Mass Effect 3: Citadel

 Xbox 360
User Score
8.2

Generally favorable reviews- based on 214 Ratings

User score distribution:
  1. Positive: 174 out of 214
  2. Mixed: 13 out of 214
  3. Negative: 27 out of 214

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  1. Nikola8
    Mar 6, 2013
    10
    This is, by far, the best DLC for ME3, and the second best of the franchise (first is shadow broker). This does so many things right. No spoilers, but the DLC can be conveniently divided into four distinct areas:

    1) There is a side story arc that will take ~2-5 hours to complete. The story is interesting (especially since it doesn't involve Reapers, Cerberus, or Collectors (I won't    This is, by far, the best DLC for ME3, and the second best of the franchise (first is shadow broker). This does so many things right. No spoilers, but the DLC can be conveniently divided into four distinct areas:

    1) There is a side story arc that will take ~2-5 hours to complete. The story is interesting (especially since it doesn't involve Reapers, Cerberus, or Collectors (I won't say more in order to avoid spoilers). This doesn't just feel like a filler story, but is rather thought out. Characters from previous games are brought back, and many background stories (such as the First Contact War) are given more context. 2) The second component of the DLC is similar to the Hearthfire expansion of Skyrim (although not as involved by any means). This allows Shepard to obtain and customize an apartment on the Citadel. Kind of a fun experience, and it allows for Admiral Anderson's background story to be more deeply investigated.
    3) The third component of the DLC revolves around the fact that it opens an entirely new district in the Citadel for exploration. There are many things to do, but the most notable are the Casino, Video Arcade, and Combat Simulator. The casino has a variety of games to play to gamble some of your in game credits. The video arcade has a handful of simple games to play. The combat simulator is one of the best additions in the DLC. It resembles the Pinnacle Station DLC in this regard from the first game, but is much more customizable it draws heavily from the multiplayer of the game. This mode allows you to play with squad members from ME1 and ME2 which is awesome.
    4) While not a separate component, this DLC lets you interact with characters from other games throughout fighting along side them and interacting with them. Characters such as Miranda, Jack, and Thane, will allow for additional romance options (if you romanced them in ME2). Final thoughts this DLC is amazing. The small story doesn't feel wasted. The extra district in the Citadel is fun to explore (especially the combat simulator). The apartment design is probably the least appealing part of this, and that is simply because it is so simplistic. The interactions with your crew- both past and current are very well done. Overall, the DLC is excellent. The writing is also very good and inserts a LOT of humor (which is a welcome relief to the sometimes tense mood of the game). I would highly recommend it and even though it is the most expensive DLC, it is by far worth the $15 asking price.    … Expand
  2. Crichtonrygel
    Mar 9, 2013
    8
    While I didn't hate the ending to Mass Effect 3 as much as everyone else I will say this is a more fitting conclusion to the trilogy (and best activated as far into the game as possible). It's also very meta-heavy and the humor completely off-sets the tone of Mass Effect 3's core story and will obviously not be to everyone's taste. Citadel's split into two parts: a main three-part missionWhile I didn't hate the ending to Mass Effect 3 as much as everyone else I will say this is a more fitting conclusion to the trilogy (and best activated as far into the game as possible). It's also very meta-heavy and the humor completely off-sets the tone of Mass Effect 3's core story and will obviously not be to everyone's taste. Citadel's split into two parts: a main three-part mission (which can take 1-2 hours to complete) then an epilogue which can feature all the surviving Normandy crew from the first two Mass Effect games. Just spending time with these characters again made the $15 price worth it for me and the only down-side is I don't really want to go back to the game proper after completing Citadel.… Expand
  3. Denver10827
    Mar 6, 2013
    10
    Fantastic. There's no other way to put it. This is probably, if not one of, my favorite dlc of all time. Now let me just say this first, I a a HUGE mass effect fanboy. The hilarious jokes and subtle references, an interesting plot, and a chance to have one final farewell with all of your aquadmates wraps up into a beautiful package that any fan of mass effect should not hesitate toFantastic. There's no other way to put it. This is probably, if not one of, my favorite dlc of all time. Now let me just say this first, I a a HUGE mass effect fanboy. The hilarious jokes and subtle references, an interesting plot, and a chance to have one final farewell with all of your aquadmates wraps up into a beautiful package that any fan of mass effect should not hesitate to buy. I honestly almost cried because of the bttter sweet ending scenes, and am sure any other fan of the series will do so as well. The add on also has tons of extra content that extend beyond the main storyline, like your own new house, an entire new section of the ciadel (including a new bar, arcade center, and a combat simulator), some one on one time with some of the series best characters, surprise appearances from characters of past games, and hell, you even get to have a memorial service for Thane, something that many thought was missing from the main game. One final thing, many people think that the whole concept of the dlc is ridiculous, but i don'. Can you imagine if you were in shepard's shhoes? Hell yes you'd nead a little shore leave. If shepard isn't thinking straight, he's no good in the war. Just my opinion. Bottom line, buy this, you won't regret it.… Expand
  4. Persason
    Mar 7, 2013
    10
    Wow... Really. This is a DLC that should have been there in the game from the start, then people would not have been so picky with the ending. This gave us fans closure and time we wanted with out squadmates. I would like to point out that EVERY SINGLE squad member that has survived in the previous games are with in this DLC. What a fantastic piece of work Bioware, I forgive you for thatWow... Really. This is a DLC that should have been there in the game from the start, then people would not have been so picky with the ending. This gave us fans closure and time we wanted with out squadmates. I would like to point out that EVERY SINGLE squad member that has survived in the previous games are with in this DLC. What a fantastic piece of work Bioware, I forgive you for that ending :).

    This DLC was very fun to play through and it also took me about 4 hours to finish it fully. There are lots of Easter eggs and historical moments in the DLC so don't rush through it.

    10/10. It really stirred up some feelings inside me and now I am going to play the whole series over again. This DLC is arguably one of the best Mass Effect DLCs ever made its on par with Liar of the Shadow Broker from ME2. GET IT!    … Expand
  5. Greenmember
    Mar 6, 2013
    9
    Not only the best Mass Effect DLC, but just some of the best released add on content period. Bioware has collected it's universe of characters for one final hurrah and it's the best way to go out. An intriguing story that only gets better from when it starts, Mass Effect at it's finest. Any fan of the series will love this.
  6. StUnNeR_H2K
    Mar 7, 2013
    10
    This DLC is a true fan service. Not much more, but a good one. When Bioware said it pulled in the writing team on this it did. All through the game characters/NPC make references to past events or internet meme's. The story/plot is decent, but doesn't add much value to the overall main story of the game unless you view new item mods/weapons as important.

    My only complaint... why was    This DLC is a true fan service. Not much more, but a good one. When Bioware said it pulled in the writing team on this it did. All through the game characters/NPC make references to past events or internet meme's. The story/plot is decent, but doesn't add much value to the overall main story of the game unless you view new item mods/weapons as important.

    My only complaint... why was something with all these features not included at release? Have a hub like this was a crucial part of the first two games, and this would have only made the release version of ME3 even better. Not to mention they could have easily branched off more DLC from the Citadel location.

    Anyone who has played all the Mass Effect games... with multiple play throughs, this is must have DLC.    … Expand
  7. Travasourus
    Mar 6, 2013
    10
    The Citadel DLC is a must have for all Mass Effect fans. You should buy this DLC for no other reason than the amazing "One Liners" that flow so effortlessly from the characters. The script is great, the story is legitmatley fun and is reminiscent of the original Die Hard... only youre in space, and have a badass crew with you? It makes sense when you play it. This DLC contains someThe Citadel DLC is a must have for all Mass Effect fans. You should buy this DLC for no other reason than the amazing "One Liners" that flow so effortlessly from the characters. The script is great, the story is legitmatley fun and is reminiscent of the original Die Hard... only youre in space, and have a badass crew with you? It makes sense when you play it. This DLC contains some back-plot Lore of the ME universe as you casually search video or audio-log historical archives that cover everything from the Krogan being dismissed from the council, the Turian/Human First Contact War, to the Asari first finding the Citadel, and all videos are "primary sources", so its not just a narrative with a teacher telling a story. I'll summerize, this DLC is very thoughtful and well put together You may not think it's possible, but I believe it's a DLC that will restore faith in Bioware after the tragically written original ending of the vanilla ME3, I'm excited to re-play the Citadel DLC with different characters.

    PS Though to my understanding, this DLC does not directly affect the ending, it certainly does make an impact on it. When Garrus says "I'll meet you at the bar", i'm positive that the house-party setup was the bar he was talking about.... or, shepard died, he did meet Garrus, and this DLC is actually his afterlife?    … Expand
  8. Redfordsto
    Mar 6, 2013
    10
    This is fan service at its best. I applaud Bioware for finding a common ground. They recognized the love their fans have for their characters and in turn want to give the fans what they want but at the same time don't want to sacrifice their artistic vision. How to give their fans more of the interpersonal relationships, quell some of the missing interactions, and make a compelling dlc? IThis is fan service at its best. I applaud Bioware for finding a common ground. They recognized the love their fans have for their characters and in turn want to give the fans what they want but at the same time don't want to sacrifice their artistic vision. How to give their fans more of the interpersonal relationships, quell some of the missing interactions, and make a compelling dlc? I think they found it here. There's two parts to this dlc: a mission and the relationship building. Plus numerous side gams including an arena to practice for multiplayer and for completionists to conquer. It's important to mention, the area doesn't steal locations from multiplayer, but instead offers unique locales and and challenges. The mission is excellent: packed with humor, witty banter, new enemies, and new environments. It's fairly linear and slightly cliche, but pokes fun at itself. After playing through each game in the series multiple times, listening to the discourse on the final mission and controlling Shep felt like being among old friend that I probably won't be seeing again. It's the perfect end to the trilogy and even though I'm not happy with the actual ending, I feel like I can put Commander Shephard and his squad to rest and move on to a new story and a new universe... After about 6 more play throughs...… Expand
  9. harbalck2
    Mar 8, 2013
    10
    This is fanservice, pure and simple. But it is done with such care that it is impossible to not walk away from this DLC feeling sentimental over all the great times you as a player have had with the game. It contains not only the funniest moments in the entirety of Mass Effect 3, and possibly the entire Mass Effect series, but also the greatest tearjerkers.This DLC is BioWare showing,This is fanservice, pure and simple. But it is done with such care that it is impossible to not walk away from this DLC feeling sentimental over all the great times you as a player have had with the game. It contains not only the funniest moments in the entirety of Mass Effect 3, and possibly the entire Mass Effect series, but also the greatest tearjerkers.This DLC is BioWare showing, despite the ending fiasco, that they do still love the series, and the fans that brought them this far. This is, at last, the ending that the greatest trilogy in gaming history deserves.… Expand
  10. UkuLele
    Mar 17, 2013
    10
    There it is, the last Mass Effect 3 DLC. After it was revealed it had quite high expectations, because though I am now satisfied with the Extended Cut Ending the Omega and Leviathan DLCs didn't really knock my socks off and I felt like I wasted money. What can I say It was really worth it. I don't want to spoiler, so: The story of the DLC is very much of a sidestory, with no connectionsThere it is, the last Mass Effect 3 DLC. After it was revealed it had quite high expectations, because though I am now satisfied with the Extended Cut Ending the Omega and Leviathan DLCs didn't really knock my socks off and I felt like I wasted money. What can I say It was really worth it. I don't want to spoiler, so: The story of the DLC is very much of a sidestory, with no connections to the Reapers Cerberus etc. What sounds like a blemish is in reality a feature: The DLCs doesn't take itself too serious and you spend much of your time laughing and giggling about many little jokes and hints (especially after the main DLC storyline).

    It felt like the developers could now finally implement all the small little details in the game they wanted to do in the main game, but had no time for. Only for this reason you really feel passion put into this final chapter the Citadel DLCs is worth buying for a Mass Effect Fan.    … Expand
  11. yurtyybomb
    Mar 6, 2013
    10
    Closure. That is the one word to describe this DLC. It's incredible.

    Simply put, this is the best ME DLC. If you are a true fan of the Mass Effect series, stop reading right now. You will clearly love this DLC. If you others need convincing, read on. Citadel takes on the core aspects of Lair of the Shadow Broker and extrapolates them. LOTSB followed a path of a story, and then a new    Closure. That is the one word to describe this DLC. It's incredible.

    Simply put, this is the best ME DLC. If you are a true fan of the Mass Effect series, stop reading right now. You will clearly love this DLC. If you others need convincing, read on.

    Citadel takes on the core aspects of Lair of the Shadow Broker and extrapolates them. LOTSB followed a path of a story, and then a new hub and some new information about squad members to impress you afterwards. Many ME fans cite it as their favorite DLC.

    Well, Citadel takes what LOTSB did, puts on a less serious face, and goes deeper. A lot deeper.

    Citadel gives you about a 2-3 hour story that does not include Cerberus or the Reapers, which is a welcome change. It is also not super serious. That said, it is probably some of the most satisfaction I've gotten with the series from a gameplay standpoint. The final boss encounter is arguably the best in the entire series, and varies depending on a certain permutation that I won't spoil. The areas you visit, despite all being on the Citadel, are very varied and help to open up the Citadel in a way that we haven't seen since Mass Effect 1. You get a sense of the scope and importance of the Citadel.

    But that's not all. After the story, the real meat of the DLC begins. You get a new (beautiful) apartment, you interact with every single one of your squad members from ME1-3, and the dialogue is legitimately funny all the way through. I was most impressed by the fact that the closure isn't only limited to the party you throw for all of your friends. You interact with them multiple times OUTSIDE of just the party, which really impressed me. This DLC is a 4GB download in a good way it's not cutscenes that take up a lot of resources. It is actual, in game, in engine content and interactions with the characters you love and boy, does it provide closure.

    I thought Bioware had lost some of its mojo what with the ME3 endings, the "ok" DLCs (especially Omega and their track record outside of LOTSB was not incredible, either) but man... this is a LOT of content. You talk to all of your buddies many times over. You get probably the single most memorable lines and encounters in the entire series, all in one place. You get a new area of the Citadel with various arcade games, a casino, and a single player version of the multiplayer offerings. There is a lot of stuff here. Is it worth $15? Hell yes. There is no doubt. If you're a big Mass Effect fan, this DLC is worth well more than that. If you're a person who completed the series and liked it, but wasn't a super fan, this is still right on point for you. Get it. It is perhaps the best DLC I've ever played. It serves the exact purpose of what DLC is supposed to do tell stories that the main story couldn't. The main offering couldn't because this is literally about 5-8 hours of character interactions, in sequence.    … Expand
  12. dragonbourne1
    Mar 6, 2013
    10
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. So Shepard crew are ordered to Citadel for shore leave. Once there you get an appartment (wont say from who). After which your thrust in to a plot in an attempt on Shepards life. Eventually the whole crew is involved. It turns out Shepard has an evil clone. So the story was pretty good. I found it in some ways reminisant of old Star Trek's good Kirk bad Kirk. The gun play was for the most part adiquite. The humor was so poking fun at everyone especially Shepard. It did not however detract from the story though. After all is said and done you can throw a party as well as mod your new house which you can revisit at any time. There are other things to do on this portion of Citadel. Casino, arcade, combat simulator and some mini missions. All of which I found to be a nice distraction of the glumness of the main story. No glitches or bugs that I saw on my playthrough. It also felt like a fond farewell episode of a well loved tv show. Very nice but kinda sad. I would very much recomend this. Its also reasonably priced for the size which is almost 4 gigs.… Expand
  13. RogerWilco2099
    Mar 18, 2013
    10
    Bioware have eventually gone back to what they do best and remembered that this was a Space Opera first and an action shooter second. The focus has shifted back to the squad and the relationships that players built up over the trilogy and has given some closure to those that needed it. This is a less serious DLC with tongue-in-cheek humour which Bioware knows how to do very well. ThingsBioware have eventually gone back to what they do best and remembered that this was a Space Opera first and an action shooter second. The focus has shifted back to the squad and the relationships that players built up over the trilogy and has given some closure to those that needed it. This is a less serious DLC with tongue-in-cheek humour which Bioware knows how to do very well. Things like the arena gives the game a reason to keep playing and lets you stay with your Shepard a little longer. The plot was entertaining with lots of little nods and new facts and features for the player. A beautiful end to Shepard's story and possible the best DLC to date.… Expand
  14. Narcysst
    Mar 9, 2013
    10
    This DLC, best played, I think, after you've already finished the game, is one of the best ME missions. Bittersweet, because you know what lies in the future for the crew but there's so much joy actually while playing. For those of us who valued the crew and their relationships to Shep, this final time with them is funny, sad, exciting and deep. It seems pretty clear that Bioware paidThis DLC, best played, I think, after you've already finished the game, is one of the best ME missions. Bittersweet, because you know what lies in the future for the crew but there's so much joy actually while playing. For those of us who valued the crew and their relationships to Shep, this final time with them is funny, sad, exciting and deep. It seems pretty clear that Bioware paid special attention to the forums, and decided to give us something that would finish Mass Effect in the kind of way that they actually couldn't 1 year ago. I felt good after the EC ending, but found Omega and Leviathan okay but not great. Now with Citadel, I think that I've had closure on the greatest fictional series I've ever played.… Expand
  15. Bregevgen2
    Mar 8, 2013
    10
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. Mass Effect was the first series I fell in love to the grave. It was very unstandard view at all RPG genre. Very simplify, more shooter then role-playing, but very fascinating and thinked over. I loved every character, every scene and story. "Citadel" is the best DLC ever ME saw. You have last chance to see your friends and beloved. After all it shows what do Shepard himself. Clone couldn't replace him Shepard is formulated by people who surround him, not pathos and epic. Garrus, Liara, Tali... It's impossible to imagine main hero without of anyone of them. It will be very sad without him, but I believe, that Bioware will make new main hero nothing worse then Shepard. In that case I'm sure everybody will play and replay ME like original trilogy.… Expand
  16. kafkaten
    Mar 11, 2013
    9
    If you fell in love with these characters like I did, since way back in ME1... then you need to get this DLC. The combat is ok... but just ok. It's the story and getting one last chance to roll with Garrus, Wrex and the gang.

    Oh, and it's funny! Actual, real laughs and not just by videogame standards.
  17. Mwatuangi
    Mar 6, 2013
    9
    See my full review here: http://www.gameinformer.com/blogs/members/b/lmvalle_blog/archive/2013/03/06/mass-effect-3-citadel-review-shepard-39-s-swan-song-is-nostalgic-and-polarizing.aspx

    Overall, ME3's final story DLC is arguably one of the best; despite having a lackluster storyline, and a tone that completely contradicts the main campaign and theme of ME 3, Bioware pulls out all the    See my full review here: http://www.gameinformer.com/blogs/members/b/lmvalle_blog/archive/2013/03/06/mass-effect-3-citadel-review-shepard-39-s-swan-song-is-nostalgic-and-polarizing.aspx

    Overall, ME3's final story DLC is arguably one of the best; despite having a lackluster storyline, and a tone that completely contradicts the main campaign and theme of ME 3, Bioware pulls out all the stops and focuses on what matters most: the characters we've grown to love over the years, with standout performances, countless witty in-jokes, references, and nods that seasoned veterans of the series will appreciate. Chock full of hours of content not including variations depending on play style players will undoubtedly get their money's worth.    … Expand
  18. Lieber
    Mar 9, 2013
    8
    Well here we are, at the end of the Mass Effect Trilogy. If you have followed these characters since the first Mass Effect, Citadel gives you a final chance to say goodbye, through a fun two-three hour mission, tons of character interaction and romance, as well as Casino and Arcade mini-games and a very enjoyable Combat Arena.

    The DLC suffers from the main game really. The tone is    Well here we are, at the end of the Mass Effect Trilogy. If you have followed these characters since the first Mass Effect, Citadel gives you a final chance to say goodbye, through a fun two-three hour mission, tons of character interaction and romance, as well as Casino and Arcade mini-games and a very enjoyable Combat Arena.

    The DLC suffers from the main game really. The tone is really comedic and doesn't really fit with the rest of the game, but you can always treat this as something that happens after the ending, which puts those issues to ease. Overall, the DLC is well worth the 15 dollars for the ton of quality content you get out of it.

    It's been a good ride.    … Expand
  19. EABanBoy
    Mar 12, 2013
    10
    This must have been made post MF3 ending because this is a gigantic step up, its what people truly loved about the series; it's characters. No reapers, no Cerberus, no foolish gun game play; just well written dialogue.
  20. darthtodd
    Mar 13, 2013
    10
    This is a great way to end the Mass Effect trilogy. I really enjoyed the fact that they focused on story and relationships more in this expansion than in previous releases. Kudos to Bioware!
  21. MisterMittens
    Mar 7, 2013
    9
    Citadel is an upbeat last hurrah for the Mass Effect trilogy. Its large and varied amount of content sets a precedent for DLC in a non-sandbox game. Anyone still upset that the ending wasn't what they'd dreamt up probably won't be able to enjoy this adventure, which reminds us why we fell in love with Mass Effect to begin with.
  22. peabuddie
    Mar 8, 2013
    5
    I guess I'm in the minority here, so far anyway. I can barely give this a 5 but I'm giving and extra point for effort. I have a feeling that the individuals who are posting 10's are quite a bit younger than I am and easily impressed. Had this come out a loooong time ago, I would have loved it as a nice addition, but still not 15 bucks worth to me anyway. When your totally engaged in the MEI guess I'm in the minority here, so far anyway. I can barely give this a 5 but I'm giving and extra point for effort. I have a feeling that the individuals who are posting 10's are quite a bit younger than I am and easily impressed. Had this come out a loooong time ago, I would have loved it as a nice addition, but still not 15 bucks worth to me anyway. When your totally engaged in the ME experience (and I've played the whole series through 6 times) the additional character interaction would have been kinda cool. So down to it. Here is what you get for your money. 1. a short combat mission which is mildly entertaining for as long as it lasts. It has a twist, which frankly would have been nice to see really played out further, much further. 2. a whole lot of interaction with team mates, which in the middle of the ME moment would have been good, but going back just to play this dlc is kinda like too little too late, like that person you've been wanting to get with for a long time and you finally do and there is just no chemistry. So the interactions are okay, and add a little fun but would have been much better like a year ago or even six months ago, in the heat of the moment so to speak. Most of us have moved on. 3. you get a combat arena. This last point is probably the best part of the pack. It adds some value that is lacking elsewhere. 4. You get tons of mini-games. Ok. But in my head Shepherd is focused on saving the universe from imminent destruction, earth is occupied and going down fast, I don't know about your Shepherd, but my Shepherd isn't stopping in the arcade to wile away the hours just now. I'm not one for mini-games anyway, unless I'm really bored. But some of you may get your kicks hanging around in the virtual arcade with a digital PC. You get a new weapon (not impressed) and I think 2 new mods. That's it. Not a ten, no way, no how, not.… Expand
  23. Auritone
    Mar 12, 2013
    2
    Didn't honestly think Bioware could sink any lower, but this atrocious piece of fan fiction is simply abysmal. Think ME2 and 3 was filled with plotholes, retcons, deux ex machinas, and contrived crap. Think again!
    The Citadel DLC is Bioware on full retard to a degree where they completely rip off Steven Sommers' The Mummy Returns. I wish I was kidding... THE MUMMY RETURNS! STEVEN    Didn't honestly think Bioware could sink any lower, but this atrocious piece of fan fiction is simply abysmal. Think ME2 and 3 was filled with plotholes, retcons, deux ex machinas, and contrived crap. Think again!
    The Citadel DLC is Bioware on full retard to a degree where they completely rip off Steven Sommers' The Mummy Returns. I wish I was kidding... THE MUMMY RETURNS! STEVEN SOMMERS!
    Is the pit Bioware has fallen into completely bottomless?    … Expand
  24. Kenmei
    Apr 16, 2013
    6
    This was a decent DLC but it didn't live up to my expectations after hearing so much about it. The combat portion and included story was a bit lackluster but not as terrible as I expected. On the other hand, the "party" portion that has alot of people worked up about was not as good as I was expecting. Sure there was a bit of humor here and it's obvious that you need to have everyone thereThis was a decent DLC but it didn't live up to my expectations after hearing so much about it. The combat portion and included story was a bit lackluster but not as terrible as I expected. On the other hand, the "party" portion that has alot of people worked up about was not as good as I was expecting. Sure there was a bit of humor here and it's obvious that you need to have everyone there to really enjoy it but the fan service promised by every review I've seen so far was not great. I expected fully on cutscene dialogue's with all the past characters but there were bits and pieces here and there for characters and the only real cutscene you got was from your lover in game at the end. I'd go so far as to say the banter in the combat portion was the best part of the entire DLC, even if it did seem very out of place. However, even with all the negative I've said, this is still the best piece of DLC in the game and does help give these characters a nice send off before Bioware leaves them in the dust going forward. I feel like this DLC can be compared to the overall series: it had alot of potential and alot of promise to be one of the best but little things keep it from being the best it can be.… Expand
  25. Tiller828
    Apr 2, 2013
    6
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. I spent my entire mass effect career avoiding relations with any of the other crew members (We are trying to save the universe after all) and in the last DLC they make me get drunk and have sex with one of the crew members (Javik)? Very disappointed, but the DLC did have a lot of content.… Expand
  26. kimsballs
    Mar 22, 2013
    2
    $15 dollars for a few hours game play? Get a $5 Xbox live arcade game instead. This took me half an evening after work to beat. Cheaper to go to the movies and get a large popcorn and soda in IMAx. That's what happens when EA takes over though.
  27. PanDaZZiaN
    Apr 20, 2013
    0
    this game is good but i don't get the point where to go the game give me too little information for me to continue playing and there should be more shooting
  28. rawrieatchu
    Apr 29, 2013
    3
    I didn't like ME3, and I desperately wanted this DLC to bring something back to the game for me.

    It did not. The storyline to this 'interesting' DLC was horrendous, the main villain was the most laughably bad thing Bioware has done in it's entire career. The entire point to the DLC however is the time you get to spend with your companions, and this is all, for the most part,    I didn't like ME3, and I desperately wanted this DLC to bring something back to the game for me.

    It did not.

    The storyline to this 'interesting' DLC was horrendous, the main villain was the most laughably bad thing Bioware has done in it's entire career.

    The entire point to the DLC however is the time you get to spend with your companions, and this is all, for the most part, written abysmally. The characters come off saying things that I had gotten the feeling that they would never say in their entire lives, along with the startling change in animation that drew me out of the experience.

    I would never have thought that some of these characters would agree to just drop what they were doing in order to throw a party in the current chaos that is the galaxy, but there it is; Samara drinking by the bar, Tali fantasizing about a threesome with Shepard and Garrus, and so on.

    The only part of this I felt was even mildly tolerable was Thanes romance, if you can even call it that, considering the circumstances.

    It is also a nasty price of 1200Microsoft points, or $15, The most expensive yet for some bad writing that feels like it was written by teenage girls trying their best to write quirky fanfiction.

    Bad DLC coming from a lazy bought out company raking in as much cash as they can for their masters. I'm heartbroken that it came to this.    … Expand
  29. biofan4eva
    May 5, 2013
    1
    This DLC is the very definition of pandering
  30. AshaiTides
    May 26, 2013
    10
    Probably the best $15 I ever spent on DLC. The amount of content is vast; I spent two straight days on it.

    You get a very interesting story with lots of funny moments, a huge side area with games (including a combat simulator done right this time that'll keep you busy for several hours) and join-ups for the whole crew, another important opportunity for multiple join-ups with everyone,    Probably the best $15 I ever spent on DLC. The amount of content is vast; I spent two straight days on it.

    You get a very interesting story with lots of funny moments, a huge side area with games (including a combat simulator done right this time that'll keep you busy for several hours) and join-ups for the whole crew, another important opportunity for multiple join-ups with everyone, and the best writing of the DLC. The humor just keeps coming throughout, and is extremely well-done. The last scene gives great closure.

    You need to get this.    … Expand
  31. Apotts
    Mar 19, 2013
    9
    This DLC is fun, simply because it is what it is. It doesn't try to take itself serious, and it gives most fans exactly what they need in order to say goodbye to this outstanding series. The teamwork and camaraderie that we experience during the all too short Citadel mission is simply wonderful, and although I do feel that the $15 asking price is a bit expensive, I can't say I regretThis DLC is fun, simply because it is what it is. It doesn't try to take itself serious, and it gives most fans exactly what they need in order to say goodbye to this outstanding series. The teamwork and camaraderie that we experience during the all too short Citadel mission is simply wonderful, and although I do feel that the $15 asking price is a bit expensive, I can't say I regret spending it, since this DLC gave me what I needed in order to properly say goodbye to my beloved teammates.… Expand
  32. f8tal1ties
    May 29, 2013
    10
    Best DLC I've ever played for a game hands down. Sweet send off to the trilogy as well. I absolutely loved every second of this! Side story was good, but the fan service that Bioware provided with this DLC just shows how much the care about the fans!
  33. Oxcart
    Mar 23, 2013
    9
    It's really rather a shame that this is to be the last ME3 DLC; they've finally managed to hit their stride. Leviathan was an example of great storytelling. Omega, high creativity. Citadel isn't fantastic storytelling but it is creative. But, more than that, it's a cheeseburger for Mass Effect 3: not highly nutritious or haute cuisine, but delicious and enjoyable. Make no mistake, CitadelIt's really rather a shame that this is to be the last ME3 DLC; they've finally managed to hit their stride. Leviathan was an example of great storytelling. Omega, high creativity. Citadel isn't fantastic storytelling but it is creative. But, more than that, it's a cheeseburger for Mass Effect 3: not highly nutritious or haute cuisine, but delicious and enjoyable. Make no mistake, Citadel isn't about epic storytelling or redefining genres. Citadel is about fun, pure and simple. For a few glorious hours, Mass Effect 3 sheds its cloak of gloom and galactic doom to just kick back and have fun. For the first time ever, you don't fight with the two squaddies of your choice, you get the whole team. Military discipline is right out the window as your team bickers, one-liners, and plows through the opposition. The writing is bang on, such that the chatter of your team, which could easily become annoying, is fresh, fun, and reminiscent of the best buddy films and military comedies. The new enemies of the DLC are engaging and well-balanced. The plot is, yes, a little hackneyed, but it's forgivable and gives a new slant on ME enemies all around (after all, haven't you had your fill of splinter groups yet?). Plus, you might see Wrex in a tux...what Mass Effect fan wouldn't look forward to that? Much like the Pinnacle Station DLC in the original ME, Citadel installs an infinite trainer that lets you practice, field-test weapon and armor configurations, and see how hard you can push yourself. Best of all, though, for the first time ever you can enjoy some downtime with your team. Have a party, enjoy some time off. Hey, you've earned it; you're out there saving the galaxy and all, so surely you've racked up some vacation time. There are some shortcomings in this pack, primarily its length. The entire "campaign" can be wrapped in about five hours, but there's easily another few hours' worth of content that's introduced alongside the campaign. If you're unwilling to suspend the ambiance of the game and just plunge into some pointless fun, you'll be unhappy with this pack; get this only if you want to have some lighthearted fun in the Mass Effect universe. But for those who want to have a lot of laughs with the Normandy crew, this is the way to go, no question. You will laugh yourself sick. A solid nine out of ten for the funloving comedy that is the final Mass Effect 3 DLC.… Expand
  34. dherrick
    Mar 26, 2013
    10
    Not the most serious DLC, but I enjoyed it because we already know how it all ends anyway. Story was fun and the additions to the citadel were worth exploring. The Armax Arena was the best part, it was fun to experiment with different weapons without the worry of being stuck with a bad gun for an entire mission.
  35. Lord_Blacknemp
    Jul 8, 2013
    9
    Just great. At times it has a great deal of comedy, but without abusing it, leading to a conclusion that, at least with my decisions took a emotional ending, which is perfect for what the ending of Mass Effect 3 will bring.

    Simplemente genial. Por momentos posee grandes dosis de comedia, pero sin abusar de ella, llevando a una conclusion que, al menos con mis decisiones daba un final    Just great. At times it has a great deal of comedy, but without abusing it, leading to a conclusion that, at least with my decisions took a emotional ending, which is perfect for what the ending of Mass Effect 3 will bring.

    Simplemente genial. Por momentos posee grandes dosis de comedia, pero sin abusar de ella, llevando a una conclusion que, al menos con mis decisiones daba un final emotivo, que queda perfecto para lo que el final de Mass Effect 3 nos depara.    … Expand
  36. Gothic90
    May 11, 2013
    8
    This DLC is a great conclusion to Mass Effect 3.

    At first I was always wary of DLCs whose price is over $10 because LotSB set the bar of what a $10 DLC should look like, but Citadel really offered a ton of content, unlike that $15 piece of crap called Omega (did not buy, did not play, heard it was crap). Yes I understand, story this, combat that, but Citadel really offered what    This DLC is a great conclusion to Mass Effect 3.

    At first I was always wary of DLCs whose price is over $10 because LotSB set the bar of what a $10 DLC should look like, but Citadel really offered a ton of content, unlike that $15 piece of crap called Omega (did not buy, did not play, heard it was crap).

    Yes I understand, story this, combat that, but Citadel really offered what Bioware has been missing all along, the living, breathing atmosphere all in the party and interactions with the squad.

    While it doesn't restore my trust to Bioware (I still won't pre-order DA3) or change my mind about ME3 as a whole (I still think it's crap, not just the ending), it is good when standing alone, and it can make me forget a little bit of their antics.    … Expand
  37. Garian
    Jun 26, 2020
    10
    This was an absolutely amazing DLC. While many fans are probably pissed that it didn't change the ending and that this DLC doesn't quite fit the theme of the game, it was an enjoyable breath of fresh air in comparison to the terrible ending. The references to the previous games were well written and I genuinely enjoyed the entirety of the DLC, it made me feel like I was playing Mass EffectThis was an absolutely amazing DLC. While many fans are probably pissed that it didn't change the ending and that this DLC doesn't quite fit the theme of the game, it was an enjoyable breath of fresh air in comparison to the terrible ending. The references to the previous games were well written and I genuinely enjoyed the entirety of the DLC, it made me feel like I was playing Mass Effect 2 again.… Expand
  38. Coletrain128
    Mar 20, 2013
    9
    If you played through the entire trilogy or started with me3, you owe it to yourself to pick up citadel. Throwing a party for your squad mates, an exciting campaign, and exploring new sections of the citadel is what makes it so great and its a proper send off to the franchise
  39. AngryGRG
    May 18, 2013
    9
    The Best DLC in Mass Effect History, and the most funniest one. Awesome Soundtrack, a great last time meet up with your Team along with a satisfying story. The DLC takes up 4 hours to 6 hours which is a fine amount of time. I strongly suggest getting it, this will be your last goodbye to Shepard and his team. Almost like as if you never wanted it to end. But it does have it's own smallThe Best DLC in Mass Effect History, and the most funniest one. Awesome Soundtrack, a great last time meet up with your Team along with a satisfying story. The DLC takes up 4 hours to 6 hours which is a fine amount of time. I strongly suggest getting it, this will be your last goodbye to Shepard and his team. Almost like as if you never wanted it to end. But it does have it's own small problems, which are only the bugs and glitches during cut scenes. Nothing too major that ruin the experience. This is a must own.… Expand
  40. Wolfenstein9598
    Apr 25, 2013
    9
    As I have played all of the Mass Effect and loved them, I had high hopes for this, and I was not disappointed. I had a big grin on my face throughout this (apart from the beginning, where I was an adept and every enemy had shields, and I had no way of killing shields) The references are great, and this is well worth the price of admission.
  41. houyi111
    Apr 30, 2013
    8
    the story is interesting and fun to play. i laughed a few time and truly enjoyed the gameplay. amazing DLC for me to say final goodbye to this franchise. the franchise had so much potential....what a waste..
  42. Ahazy
    Mar 20, 2013
    9
    This is the happy, bittersweet ending we all wanted for Mass Effect, or at least the closest thing to one. It doesn't change the ending, nor does it add anything to it. It's simply an extremely well done send off for some of the most loved characters of any modern video game.

    The first half of this dlc is combat focused and has a hilariously awesome antagonist (I won't spoil it for    This is the happy, bittersweet ending we all wanted for Mass Effect, or at least the closest thing to one. It doesn't change the ending, nor does it add anything to it. It's simply an extremely well done send off for some of the most loved characters of any modern video game.

    The first half of this dlc is combat focused and has a hilariously awesome antagonist (I won't spoil it for you).
    They give you a whole new area of the citadel to explore filled with old beloved characters, as well as an apartment for Shepard to hang out with all his friends during downtime. And there will be a lot of downtime later on, why not throw a party?

    If you are even remotely a mass effect fan, this DLC is unquestionably one of the most fun to play. It's humor is some of the best bioware has ever put out and would be a complete shame to miss if you're a fan.    … Expand
  43. ChalenChambers
    Apr 16, 2013
    10
    Mass Effect 3 Citadel is what all of Mass Effect 3 should' have been. It's smart, it's funny, and it offers a great way to end one of the greatest trilogies of the gaming world.
  44. Oborosen
    Apr 25, 2013
    9
    While the game took some time to actually let me access the DLC for Citadel, I found that the return of so many familiar faces in a more lengthy format was a grace.Coming from someone who has been gaming for over 20 years I can say that this was rather satisfying for my taste.
  45. AaronKrug
    May 5, 2013
    9
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. I played ME3 for the first time with Extended Cut and Citadel installed, so it is hard for me to consider the DLC from an individual standpoint. That being said, I cannot imagine having played without it. The DLC allowed me as a living person to have an avenue to say goodbye to these characters I spent so much time with. The action parts are great, evoking the overwhelming numbers feeling from ME2 and giving you the sense of accomplishment gained from completing a major piece of the storyline. This is not the true gem of the DLC pack though, the party afterwards is. When I originally got the party mission I thought it was going to be pretty cheesy, but the party itself ended up being a touching goodbye from the ME3 team to the fans just as much as it was a goodbye from the characters to Shepard. The combat sim provides a replay value as well as the ability to fight with some characters who didn't quite make it to the party for ME3 also. As far as DLC, I can only say I wish I understood how the team saw the game as complete without it. It is definitely needed in order to obtain some closure on the subject, which is definitely needed when presenting an ending that doesn't exactly evoke the warm and fuzzies.… Expand
  46. CasualSum1
    May 11, 2013
    8
    This DLC is great. It is definitely the best DLC for ME3 maybe but Javik. This DLC's best feature is humor and taking gamers' jokes and putting them into the game as well. The only few problems I have are that it doesn't change the story at all (the infamous ending) and it's story isn't all that great. However everything else is awesome. However a little overpriced if you ask me.
  47. GamingGuru365
    May 30, 2013
    10
    Mass Effect 3: Citadel may very well be the biggest and sloppiest piece of fan service I've ever seen. And every Mass Effect fan should embrace it. It is the last piece of new content we'll ever see for Shepard and his crew, so if you were as pulled in by Mass Effect as I was, you will love this whole damn DLC.
    It may not be as story relevant as Shadow Broker, but it captures what every    Mass Effect 3: Citadel may very well be the biggest and sloppiest piece of fan service I've ever seen. And every Mass Effect fan should embrace it. It is the last piece of new content we'll ever see for Shepard and his crew, so if you were as pulled in by Mass Effect as I was, you will love this whole damn DLC.
    It may not be as story relevant as Shadow Broker, but it captures what every fan would want as a goodbye to the best piece of sci-fi in the last decade.
    I can't fit anymore praise into this review! GO PLAY IT!    … Expand
  48. Brainlicker
    Jun 2, 2013
    10
    Why could they not have ended the trilogy with this ending? It would have been a great send off for the series. It provided humor, a sense of closure and a lot of content that provided a good amount of replay value. Oh to go back in time and wiped away the original ending and tied this in as the post climax finish.
  49. Diffusion
    Feb 12, 2014
    10
    The Citadel DLC is the best of what I loved about ME2. It drops the dark death mood of ME3 and brings a fresh feeling to the entry with a good bit of comedy. I have been smiling the entire time I have been playing. You face a new villain who turns out to be not at all what you expect them to throw at you. Getting to see Wrex and Shepard dancing in tuxes at a casino and getting tattedThe Citadel DLC is the best of what I loved about ME2. It drops the dark death mood of ME3 and brings a fresh feeling to the entry with a good bit of comedy. I have been smiling the entire time I have been playing. You face a new villain who turns out to be not at all what you expect them to throw at you. Getting to see Wrex and Shepard dancing in tuxes at a casino and getting tatted up are just a couple of the cool things you get to see.… Expand
  50. BigDegs29
    Nov 12, 2014
    10
    This is the best DLC I've ever played. It's exactly the right way to wrap up this series. Too bad they didn't have more of this in ME3's ending!

    It's full of charm, wit, and emotion. A last hurrah with your crew. Perfect, if not still overpriced.
  51. WhiskeyStories
    Dec 3, 2017
    7
    Schlocky, sel-aware and unashamedly plays on the heartstrings of your sentimentality and nostalgia for the franchise. It's probably the best DLC in the whole trilogy. It's a fun romp that's worth your time time and money.
  52. eva3si0n
    May 27, 2020
    10
    Mass Effect 3: Citadel is the best addition not only for Mass Effect 3, but in general in the whole series. Just a wonderful completion of the trilogy (if BioWare hadn 't ruined the ending). Yes here quests are more interesting than some of the main storyline. Great jokes that are clearly written for the most devoted fans. And the most important thing is the party. This is the best thingMass Effect 3: Citadel is the best addition not only for Mass Effect 3, but in general in the whole series. Just a wonderful completion of the trilogy (if BioWare hadn 't ruined the ending). Yes here quests are more interesting than some of the main storyline. Great jokes that are clearly written for the most devoted fans. And the most important thing is the party. This is the best thing BioWare could do, given what interesting characters were created. The last to customize is a great product from BioWare.… Expand
  53. RodrigoroRex
    Dec 21, 2020
    10
    "Mass Effect 3: Citadel": Amazing game, it provides an amazing experience for the player. 7 out of 7. Played it on Xbox 360.

Awards & Rankings

17
#17 Best Xbox 360 Game of 2013
35
#35 Most Discussed Xbox 360 Game of 2013

Critic Reviews

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Metascore
84

Generally favorable reviews - based on 19 Critic Reviews

Critic score distribution:
  1. Positive: 17 out of 19
  2. Mixed: 2 out of 19
  3. Negative: 0 out of 19
  1. Thunderbolt
    Apr 4, 2013
    90
    It’s astonishing just how much content is packed in here.
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  2. GamingTrend
    Apr 2, 2013
    92
    Citadel is fan service at its worst, but Mass Effect at its best. Clever dialogue, heart-warming callbacks, and enough content to make it worth the $15 price tag make Mass Effect: Citadel a worthy goodbye to a cast of characters that forever shaped gaming history.
    Read full review
  3. The Digital Fix
    Mar 27, 2013
    90
    Seriously, the only way this could be any better were if it ended on a freeze-frame of Shepard punching the air, accompanied by Simple Minds’ ‘Don’t You Forget About Me’.
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