Mass Effect 2

 Xbox 360
User Score
8.9

Generally favorable reviews- based on 3743 Ratings

User score distribution:
  1. Positive: 3,340 out of 3743
  2. Mixed: 161 out of 3743
  3. Negative: 242 out of 3743
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  1. CRockwell
    Jan 27, 2010
    10
    Mass Effect 2 is not a perfect game, but a 9/10 rating just does not do it justice. This triumph of storytelling is easily the most enjoyment I'll get from a game in a several year span, the only other coming close being Assassin's Creed II -- though that had a much shorter gameplay value for me when compared to Mass Effect's replay value. It has a personality and Mass Effect 2 is not a perfect game, but a 9/10 rating just does not do it justice. This triumph of storytelling is easily the most enjoyment I'll get from a game in a several year span, the only other coming close being Assassin's Creed II -- though that had a much shorter gameplay value for me when compared to Mass Effect's replay value. It has a personality and memorability that makes playing it for the first time akin to watching a movie from a great director for the first time, and knowing it's destined to become a classic. It has this certain something that rises it above the rest, and will make it go down into my greatest memories of games played list, making it fully justified as a 10/10 in my eyes.… Expand
  2. alek
    Jan 27, 2010
    10
    Playing this game is addicting. With a better story than most sci-fi movies coming out these days, action packed game play, and breathtaking visuals, I can't put it down...
  3. RaxR.
    Jan 27, 2010
    10
    Have just finished (a pre-release copy of) it and all I can say is that from such a strong start it just keeps getting better and better! The last few hours are some of the best of my 20 year gaming life! An amazing game that ALL gamers should play. A new benchmark for "intelligent shooters" (iFPS). Please stop reading these comments & BUY THE GAME now! :-)
  4. Mike
    Jan 27, 2010
    10
    YES! I'm still on the first mission, and I'm giving the game a 10! But come on, its BioWare, does anyone expect anything less than perfection out of them? Even the media keeps giving the game 100s, despite the flaws that would no doubt sink a lesser game. Congratulations BioWare! You are officially the developer of the decade and the Mass Effect trilogy is the IP of the century! YES! I'm still on the first mission, and I'm giving the game a 10! But come on, its BioWare, does anyone expect anything less than perfection out of them? Even the media keeps giving the game 100s, despite the flaws that would no doubt sink a lesser game. Congratulations BioWare! You are officially the developer of the decade and the Mass Effect trilogy is the IP of the century! Please get us ME3 soon (but not to soon), I can't stand the wait. I'll go ahead and give ME3 a 10 right now, just for posterity.… Expand
  5. T34m1nat0r
    Jan 27, 2010
    10
    Such a good game. Good RPG elements, action, music, dialogue, story. It's all there. Best RPG I have ever played.
  6. GraemeE.
    Jan 27, 2010
    10
    Absolutely one of my most anticipated, and now favourite games ever made. It is astounding what Bioware has accomplished with ME2, and how they have pushed both the series and the genre(s) by creating a fast-paced shooter centered around emotional and personalized experiences. I made ME2 my very own, and it was built out of the hours I already invested into ME1. This individual experience Absolutely one of my most anticipated, and now favourite games ever made. It is astounding what Bioware has accomplished with ME2, and how they have pushed both the series and the genre(s) by creating a fast-paced shooter centered around emotional and personalized experiences. I made ME2 my very own, and it was built out of the hours I already invested into ME1. This individual experience that I played out through the game was just awesome. I cannot say enough for Bioware's continued excellence, and realizing a lofty vision. Absolutely 10/10. I love it.… Expand
  7. BuddhaChu
    Jan 26, 2010
    1
    Did I buy a game or a movie. The visuals during the cutscenes are nice. but there's WAY too much dialog and whatnot going on. Less cutscenes, more shooting! Also you run slow as hell in this game like you're stuck in molasses. Not playing the first Mass Effect and the trailers never showed that you're in third person the whole game. I HATE THAT! I'm an FPS kinda guy Did I buy a game or a movie. The visuals during the cutscenes are nice. but there's WAY too much dialog and whatnot going on. Less cutscenes, more shooting! Also you run slow as hell in this game like you're stuck in molasses. Not playing the first Mass Effect and the trailers never showed that you're in third person the whole game. I HATE THAT! I'm an FPS kinda guy and hate the Gears of War fighting mechanic and third person view. This game was a waste of $50 and I wish I could get my money back.… Expand
  8. AussieHarrison
    Jan 26, 2010
    10
    If Mass Effect was the appetizer, ME2 is the tasty, scrumptious main course. Beats the original in every possible way.
  9. David
    Jan 26, 2010
    10
    This is a fantatic game. If you are a fan of the new breed of RPG/Shooter game, pick this up. Mass Effect sets itself apart by creating its own distinct place in the science fiction universe. A must have for 360 owners.
  10. KyleR.
    Jan 26, 2010
    10
    This game is amazing. I love how most critics only dock points for the graphics, but it's the most amazing-looking game I've ever seen. 10 because it's an instant classic.
  11. TerryPhillips
    Jan 26, 2010
    10
    Flat out amazing. Improved in almost every way, some of the RPG elements are downgraded a bit for better action, but the unpolished nature of the original is gone. The story is sublime, the graphics bumped way up, and the tone, story, mood, and visual variety top it all of like a delicious cherry on an amazing game sunday. If you liked the first one, hell if you like RPG, or action with Flat out amazing. Improved in almost every way, some of the RPG elements are downgraded a bit for better action, but the unpolished nature of the original is gone. The story is sublime, the graphics bumped way up, and the tone, story, mood, and visual variety top it all of like a delicious cherry on an amazing game sunday. If you liked the first one, hell if you like RPG, or action with RPG... or if you just like Sci-Fi... Pick this one up!!!!… Expand
  12. ErickO.
    Jan 26, 2010
    10
    It's a rare occasion when a game's sequel improves on everything the original had, and then some, but it happened here in Mass Effect 2. The game went from brilliant to incredible, with the graphics as high end as possible, and facial expressions believable. On top of the graphics, the gameplay has been improved greatly, offering a bigger variety of weapons this time around. It's a rare occasion when a game's sequel improves on everything the original had, and then some, but it happened here in Mass Effect 2. The game went from brilliant to incredible, with the graphics as high end as possible, and facial expressions believable. On top of the graphics, the gameplay has been improved greatly, offering a bigger variety of weapons this time around. Infinite ammo has been removed, but regenerating health is a plus. Overall an amazing game, and one that you shouldn't look past.… Expand
  13. AndrewBylard
    Jan 26, 2010
    10
    There's no such thing as a perfect game, but Mass Effect 2 gets much closer than I've ever seen or thought possible. One of the most satisfying endings I've ever seen in a game.
  14. AnthonyM.
    Jan 26, 2010
    1
    I give a rating of 1 for the simple reason that ME2 will not load any ME1 characters. I completed the game four times (yes, COMPLETE) and looked forward to being able to load them. XBox 360. My ME1 was a "Platinum Hits" edition, which caused problems with the second DLC (the Station addon). Now I have no access to saved games. I give it a 1 ONLY due to the anticipation that it MAY BE a I give a rating of 1 for the simple reason that ME2 will not load any ME1 characters. I completed the game four times (yes, COMPLETE) and looked forward to being able to load them. XBox 360. My ME1 was a "Platinum Hits" edition, which caused problems with the second DLC (the Station addon). Now I have no access to saved games. I give it a 1 ONLY due to the anticipation that it MAY BE a fun game, if I ever get to play it. Starting with a brand new character defeats the anticipation and everything players like me looked forward to. Stayed on hold for 1 hour 47 minutes waiting for support, listening to a "the longest person on hold has been waiting for more than 20 minutes" being said every 2 minutes - finally gave up and hung up. EA support site has bizarre login problems (finally created a new account, which worked the second time). What the hell. BAD LAUNCH for those of us having this issue (and unfortunately for me, probably a minority).… Expand
  15. leejunS.
    Jan 26, 2010
    10
    This game is most incredible RPG of Bioware Corp. I already injoyed first one, but sequel is twice better than that. Bioware knows how to make RPG game. This is realy epic :D
  16. SamA.
    Jan 26, 2010
    10
    Having played through ME1 multiple times I have to say that this game is leaps and bounds better when it comes to the game play. I know I read an early review that docked the game points for relying heavily on the storyline from the original, but I argue that it was necessary since this game is obviously a standing part of the trilogy. Within the first 30 minutes of the game I was sucked Having played through ME1 multiple times I have to say that this game is leaps and bounds better when it comes to the game play. I know I read an early review that docked the game points for relying heavily on the storyline from the original, but I argue that it was necessary since this game is obviously a standing part of the trilogy. Within the first 30 minutes of the game I was sucked in, and after 11 hours of game play I still don't want to return to my home planet.… Expand
  17. DaleL.
    Jan 26, 2010
    10
    Almost speechless! Am I playing a game or a movie? This is what I kept asking myself while blasting my way through loads of baddies and swaggering through a super tight storyline. Playing a game like this hurts a little because they have an ending. I sense multiple play-throughs in my very near future.
  18. AlexanderD.
    Jan 26, 2010
    10
    One of the best sequels in videogame history, Mass Effect 2 comprises outstanding storytelling, compelling gameplay and a state of the art presentation beyond any other game in recent years. Bioware is far ahead of the pack in every department, and Mass Effect 2 undoubtedly proves how much this trilogy might come down to becoming the best Sci Fi themed RPG ever made.
  19. JohannesS.
    Jan 26, 2010
    10
    If you loved the first one, you'll love this even more! If you've never played an RPG, but love shooters with a great story (Half-Life 2 for example) you'll love this! If you prefer hardcore-RPG with tedious micro-management, get Dragon Age instead. P.S. Kelly forever!
  20. BarryP.
    Jan 26, 2010
    10
    Just wow. I never expected BioWare and EA to pull this one off. The original Mass Effect was the best singleplayer game on next gen console next to BioShock and Oblivion and it was breathtaking. The sheer size of the planets and scope in general was second to none. But this, the sequel betters the original in every way. The combat is infinitely superior, feeling more flexible and "there", Just wow. I never expected BioWare and EA to pull this one off. The original Mass Effect was the best singleplayer game on next gen console next to BioShock and Oblivion and it was breathtaking. The sheer size of the planets and scope in general was second to none. But this, the sequel betters the original in every way. The combat is infinitely superior, feeling more flexible and "there", so to speak. All the simple things such as adding ammo count and a proper reticule without the questionable triangle targets just gives the game a smoother feel and more accomplished finish. I have only been playing for 4 hours but this is a genuine masterpiece that should not be overlooked by anyone who owns a 360 or PC. Believe me when I say that this will be a contender for GOTY in every respect.… Expand
  21. JohnP.
    Jan 26, 2010
    2
    I'm sorry but I found the game to be very boring, the story was mediocre at best and I didn't have a fun time playing through this game.
  22. MeganS.
    Jan 26, 2010
    10
    The Game of the Year, guaranteed. One of the most, if not THE most, emotionally engaging video games I have ever played. This game has set a precedent that all future releases will have a burden of measuring up to. Buy now. Play forever.
  23. SheyhanA.
    Jan 26, 2010
    10
    Mass Effect 2 is simply put a masterpiece. You are guaranteed that you will fall in love with one character. The story is gripping, its a tale of love, passion, family, and drive. The sound quality is amazing, it very clear and detailed. The gameplay has been refined and restructured, there's less pausing, and slowing down the intense pace Mass Effect is known for. The voice is Mass Effect 2 is simply put a masterpiece. You are guaranteed that you will fall in love with one character. The story is gripping, its a tale of love, passion, family, and drive. The sound quality is amazing, it very clear and detailed. The gameplay has been refined and restructured, there's less pausing, and slowing down the intense pace Mass Effect is known for. The voice is star-studded, and as usual the best part in Mass Effect 1, the personalization has came back with more options. You really feel that you are a part of a character, and part of a bigger movement. In the end, there's nothing negative to say, this game is nothing short of epic.… Expand
  24. CraigB.
    Jan 26, 2010
    10
    One of the best games of all time - BioWare have truly outdone themselves. A remarkable achievement in game design and one that will be remembered for years to come. This game hails the moment when next generation truly began. Simply incredible.
  25. JessicaR.
    Jan 26, 2010
    0
    Sadly the game is rather uninspired in design and the characters don't have the depth, personality, or intrigue, that Saren, Sovereign, and Wrex has in the first game. Besides the obvious high production values the game doesn't do anything new. It takes away exploration, makes you probe random planets, and gives you a story that is more predictable. What happened to the amazing Sadly the game is rather uninspired in design and the characters don't have the depth, personality, or intrigue, that Saren, Sovereign, and Wrex has in the first game. Besides the obvious high production values the game doesn't do anything new. It takes away exploration, makes you probe random planets, and gives you a story that is more predictable. What happened to the amazing story and characters from Mass Effect? I could even forget the most annoying voice actor ever, Shepard, but this game seems to be reeking it with the high scores because it's higher budgeted. The side quests are better, but the characters don't make you want to continue making choice, the choices have more depth actually. The gameplay is solid, but damn the Third Person Shooter genre has become a chore this gen. And the level design is average, along with the AI.… Expand
  26. davidshepard
    Jan 26, 2010
    10
    best game ever
  27. RonW.
    Jan 26, 2010
    2
    If I wanted a Gears of War, Choose Your Own Adventure book, I'd go to the library. I wouldn't preorder an action RPG. Everything they've done has completely ruined the whole reason I liked this series. Their waiting until release to make these details public just makes it all that much worse. This might as well have been produced by Activision and IW.
  28. GaryL.
    Jan 26, 2010
    10
    Was the wait worth it? Was all the replay of part 1 worth it? ABSOLUTELY. By Far the best game and character development we have been waiting for. Broke up with girlfriend, quit my job. I don't want to waste any more of my time NOT plaing this game....is it a game? A state of mind and being.
  29. RobertOgilvie
    Jan 26, 2010
    10
    Overall, an exceptional game. Interaction and combat are both greatly improved over an already high quality original. Similarly, the handful of irritating flaws from the previous iteration are largely solved.
  30. dc
    Jan 26, 2010
    10
    I liked mass effect but thought its glitches and combat made it a 7 this games improved both of them big time the story is good just wish i could use it on my PS3 instead of 360 because of the multiple discs but that doesnt really bother me to much 10 out of 10 bring on the sequel : )
  31. ChrisC.
    Jan 26, 2010
    10
    I'm expecting this to win GOTY assuming people don't forget it 12 months down the line if they have such a short term memory. The game is utterly brilliant and I have currently sank in about 20 hours and I think I'm ready for the final mission but I'm scared to start it because I don't want to lose my party members. Well most of them. It's pretty cool how I I'm expecting this to win GOTY assuming people don't forget it 12 months down the line if they have such a short term memory. The game is utterly brilliant and I have currently sank in about 20 hours and I think I'm ready for the final mission but I'm scared to start it because I don't want to lose my party members. Well most of them. It's pretty cool how I have an attachment with most of them now and don't want them to die. I know very few games that have made me feel that way. This game is definitley the Uncharted 2 of the 360. A classic.… Expand
  32. Al
    Jan 26, 2010
    0
    Lack of depth, lack of personality, lack of really everthing that makes a core RPG. Mass Effects 2 is what I call a straight up 3rd person shooter. It was a epic fail for me.
  33. MatthewDiMaio
    Jan 26, 2010
    10
    Mass effect 2 improves on the original's problems and combat, while keeping most rpg elements and expanding on this exciting and enriching universe. Mass Effect 2 will be in the top game nominations for Game of The Year
  34. LiquidO.
    Jan 26, 2010
    10
    I just beat this game once and am already on my second play through even though I have MAG and No More Heroes 2 just bought as well. I'm hyped so much for those games but even after putting 34 hours and 23 minutes in my first playthrough I am back for more. If that doesn't indicate how good this game is I don't know what to say.
  35. ArnoldJohn
    Jan 26, 2010
    10
    A complete game from whatever angle you look at it from. Visuals, Sound design, Music, story, characters gameplay, and replay value, it has it all.
  36. RickC.
    Jan 26, 2010
    10
    The shooting mechanics have been made to play like a shooter but their is enough strategic depth to still make it fun. And the story and graphics are amazing.
  37. billyb
    Jan 26, 2010
    10
    This game is absolutely amazing. Its a big jump, and it sucks you in. I loved the first game, and this is even better, and by a huge margin. Simply an awesome game, I dont know what else to say. Theres a million ways to play, and I imported my save from the first game. It plays to your own individual imagination, and its the first series of a game ive ever really felt that way. Just amazing.
  38. MierdadeJ.
    Jan 26, 2010
    1
    The first game was a complete scam by Bioware and also by analysts from around the world. From the second I was not expecting less and so it proved. Only for rent and yet the game is a waste of time and money.
  39. [Anonymous]
    Jan 26, 2010
    8
    Por lo que he jugado, es un gran juego, me ha parecido bastante bastane divertido, pero el problema e sque simplifican mucho los aspectos mas PRG de la primera parte, cosa qeu ami no me gusta. Adema la ausencia de mako y la poca profundidad de los personajes en comparacion de la anterior entrega, asi sta la cosa.
  40. DwonG
    Jan 26, 2010
    10
    When you play this game you will know you are playing a well made and polished game. If you thought uncharted 2 was game of the year quality then this game will go far beyond that if you love a thrilling story a great challenge multiple endings and involving main and side quests this is the perfect game for you
  41. ace02
    Jan 26, 2010
    10
    What was bad or lacking on the first ME,was implemented or fixed on ME 2. Great story,fast-pace action and a cast of vivid and wonderful characters. One of the best Xbox 360 RPG games.
  42. DavidW.
    Jan 26, 2010
    10
    One of the best games I have ever played. ME2 is immersive in a way I've never seen before and tackles some of the darker attributes of humanity. Great game.
  43. BarryD
    Jan 26, 2010
    5
    I was expecting an RPG. Bioware has taken out almost all of the RPG elements and turned it into a TPS in space. Instead of improving upon the criticisms of the first game they have just outright removed those elements. The shooter aspect of the game is greatly improved from the first but has taken the front role in the game. In many ways I find this is a step backwards in the series with I was expecting an RPG. Bioware has taken out almost all of the RPG elements and turned it into a TPS in space. Instead of improving upon the criticisms of the first game they have just outright removed those elements. The shooter aspect of the game is greatly improved from the first but has taken the front role in the game. In many ways I find this is a step backwards in the series with most of your time spent accumulating alies. Closing note: This game has very little replay value. It is essentially the exact same game each play through. And considering you can beat it in under 20 hours I would suggest it as a rental. Also don't play this if you haven't played the first.… Expand
  44. AliJ
    Jan 26, 2010
    0
    Unfortunately it doesn't quite live up to the hype. The game design is average, the gameplay is average, the pressentation, is great, but I think we've seen it all before. Ultimately Mass Effect 2 is more cinematic, but it doesn't bring anything new to the table other than that it's a TPS with some worthless decision making.
  45. DavidH.
    Jan 26, 2010
    10
    Absolutely amazing game. Better than the first one in every way - and the first one was one of my favorite games of all time. This is a labor of love for every sci-fan out there. And even if you don't like sci-fi, this game is so fast paced, cinematic and well designed you'd be cheating yourself not to at least give it a shot. Thank you Bioware!
  46. MichaelH.
    Jan 26, 2010
    10
    Your hearing it hear first GOTY 2010 is Mass Effect 2. I've been playing since 12:30 am it is now 8:42 and im hooked. Everything that you didn't like or had any problem with in the first Mass Effect has been changed, retooled ,and made alot better. Excuse me i Have ME2 withdraw if I take too long of a break from playing
  47. CarlB.
    Jan 26, 2010
    10
    As brilliant for RPG's as Bayonetta is for it's genre, Mass Effect 2's fast pacing, tight gameplay mechanics, deep storyline, sharp graphics, and complex details all make for a gaming experience that sets the standard for 2010.
  48. HunterF.
    Jan 26, 2010
    10
    This is the game of the year hands down and it's only January the art direction in this game is superb, and fans of video games in general won't be disappointed! The best game I've ever played hands down. This is a must-play for any one with an xbox 360. Games like this are the reasons we all love gaming!
  49. SamJ.
    Jan 26, 2010
    10
    Truly an amazing game with unmatched atmosphere and cinematic appeal. Every conversation feels like a cutscene, every mission you complete feels like it brings you closer to your goals. The story, characters, dialog, design and gameplay are all magnificent. If there's one game to buy for your 360, it's Mass Effect 2.
  50. TaylorH.
    Jan 26, 2010
    10
    From within the first few minutes of booting up the game, it is apparent how much work went into this game. Incredible visuals, NO graphical "texture loads", fast-paced combat that provides more versatility than you usually know what to do with, and a storyline that makes 90% of any other Xbox 360 (or PS3 for that matter) pale in comparison. Mix in a deep customization option, and events From within the first few minutes of booting up the game, it is apparent how much work went into this game. Incredible visuals, NO graphical "texture loads", fast-paced combat that provides more versatility than you usually know what to do with, and a storyline that makes 90% of any other Xbox 360 (or PS3 for that matter) pale in comparison. Mix in a deep customization option, and events that carry over from the first game into the second, and you get on epic adventure that you will want to experience again and again and again. 4 play-thrus were needed on Mass Effect 1 for me. With Mass Effect 2, even 6 probably wont be enough. Epic gameplay. Tightly polished graphics, audio and storytelling. Engaging characters and memorable events. 10/10, without a doubt.… Expand
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Awards & Rankings

1
#1 Best Xbox 360 Game of 2010
2
#2 Most Discussed Xbox 360 Game of 2010
8
#8 Most Shared Xbox 360 Game of 2010

Critic Reviews

All reviews »
Metascore
96

Universal acclaim - based on 98 Critic Reviews

Critic score distribution:
  1. Positive: 98 out of 98
  2. Mixed: 0 out of 98
  3. Negative: 0 out of 98
  1. Official Xbox Magazine
    95
    Mass Effect 2 overcomes its few gameplay weaknesses with a fantastic weave of dynamic combat, lavish presentation, and engaging character and weapon customization. But for all the myriad improvements that make Mass Effect 2's visuals so appealing and its combat so exhilarating, it's ultimately the way it moves us that makes it so memorable. [Feb 2010, p.56]
  2. games(TM)
    100
    Despite all of the ways Mass Effect 2 is more engaging to play and explore, after 35 remarkable hours it was the characters that stayed with us… Game of the year in January? Oh, go on then. [Feb 2010, p.112]
  3. X-ONE Magazine UK
    100
    Both an astonishing RPG and confident shooter, Mass Effect 2 is daring, shocking and often awe-inspiring in its use of choice. This is the future of storytelling in videogames. [Issue#, p.85]
See all critic reviews »