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. DonyDoNya
    Sep 9, 2023
    6
    I played the Legendary Edition Mass Effect 1. Good graphics but there's no detailed regulations of it in settings. Poor face expressions, a lot of frame looses on dusty planets (on RTX 3050, xeon 2666) but playble still.
    Gameplay is decent shooter, appreciate the rpg element with different guns and modifications. But the problem is you can't switch guns easily and it takes long to do it.    I played the Legendary Edition Mass Effect 1. Good graphics but there's no detailed regulations of it in settings. Poor face expressions, a lot of frame looses on dusty planets (on RTX 3050, xeon 2666) but playble still.
    Gameplay is decent shooter, appreciate the rpg element with different guns and modifications. But the problem is you can't switch guns easily and it takes long to do it. There is no upgrade to do switch guns faster, and also no upgrade to make stamina of run bigger or replenishing faster. What makes it different from other shooters you can use skills which adds tactics to fights, enemies also can do that. I would like to have more skills though
    You can be a hero or bad guy. Nice rpg element. But there are not a lot of such moments where you can really feel the difficulty of your choice. And dialogues vary is not very creative. Its always either 1) good guy, 2) not concerned guy 3) Bad guy.
    Big minus is the boring story. Big enemy just wants everyone dead, its just the thing it does... Its not hungry, it doesn't want money, power, sex, etc. And its your menace, seriously. Apart from this the other big thing of the story is to prove that human race is cool and ready to serious bussiness in cosmos politics which is bollocs because other races are doubting in humanity because its younger than others and aliens didn't know that humans have deduction (first dialogue of Shepard with Council)! Everything in Mass Effect is about race, race, race. Its clearly just racism problem that story writer finds as interesting theme. But most of the races that you see are not very different. Why player would even think about hating or respecting or even care other races? But story writer puts you in front of all these choices when you either hate or respect some race. It makes me think that story writer is a dummy    … Expand
  2. 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.
  3. 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.
  4. apokalipto
    Aug 9, 2023
    10
    Very good game. I enjoyed playing this game a lot. I strongly recommend this.
  5. 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
  6. 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
  7. 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
  8. Magikcarp
    Jul 19, 2023
    8
    Gameplay - 6
    Plot & Characters - 9
    Storytelling - 8
    Pacing - 7
    Music & Sound - 8
    Replayability - 5
    Performance - 8
  9. 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
  10. 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.
  11. 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»
  12. 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
  13. 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.
  14. Naked_Snakee
    Apr 7, 2023
    7
    Just text (crutch) to save the game to the list. Such things. Maybe I'll do a review later.
  15. 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.
  16. JustinForgueims
    Mar 2, 2023
    6
    Really disappointed with this game and its great expectations.
    Is a good movie but a bad game.
    It has a good story, not the best ever seen but solid and deep, specially with the epic ending. The narrative is good same as the NPCs development and the side missions. Out of this everything else related to the game needs big improvements: - The combat is not smooth. It's not a FPS    Really disappointed with this game and its great expectations.
    Is a good movie but a bad game.

    It has a good story, not the best ever seen but solid and deep, specially with the epic ending.
    The narrative is good same as the NPCs development and the side missions.

    Out of this everything else related to the game needs big improvements:
    - The combat is not smooth. It's not a FPS neither a tactical combat. It's something in between that's not working at all.
    - The locations are just boring. Out of a couple of history related locations, everything looks the same. Same planets with stupidly steep mountains, just with different colors. All the bases, caves, buildings, ... with exactly the same interior design and rooms.
    - The driving sections are a nightmare. You have a dummy car that bounces like an air balloon regardless of the planet gravity. The camera and controls are a real mess, not responding to the directions you're commanding.
    - The "opening things" minigame is annoying as hell. Not because it's difficult but because you have the same minigame over an over for everything: opening boxes, investigating minerals, searching bodies, ... You really don't need minigames for quite basic actions and absolutely not a kind of decoding game when you're doing any activity that's not related to electronics at all.
    - The inventory management sucks. Long lists of items without any other distinction than text stats. So many sections and nothing you can equip/unequip/compare dynamically.
    - No one can understand how an elite space marine can only sprint 2 meters and then has fatigue during a long time. Same with the car that has only a few seconds boost that does not even serve to climb the smallest mountain.
    - There's no point on most of the dialogue options. Regardless of your selection, its tone and meaning, Shepard always says the same and most of the time not what you're expecting because of your selection.
    - Taking into account the amount of dialogues in the game, more language translations would be appreciated.    … Expand
  17. JornoWiesel
    Feb 28, 2023
    6
    It is really good for the first part of a series and the positives out weight the negatives. You can see that the potential is there for a great game. Highlights are the dialog, dialog option system and the world building. Most of the design is also very excellent and the graphics have not aged to bad. The negatives lie with the weapon collection system, the mako sections and theIt is really good for the first part of a series and the positives out weight the negatives. You can see that the potential is there for a great game. Highlights are the dialog, dialog option system and the world building. Most of the design is also very excellent and the graphics have not aged to bad. The negatives lie with the weapon collection system, the mako sections and the repeating level structures. Most of the time you find way to much different weapons that are not different from each other and the selling part is very tedious. The mako sections are so boring and overly stretched. Most of the main missions had to have a mako part, which is very unnecessary. Mostly the side missions are very repetitive in building structure and design, which leads to boring side missions.
    Overall a very promising start to a franchise. Sadly doesn't hold up that well for multiple play troughs, but it was nice as a one time experience.    … Expand
  18. 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 ❤
  19. vova22379
    Jan 15, 2023
    5
    ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀
  20. 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 :)
  21. Giero
    Jan 4, 2023
    6
    --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
  22. 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
  23. 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
  24. Hyperfailure
    Nov 27, 2022
    7
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  25. 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.
  26. 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
  27. IronWolfFang
    Sep 30, 2022
    7
    Hard game to enjoy now but still not bad, and this game lead to the creation of the best game of all time
  28. EptaEpt
    Sep 13, 2022
    1
    Sorry, but positive feedback is not available in your region. At least until your leadership changes the two-faced policy in their actions and statements.
  29. 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.
  30. 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.
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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 »