltrator or other class. Favorite NPCs have been Joker andIt's rare to find a game that captures good game play, storytelling, and usability. Mass Effect is this game. Using a third person perspective you will run and gun yourself through Bioware's story as Commander Shepard, make either Paragon or Renegade choices, complete the game and then LOVE doing it again, but this time as an Infiltrator or other class. Favorite NPCs have been Joker and Wrex as their writing is amazing.… Expand
  72. Sasori261
    Jan 21, 2012
    10
    To me, this game was better than the 2nd. I loved the story, characters, and crew more than I did the 2nd, though by just a bit. Mass Effect is like the EA equal to Bethesda's Elder Scrolls, though not as good. The game was absolutly fun to play and I had a great time on it. Overall, the best RPG other than RPG's made by Bethesda.
  73. drake_avi
    Feb 22, 2012
    10
    Mass Effect is an excellent game!!! Awesome storyline is one of the biggest incentives to play this epic space-faring game. Combat is kinda okay, it's later sequels improves upon combat dramatically. All in all Mass Effect is one of the most impressive games i have played. The voice acting is definitely top notch and is very engaging. THis game is a must play if you want to experience theMass Effect is an excellent game!!! Awesome storyline is one of the biggest incentives to play this epic space-faring game. Combat is kinda okay, it's later sequels improves upon combat dramatically. All in all Mass Effect is one of the most impressive games i have played. The voice acting is definitely top notch and is very engaging. THis game is a must play if you want to experience the epic trilogy.… Expand
  74. Biggs27
    Jan 27, 2012
    10
    This is a really great game.It has good graphics and a cool story.The environment is done well and the character interaction is a lot of fun.To few games nowadays seem to use this anymore.You kind of get attached to some characters as you talk and go through the story with them,to many games just have cookie cutter characters with no depth this is a definite exception.The sound effects areThis is a really great game.It has good graphics and a cool story.The environment is done well and the character interaction is a lot of fun.To few games nowadays seem to use this anymore.You kind of get attached to some characters as you talk and go through the story with them,to many games just have cookie cutter characters with no depth this is a definite exception.The sound effects are really good and while the music isn't really that exciting at times, it has a haunting quality to it that is enjoyable and adds to the feel of the game.I would totally recommend this to anyone and look forward to playing the others.… Expand
  75. PrimalHunter70
    Jan 27, 2012
    10
    Mass Effect is addictive, so addictive that it compells to explore every inch of it's beautiful world! Mass Effect mimicks Star Wars, but not in a bad way. A really good game, recommended to any sci-fi fan or RPG fan out there looking for a new and innovative RPG experience.
  76. Slartibartfast
    Jan 28, 2012
    10
    Getting a bit old now, but still an excellent game. I cannot find one bad thing to say about the game, so I won´t. Instead I will say: "Thanks for making the game, some of the best gaming time I have ever spent:)"
  77. DrownedDrone
    Aug 7, 2012
    10
    It might suprise you, since I gave this game a 10/10, but DO NOT play this game. This is a great action/RPG game with one of the best, if not the best, non-linear story driven campaign that can really put you in the atmosphere of this epic world, with its long but intresting background history. I am not a big fan of replaying games but this game has the best replay value I ever seen in aIt might suprise you, since I gave this game a 10/10, but DO NOT play this game. This is a great action/RPG game with one of the best, if not the best, non-linear story driven campaign that can really put you in the atmosphere of this epic world, with its long but intresting background history. I am not a big fan of replaying games but this game has the best replay value I ever seen in a game, giving second and third playthrough additional expirience. I am not talking about the obvious morale decisions- which you can find in every game, but on the small things you only find out if you pay attention- from unlocking missions by investigating your squed crews (Only some of them, of course) to the brief talks your crew memebers have in the elevator, and to how by selecting different members you effect the ongoing of specific core-missions and side missions. Despite everything, this game is the first of three games and the sucking of the next two leave it incomplete. To be honest, I haven't even bought the third one, but I trust the reviews (User reviews, not the bribed Meta Score) so I advice you- don't get this game- you will get sucked into what seems like a great game but turns out to be a black hole… Expand
  78. efedinthea
    Feb 18, 2012
    10
    Mass Effect is by far my favourite title in the series. The rpg elements aren't that great, neither is the shooting or the story, but the fact that they're all wrapped up into the same package makes this one of my all time favourite games. unlike ME2 the story is actually somewhat compelling, you're battling to save everyone; David vs Goliath doesn't even come close to the difference inMass Effect is by far my favourite title in the series. The rpg elements aren't that great, neither is the shooting or the story, but the fact that they're all wrapped up into the same package makes this one of my all time favourite games. unlike ME2 the story is actually somewhat compelling, you're battling to save everyone; David vs Goliath doesn't even come close to the difference in power here. the rpg elements are actually there unlike ME2, and the leveling system is much more intricate and satisfying.… Expand
  79. Kosheus
    Feb 27, 2012
    10
    One of the best games ever (and ME2 too). Just love it.
    If you don't want some repetitive ADDITIONAL missions - just skip it and play storyline ones (then game really rocks). Nice animated RPG from big letter 'R'.
  80. Wulfburk
    Mar 9, 2012
    10
    At first glance on the boxshot you will think it is just another lame sci fi out there, but as you get through it and actually play the game you will experience one of the best more recent games, with awesome characters, such as Wrex and Saren, incredible voice acting and dialogue, character customization, good graphics and great gameplay, being the best of the Mass Effect series. OnlyAt first glance on the boxshot you will think it is just another lame sci fi out there, but as you get through it and actually play the game you will experience one of the best more recent games, with awesome characters, such as Wrex and Saren, incredible voice acting and dialogue, character customization, good graphics and great gameplay, being the best of the Mass Effect series. Only draw back is that some optimization would have been welcome.… Expand
  81. Kashim
    Mar 28, 2012
    10
    I love this game. It have a little bit of buggs but no bugg is critical. The control is easy to learn and if you dont like the controul, you are able to fix it at your favorit. at the brgin of the fat battle i am nearly to cry, because its so beautifull. The armory system is a bit coplicated but if you have understand, its easy and fast. the only thing what i hate is, that there were noI love this game. It have a little bit of buggs but no bugg is critical. The control is easy to learn and if you dont like the controul, you are able to fix it at your favorit. at the brgin of the fat battle i am nearly to cry, because its so beautifull. The armory system is a bit coplicated but if you have understand, its easy and fast. the only thing what i hate is, that there were no checkponts. also you have to save with F6 after every fat battle but if you don´t do you will learn to stay allive no matter how much enemies are shooting at you… Expand
  82. AthanasiosT
    Jun 1, 2014
    10
    I just want to raise the game's average. 8.6 is really not representative for Mass Effect. It was an original space-opera RPG, with great decision making and combat. A clear 10 for any RPG fan. So, get in your space buggy and go look for some ore out there...
  83. inktomi
    Jul 30, 2014
    10
    Mass Effect is a classic. I would put it up with my top 10 Must Play Sci-Fi Games of all Time list. I don't need to tell you why it's good, just that it was the beginning of a great franchise for Bioware. The main story is 24-30 hours long, depending on how thorough you are with side missions and all that. There is a lot to do in Mass Effect, so you will not be bored. The main story isMass Effect is a classic. I would put it up with my top 10 Must Play Sci-Fi Games of all Time list. I don't need to tell you why it's good, just that it was the beginning of a great franchise for Bioware. The main story is 24-30 hours long, depending on how thorough you are with side missions and all that. There is a lot to do in Mass Effect, so you will not be bored. The main story is well paced and plays well. Graphics are excellent and the controls even work will on PC's mouse and keyboard setup.

    If you can catch the trilogy on deep sale, I think it is a great investment all around. Over 100 hours of gameplay through the three games.

    Enjoy.    … Expand
  84. zareh_m
    Jul 6, 2012
    10
    The game depends on the options you choose, the actions you take, the speech you make. Totally amazing game. You can choose whether to flirt with your teammates or to be cruel leader. You can end the war the way you want to it. You can customize your weaponry and appearance from the thousands of options. Overall, the scenario is great, the game-play outstanding.
  85. PencilShank
    Jan 1, 2013
    10
    This is possibly one of the best games i have ever played. I have never felt more involved in an RPG ever. The connections you gain with all of the characters make it all the more personal. The combat for this game is very well done each fight you do feels like a scene from a movie. Every piece of dialogue in the game feels epic and important. The choices you make deeply effect the game'sThis is possibly one of the best games i have ever played. I have never felt more involved in an RPG ever. The connections you gain with all of the characters make it all the more personal. The combat for this game is very well done each fight you do feels like a scene from a movie. Every piece of dialogue in the game feels epic and important. The choices you make deeply effect the game's story and makes everything more involved. This is a must buy for any RPG fan.… Expand
  86. GoNinjaGO
    Jul 31, 2012
    10
    To put it simply, a masterpiece of storytelling and game design. Atmospheric. Engrossing. The PC version is the superior due to its higher frame rate (subject to you having a decent PC of course) but it is let down by having the low resolution textures of the console version.

    A must own/play.
  87. Frioniel
    Jun 6, 2013
    10
    An Instant Classic. Mass Effect Is a WRPG like none other. This took the groundwork from KOTOR I and II and improved in just about every way. This game has a lot of amazing features, in many ways it's a more mature take on Star Wars. One of the first full voice acted 3d WRPGs. You create your own Commander Shepard, you decide the gender, what he or she looks like, his/her service history,An Instant Classic. Mass Effect Is a WRPG like none other. This took the groundwork from KOTOR I and II and improved in just about every way. This game has a lot of amazing features, in many ways it's a more mature take on Star Wars. One of the first full voice acted 3d WRPGs. You create your own Commander Shepard, you decide the gender, what he or she looks like, his/her service history, and psychological profile. You make many choices, who to let on your crew, who you become romantically involved in, morality choices, and ultimately the fate of the galaxy. Perhaps the most amazing feature is your Shepard and all his/her choices carry throughout the series, with good repercussions and bad. Don't miss this experience.… Expand
  88. Aeruja
    Apr 12, 2013
    10
    I got this game nearly 5 years after its initial release. I have a habit of trailing the trend, and this allows me to use effectively get the best bang out of every buck I spend on games as I usually end up picking out games with the very best reviews.

    Originally, I was very skeptical of Mass Effect. I've played Bioware games before, and they usually left me with a terrible impression.    I got this game nearly 5 years after its initial release. I have a habit of trailing the trend, and this allows me to use effectively get the best bang out of every buck I spend on games as I usually end up picking out games with the very best reviews.

    Originally, I was very skeptical of Mass Effect. I've played Bioware games before, and they usually left me with a terrible impression. Mass Effect, on the other hand, was surprisingly incredible.

    Mass Effect is actually a trilogy game if you didn't already know that, but what you may not know is that, it is meant to be played all 3 in succession. If you're going to buy ME, you better be prepared to buy the complete set, because they're all interwoven so well, that if you only buy one or two, you'll always feel like you're missing something.

    And it is exactly that, that makes ME trilogy so attractive.

    It reminds me of the old "Choose Your Own Adventure" books I enjoyed so much when I was young.

    Your regular choices regularly affect everything and everyone around you, just as you would in the real world. And once you've chosen, you can consequently see your choices being played out through the trilogy.

    Unlike games like Skyrim, while you're free to pursue whatever activities you so prefer. The game doesn't presume a specific personality or allow you to presume as one. So while the freedom is there, and while there are literally hundreds of NPCs for you to meet, and thousands more dialogue to hear..at best, it only feels like a television show just being played out with you on the passive receiving end.

    The feeling is different, even different from Deus Ex. In Deus Ex, while you have choices of different responses and actions, they ultimately come off only as techniques of persuasions but the same personality is being still used.

    In ME, like in the real world, you will encounter really tough situational questions. Even while your personality will naturally reflect your usual responses, but there will still be the odd time where you will wonder what it would be like to be an "alpha" male? Or whether there is a way to change your superior's bad impression of your character? Or you want to learn a few techniques in reading in-between the lines? You know, the useful day-to-day conversation skills that you never learn anywhere else (short of countless social blunders)! Those dangerous words and actions that you've always wanted to say, but couldn't for fear of irreparable damage to your self image and relationships.

    ME's good like that, and that's why I think it stands out above the rest.

    Granted, the massive freedom, for say Skyrim, allows the game to have massive replay value, whereas a game like Mass Effect, you'll probably only play through it once, twice at best.

    But, based on the combined quality of material presented, good graphics, voice acting, seamless gameplay, and most importantly, the interactive story, is well worth the price tag of being played through even just once.    … Expand
  89. ErrorTheRealist
    Jan 23, 2013
    10
    I was brought into the series at Mass Effect 2 ended up slaughtering most of my crew because I was noob. So I decided to migrate to Mass Effect, and realized it was even better than two. I say the following honestly. One of the best games ever; and if you play it, you'll think so too.
  90. wintersonline
    Aug 4, 2013
    10
    One of the best game I have ever played! It has a fantastic story, and gameplay. It has plenty background information, If you want to read more, you can!
    I recommend to patch it to your language, You can understand it faster.
    Bads: - When on side quests, the bases has similar internal structure, it was boring. - When a character was speaking and you choose your answer, the character's    One of the best game I have ever played! It has a fantastic story, and gameplay. It has plenty background information, If you want to read more, you can!
    I recommend to patch it to your language, You can understand it faster.
    Bads:
    - When on side quests, the bases has similar internal structure, it was boring.
    - When a character was speaking and you choose your answer, the character's head and face was stuck, or lag a bit, it was not fluent.
    Goods:
    - I felt myself right in the character's role, that is the most powerful property of a role playing game I think.
    - You have to make the decisions -and they matter-, because you are the commander!
    - The gameplay was well divided into storytelling, logical, action parts.
    - I have played only once, but it has plenty variations how the story takes shape.
    - I loved all seconds I played with it, I felt I must had to know what is the next step in the story.    … Expand
  91. Setsudo
    Feb 7, 2013
    10
    Who loves SF will love this game. Story, caracters, actions, adventure... That's a package to true pleasure. The amazing thing is that you keep your caracter to the next chapters of the saga.

    Graphisms are today old but doesn't kill your pleasure and curiosity. This is a must to have
  92. drakenseng
    Feb 24, 2013
    10
    Story is great, kinda typical save the world story but its all the stuff in between. Gameplay is more like a 3rd person shooter, although you can pause combat for more tactical approach. Graphics are great for its time of release, i have no problems with it. Sound is great with execellent voice overs,music, and sound effects. Overall, a masterpiece game. I can't think of another sci fi rpgStory is great, kinda typical save the world story but its all the stuff in between. Gameplay is more like a 3rd person shooter, although you can pause combat for more tactical approach. Graphics are great for its time of release, i have no problems with it. Sound is great with execellent voice overs,music, and sound effects. Overall, a masterpiece game. I can't think of another sci fi rpg like this for the pc so it deserves a top score.… Expand
  93. LXQUICKJUSTICE
    Mar 25, 2015
    10
    PC gamers need to get the "MEUITM" texture mod to properly enjoy this game in 2015 and beyond, but it would be epic without the enhancements. I resisted playing mass effect for years because I was told by others that it was just another gears of war clone, but man was I wrong. I was SO wrong... This game's story is beyond awesome, and it turns out that playing third person in an action rpgPC gamers need to get the "MEUITM" texture mod to properly enjoy this game in 2015 and beyond, but it would be epic without the enhancements. I resisted playing mass effect for years because I was told by others that it was just another gears of war clone, but man was I wrong. I was SO wrong... This game's story is beyond awesome, and it turns out that playing third person in an action rpg can be very satisfying. I couldn't believe how good the voice acting and plot was, and still can't while writing this review. I just finished ME3 and now am deciding which of the 3 games in the trilogy I want to keep playing because they're all good. The first one will always be the best in many ways because it's all so new. Normally laser beams and space aliens turn me off because they're not realistic, but this thing manages to keep it together with some of the most impressive voice acting you will ever hear in a video game. Female Shepard is, hands down, the BEST character I've ever played in any game next to Garrett from the Thief series. (Garrett from the real thief games-not that reboot abomination.) A game hasn't sucked me in like this for years. If you've never played a Mass Effect game you'll need to start here, because the story builds with each installment, but you're only hurting yourself if you miss out on this wonderful journey.… Expand
  94. paulraised
    Nov 12, 2018
    10
    A true masterpiece from beginning to end. The only thing I would criticize is the lack of additional content. The game could have expanded a bit to offer more playtime.
  95. cidgrad01
    Dec 30, 2013
    10
    This and Dragon Age: Origins will probably go down as the last, great Bioware RPGs. While I liked Mass Effect 2 & 3, this one was the best and the sequels fell short of what I had hoped for.

    I liked everything best in this game: story, dialogue, characters, gameplay, exploration, etc. Even its flaws, like the eternal elevator rides, have given us nostalgic humor to refer back to. And    This and Dragon Age: Origins will probably go down as the last, great Bioware RPGs. While I liked Mass Effect 2 & 3, this one was the best and the sequels fell short of what I had hoped for.

    I liked everything best in this game: story, dialogue, characters, gameplay, exploration, etc. Even its flaws, like the eternal elevator rides, have given us nostalgic humor to refer back to. And Mako driving, while admittedly tedious during subsequent playthroughs, was fun the first time around. I liked how they built it into story missions and exploring new planets with it, never knowing what you’d find, was enjoyable. The vehicle sections in the sequels were okay but felt contrived.

    Some have knocked the combat & leveling system in this game, but I thought it was superior to those found in parts 2 & 3. The graphics were not as nice since it was an earlier game, but combat was the most fun here despite some of the rather, um, feminine-looking armors for Shepherd.

    There isn’t much else I can say about it that hasn’t already been said elsewhere a thousand times. It’s a classic piece of video game history and one that may never be duplicated.    … Expand
  96. 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
  97. LairdEJM
    Sep 10, 2013
    10
    A true masterpiece which sets up a Universe so utterly absorbing that you will be compelled to pledge yourself to the trilogy. The customisation of Shepard and his/her character and your ability to direct the story yourself gives you the feeling of an alter ego living another life in the future.

    Combat and items are very enjoyable, but the conversation wheel system which has gone on to    A true masterpiece which sets up a Universe so utterly absorbing that you will be compelled to pledge yourself to the trilogy. The customisation of Shepard and his/her character and your ability to direct the story yourself gives you the feeling of an alter ego living another life in the future.

    Combat and items are very enjoyable, but the conversation wheel system which has gone on to feature in many other games is a true stroke of genius.

    Playing this game makes you genuinely care about the characters and the plot to such an extent that addiction is almost inevitable.

    Is this my favorite game ever? Certainly a contender. PLAY IT!    … Expand
  98. Munkey
    Feb 16, 2015
    10
    The sci-fi opera masterpiece which is Mass Effect is one of the best games in the history of games. It has it flaws but the whole content of the game is pure brilliance.
    First of the world is so believable because of the effort put in the creation of it and the content of the in game Codex which explains everything to the player. History of each of the race, polotical structure, trade and    The sci-fi opera masterpiece which is Mass Effect is one of the best games in the history of games. It has it flaws but the whole content of the game is pure brilliance.
    First of the world is so believable because of the effort put in the creation of it and the content of the in game Codex which explains everything to the player. History of each of the race, polotical structure, trade and military system and so on. The amount of detail put in the Codex and world building is huge. Everything feels so in place and real.
    Then are the NPC's. Written and played so well you can relate to them. My personal best are Garus and Wrex. The banter between does two is so funy to listen. Each NPC has its own story and purpose in the world. Each NPC in your team has a specific role to fit.
    The world to explore is very big. Yes it gets sometimes repetetive but the freedom to explore and some unique planet mission makes up for it. You can gather resources for cash and xp. Each planet has it description and some facts about it.
    The most important thing still to cover is the dialogue. Lots of options and everything is so perfectly voiced. Jokes, romance, threats and banter. It feels so natural. You can solve some of the quests just by dialogue.
    The only thing what isn't up to pair is the clunky combat. But it's a console port what do you expect.
    Played the game five times start to finish. Just love it. Ten out of ten!    … Expand
  99. whatever523
    Dec 27, 2013
    10
    Mass Effect is one of the best games ever created, it's as simple as that. Story, atmosphere, graphics, music, character development, exploration. Mass Effect has it all.

    This isn't an open world game, it's an open universe game.
  100. timt
    Dec 18, 2014
    10
    A game would really have to 'wow' me to get a 10. Mass Effect is one of those rare games which did. It took me off planet Earth, and injected me into the stars. Amazing story, incredibly interesting characters which you care about, and fun exciting combat.

    Last year during Christmas holidays, I introduced my brother (a university student) to the game. He finished the trilogy in    A game would really have to 'wow' me to get a 10. Mass Effect is one of those rare games which did. It took me off planet Earth, and injected me into the stars. Amazing story, incredibly interesting characters which you care about, and fun exciting combat.

    Last year during Christmas holidays, I introduced my brother (a university student) to the game. He finished the trilogy in record time (was completely addicted). Afterwards he actually went through withdrawal - said was hard to go back to normal life after saving the universe, and that he missed those the characters in the game.

    In my view Mass Effect series is one of the greatest games of all time, and the first one is the best in the trilogy.    … 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
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