Mass Effect 3

 Xbox 360
User Score
6.0

Mixed or average reviews- based on 3849 Ratings

User score distribution:
  1. Positive: 2,035 out of 3849
  2. Mixed: 461 out of 3849
  3. Negative: 1,353 out of 3849
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  1. EnigmaReviews
    Jul 24, 2012
    9
    Well one of the best gaming series ever has come to an end. When I first got my hands on the game I immediatly notices differences from the second game. The first of course is the graphics. Although they don't compare to the those of Uncharted, Gears of War, and Crysis they are still good in their own way. The next thing I noticed is new animations. This is good because in a lot of sequelsWell one of the best gaming series ever has come to an end. When I first got my hands on the game I immediatly notices differences from the second game. The first of course is the graphics. Although they don't compare to the those of Uncharted, Gears of War, and Crysis they are still good in their own way. The next thing I noticed is new animations. This is good because in a lot of sequels devs will recycle the same animation. I got to the story and it was extremely good no suprise there. The gameplay was great, weapons where awesome, and the characters where likeable. The multiplayer isn't that great to be honest. It seem like something they tacked on to add more to the game. Although the free DLC is a bonus it isn't much of a plus. Now here comes the ending drama. (Please note that I am writng this review after the extended cut dlc). This part of the game has gathered a lot of negative feedback. The ending by far was good. The main thing I have a problem with is what Bioware promised. The ending didn't have much variety in them. Also your decisions really don't have zero effect on the ending as well which is a huge let down. Overall this is an amazing game but if you where a fan from the begining them you will feel disapointed at the end. That doesn't take away from the game though. It does so much good that it heavily out weighs the bad. Mass Effect 3 is a 9/10 if they would have got the ending right it would have been a master piece.… Expand
  2. FellFerreira
    Apr 25, 2012
    10
    Mass Effect pra mim eh o simbolo maior da geracao atual, sempre fui fa desde o primeiro e comprei minha edicao de colecionador por tamanho respeito e carinho que tenho pela saga. O que falar entao de Mass Effect sem parecer um fanboy? Historia irada, personagens incriveis, tecnica perfeita, mecanica anos luz a frente do primeiro e jah sensacional Mass Effect original. Eh Mass Effect 3 ehMass Effect pra mim eh o simbolo maior da geracao atual, sempre fui fa desde o primeiro e comprei minha edicao de colecionador por tamanho respeito e carinho que tenho pela saga. O que falar entao de Mass Effect sem parecer um fanboy? Historia irada, personagens incriveis, tecnica perfeita, mecanica anos luz a frente do primeiro e jah sensacional Mass Effect original. Eh Mass Effect 3 eh muito melhor do que eu imaginava, o unico jogo longo que estava torcendo pra nao acabar, nao por causa do final polemico (ate pq achei sensacional) mas porque eu sei que ao fechar seria o fim, e eu realmente nao queria o fim. Sheppard, Garrus, Thane, Jack, eu realmente vou sentir falta deles, sao personagens que me envolvi e o mais sensacional evoluiram ao longo da historia. Tenho uma coisa a dizer, Bioware muito obrigado pela experiencia, pelos momentos de indecisao de ficar por minutos pensando nas consequencias de minhas acoes, muito obrigado pela estadia na Normandy. Mass Effect 3 tem ainda um bom adendo o multiplayer, nao eh algo sensacional mas devido ao incrivel background torna a experiencia bacana, Quero muito DLCs muito mesmo, e as vezes fico imaginando plots indivduais para cada personagem. Seria maneiro o fim no ponto de vista de cada personagem, e uma mecanica diferenciada pra cada. Mas está de bom tamanho, na verdade estou satisfeito. 10 com louvor se pudesse dava 11. "Sheppard out"… Expand
  3. KletassVanDam
    Dec 27, 2012
    8
    I'm giving this an 8 even though I agree with a lot of the negative reviews about the ending and lack of consequences of choice. It is very fun to play, and the action/combat is tight and enjoyable (love the sniper rifle). I wish there were some large variance to the results, inviting multiple playthrus. ME2, to me, is better than ME3, but ME3 is worth at least one complete playthru, andI'm giving this an 8 even though I agree with a lot of the negative reviews about the ending and lack of consequences of choice. It is very fun to play, and the action/combat is tight and enjoyable (love the sniper rifle). I wish there were some large variance to the results, inviting multiple playthrus. ME2, to me, is better than ME3, but ME3 is worth at least one complete playthru, and if you liked ME or ME2, you'll have fun playing ME3, even if you will be left flat or confused with the end. Bring on a new ME series, and have parts of the game locked out based on a choice you make which take you down a certain path. Have character's relationships change irrevocably and have them join or not based on how they feel about you or other characters.… Expand
  4. HofmanT
    Mar 16, 2012
    9
    I give Mass Effect 3 a 9.5. If you like video games focused on telling spectacular and immersive story's with tons of customization, then you will fall in love with the Mass Effect series. You will fall in love with this game. If you're new to the series and are thinking about playing this game, I would STRONGLY recommend playing the first two games before you play this one. Each game isI give Mass Effect 3 a 9.5. If you like video games focused on telling spectacular and immersive story's with tons of customization, then you will fall in love with the Mass Effect series. You will fall in love with this game. If you're new to the series and are thinking about playing this game, I would STRONGLY recommend playing the first two games before you play this one. Each game is about making difficult decisions shaping the future of the galaxy then carrying your decisions over into the next game in the series. So in order to get the full experience out of Mass Effect 3, then you should play the other two games first. If not, then you will be completely lost.

    So overall, it's a fantastic game and one of my personal favorites. I'd strongly recommend it!    … Expand
  5. 1011ad
    Mar 14, 2012
    10
    This game is amazing. One of my favorite games of all time. Haters gonna hate. The DLC is worth the price and it took me 60 hours to complete the entire game. Totally worth the $70 price tag.
  6. InfamousJedi
    May 7, 2012
    10
    (possible spoilers)
    Hate that is directed towards this game is only due to fans getting an ending they were not expecting. The ending does not and should not take away the fact that Mass Effect 3 is a fun and engaging game that has lovable characters and a deep, rich world. Would I have liked the ME series to end a bit different? absolutely, but the fact is how the game ends leaves    (possible spoilers)
    Hate that is directed towards this game is only due to fans getting an ending they were not expecting. The ending does not and should not take away the fact that Mass Effect 3 is a fun and engaging game that has lovable characters and a deep, rich world. Would I have liked the ME series to end a bit different? absolutely, but the fact is how the game ends leaves plenty of room for interpretation(which is a trend that we gamers are the cause of). Hopefully the coming extended cut DLC will bring more closure to fans that wanted to see the effects that their Shepard had on the Galaxy. Fans should note this was Shep's story if he were to die that should be it for the story.    … Expand
  7. MethodicCircle
    May 25, 2012
    9
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. I'm not like most of the people who have reviewed ME3 here up to this point. By this I mean that I'm 47 years old. I also was introduced to this series with ME3. I only got into console-based gaming three or four years ago; the last console I owned before my PS3 was an Intellivision (swear to God). There were several titles in 2009 which grabbed my attention by the ba11s and totally immersed me into gaming. That being said, I tried the demo to ME2 when it hit the PSN a couple of years ago and it made NO sense to me - controlling 2 other characters and figuring out how AI had progressed SO much was just too much for my head to grapple with. Then came ME3. Not only did it romance the heck out of me with the ads (still can't believe they worked so well on me), I suckered into the hype of release day. Still didn't play it for 2 weeks. Then once I started I couldn't stop. I was overwhelmed by the emotions that this game was pulling out of me ... when I went to work, I couldn't stop thinking about what I'd just experienced. I couldn't stop thinking about what was going to happen next ... the first time I had to wipe out an entire civilization it devastated me. My friends started becoming concerned about my inability to separate fact from fiction! ; ) I wasn't aware of the romance options ... and when Steve Cortez said that he had lost his husband in a Collector invasion ... I dropped my controller. (I'm a gay guy). Thank God a friend was here to confirm what I thought I had just heard. (so what if the dialogue betw. Shep and Steve becomes a little contrived ... the ADVANCEMENT that this is for us gays feels MONUMENTAL to me). I almost fell off the edge of my chair while bringing Javic back to life. THAT, ladies and gentlemen, was some BRILLIANT scifi writing. (re the salarians: "they used to eat flies." --- OMG!) Then I got to the end. After I finally stopped CRYING because Shepard had almost just died like that I got to the ending sequence. I knew I hated that little kid from the beginning. I like to think I understand the ending ... and how it got there. I HATE the fact that he (presumably) had to die. HATE IT. I didn't necessarily like the ending to "Schindler's List" either, but that's how it was meant to be seen. Everything in life doesn't come with closure or wrap itself up in a tidy little ending to make you feel better. Some things just are what they are and leave us to figure it out ... or not. If you really think about it, the ending could have been A LOT worse. But this game intrigued me so much that I RAN to get ME2 and ME. Which brings me REALLY to why I'm writing this. The technical advancement from ME to ME3 is reason enough to gush about the game. I was a little thrown off by the "godzilla"-like lip movements, but my God people ... in just 10 years the technological advancements that were made with this series is something that should be rewarded (like by an Academy Award or something). (sorry for the upcoming pun) The mass effect (told you) that this game had on me will always stay with me. And keep me gaming into my 80s (probably).

    Someone on this page made a comment about ME3 being "sodomic and heterophobic"... first, dude, those aren't words. Second, the majority of the world is straight. Statistically gay is only 10% of the population. By giving the male Shep a possible 2 out of 7 love interests that pretty much keeps in line with global statistics. Unless you think the entire world is hetero-phobic .... ??

    I think ME3 ROCKED. (and thanks for letting me rant like this! : )    … Expand
  8. Kaisar_Villhelm
    Mar 21, 2012
    9
    I have to say that this is probably my favorite game in the series, as it causes the playing character to actually reflect on what his/her choices actually amount to after all three segments of the epic are finished. I understand that many people are very disappointed with the ending presented, and without spoiling anything, I want to state that I understand many of the complaints aboutI have to say that this is probably my favorite game in the series, as it causes the playing character to actually reflect on what his/her choices actually amount to after all three segments of the epic are finished. I understand that many people are very disappointed with the ending presented, and without spoiling anything, I want to state that I understand many of the complaints about the ending--personally I like a game to break its boundaries and have a tangible effect on how I feel as a gamer. The game play in this segment of the series is excellent, a true amalgam of the first and second games. The multiplayer aspect of the game also keeps the game fresh after the two (or more) mandatory playthroughs to see the effects of the paragon/renegade choices. With that said, however, I will say that I was disappointed with how many graphical glitches I encountered through my playthroughs. I saw many occurrences of invisible or skewed models in cutscenes and during gameplay.

    All in all, though, the game was a fantastic emotional experience, the ending included. Minus a few graphical issues here and there, I would honestly say that this game is worthy addition to the fantastic Mass Effect series.    … Expand
  9. WiteFalcon
    May 17, 2012
    9
    My favourite gaming franchise, I loved Mass Effects 1-3 so much, that I have 5 characters and have completed minimum of 4 playthroughs through ME1 & 2. Mass Effect 3 is an AWESOME game, no doubt about it. It's setting the standard for story based games and RPGs, now and for the future. Although I didn't mind the ending, I found it cool actually, it could of been WAY more awesome, byMy favourite gaming franchise, I loved Mass Effects 1-3 so much, that I have 5 characters and have completed minimum of 4 playthroughs through ME1 & 2. Mass Effect 3 is an AWESOME game, no doubt about it. It's setting the standard for story based games and RPGs, now and for the future. Although I didn't mind the ending, I found it cool actually, it could of been WAY more awesome, by including prior decisions into the outcome of the ending and leaves things out.

    Pros: - Hooks you in with all elements (Even if your new to the series)
    - Great refined gameplay! (This game is pretty much Gears of War except more sci-fi and with RPG gameplay and story shaping)
    - Shape the story to how you want (This includes a lot of prior decisions made, unlike most games your previous saves matter!)
    - Great sense of characterisation for who you play as! (You really feel as if you are Shepard)


    Cons:
    - New players forced for a few elements of the game to occur (Which they have no choice over as they don't have a previous save file for the game to recognise) (Such as Wrex's death)
    - Crew development was a lot better in Mass Effect 2 (Its less about other people and more about Shepard)
    - Ending is confusing (Many people would agree, but it doesn't ruin the ending, just leaves blanks for you to imagine to fill in)
    - The game doesn't take into account EVERYTHING you've done in previous games, and areas are left unturned, and the ending doesn't take into account prior choices. All in all, an incredible experience that has changed the world of gaming forever and succeeds highly, but could of strived for complete perfection. Hence the 9 instead of perfect 10.    … Expand
  10. Neely
    Mar 11, 2012
    10
    You'll be thinking about your choices days after completion; a feat not many games in the industry can replicate. With this being said, the combat is better, and the multiplayer only adds more to an already robust package. And the story? The Mass Effect series will go down as one of the best written stories in all of video gaming history.
  11. kotwr424
    Mar 12, 2012
    9
    Mass Effect 3 is a great game everything about it has been executed to near perfection. The story gets tied together very nicely old and new character's make their appearances once again. The graphics are more smooth than ME2 but just barely noticeable. The only issue I had with the models is the hair color for Dark Brown looked more like dark chocolate and was barely different from blackMass Effect 3 is a great game everything about it has been executed to near perfection. The story gets tied together very nicely old and new character's make their appearances once again. The graphics are more smooth than ME2 but just barely noticeable. The only issue I had with the models is the hair color for Dark Brown looked more like dark chocolate and was barely different from black (only flaw and its minor). The game had my emotions torn at times with me thinking carefully about my decisions. The Pro's are far more than the Con's but however the only thing keeping me from giving this game the 10 it should have gotten are the Con's and they're HUGE in my book. First off, there seems to be no point in space exploration and it has slowly been taken out of the game after each installment, no more random scanning a planet and getting a mission or so i've seen now its all for my EMS. Second Day one DLC, does this bother me a lot no not at all but after reading the rumors and seeing the "Proof" it kinda pokes at me a little atleast the cerberus network gave us zaeed's mission free. Third It felt like there was truly no need to play ME1 or ME2 at all I can just upload a MP char and get a similar outcome, speaking of which. Fourth The outcome of the game aka the ending........Although I understand the ending's, I got closure (for one character), I'm vastly disappointed in BioWare and the writing staff that gave us the Previous two games. There was no suicide mission type choices, no epic ending, in a sense we got Matrixed, Inceptioned, ripped off? This is my opinion I enjoyed the 35 hours I played of Mass Effect 3 more than any game since Mass Effect 2. The endings however have left a very tainted view of BioWare saying one thing and giving us another, this will sadly be the last BioWare game I buy, I no longer have an active ToR account since I feel no desire to play it anymore after ME3 ruined the ME franchise for me and any other game they've made. I'll also not be re-playing this game at all since i see little to no value in it. I may be among the few that have voiced there disappointment/rage/anger etc or the many I'm not sure but BioWare has lost a consumer that I'm sure they'll replace with another in me.… Expand
  12. iloveFFC
    Sep 3, 2013
    10
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. Yes the endings were dissapointing, but they came out with a DLC for it. The Reapers are extremely intimidating and cool. Their sheer power makes you realize just how much the galaxy depends on every choice you make. Its the best game in the series, dont let a lackluster ending discorage you. Alot of people expected more for an ending to such an epic series like this, but no game is perfect, just because the ending was bad doesn't mean the whole game is horrible. Anyway, the graphics are great, but the facial motions are very off at times. It has much more humor thanks to EDI and Joker cooperating and joking among eachother and everyone else. To enjoy the game to it's fullest, play the first 2 then play this one, an imported save will greatly increase your enjoment of this wonderful game. The characters are still amazing and we even get some new characters to bond with. This game is just, wow! Just dont play it on Soldier mode, its horrid.… Expand
  13. abHYPE88
    Mar 15, 2012
    10
    I can't believe what people are saying about this game. It's an amazing end to an epic trilogy. Sure not everyone got a specifically tailored experience they were expecting but I mean come on! I still don't think we're at the stage in gaming and technology where developers are able to COMPLETELY make sure everyone gets something different, plus it's a trilogy. I can understand if it's oneI can't believe what people are saying about this game. It's an amazing end to an epic trilogy. Sure not everyone got a specifically tailored experience they were expecting but I mean come on! I still don't think we're at the stage in gaming and technology where developers are able to COMPLETELY make sure everyone gets something different, plus it's a trilogy. I can understand if it's one game, but making 3 games that would take into accounts hundreds of actions to create a unique story for millions of gamers, I think, is still out of our reach. Sure the ending wasn't as spectacular as I would've liked but it closed the game and brought an ending to the amazing story known as Mass Effect. There were still some plotholes but forgivable considering how much I enjoyed the game and the beauty and inspiring moments presented. Apparently hundreds of gamers need to get their heads out of their asses and realize that even though gaming is far more advanced than it was not even a decade ago, developers still have a lot of limitations. Mass Effect 3 is a game well worth buying and playing through. When I get my hands on the first Mass Effect, I will play through all 3 games again (this time as a badass female Shepard) because the trilogy is just that awesome to play through.… Expand
  14. The_Redback
    Mar 15, 2012
    10
    Amazing game. Great way to finish off the trilogy. Graphics and game play were excellent while managing to keep the flow of the story intact and build character in which you feel an emotional attachment to. People have voted the game down for the ending but its a case that they just don't 'get it'. They don't understand it. Overall, wouldn't change a thing. Get out there and play it.
  15. MikeE50
    May 8, 2012
    10
    I must be strange because I enjoyed all 3 Mass Effect games nearly equally. If you like 1 and 2 you should like 3 as well. What's good about it? The writing, the characters, the universe, the graphics, the music & sound, the action, etc. It's not perfect, but no game is perfect.

    For the uninformed reader, the reason there are so many highly negative user reviews is because many people    I must be strange because I enjoyed all 3 Mass Effect games nearly equally. If you like 1 and 2 you should like 3 as well. What's good about it? The writing, the characters, the universe, the graphics, the music & sound, the action, etc. It's not perfect, but no game is perfect.

    For the uninformed reader, the reason there are so many highly negative user reviews is because many people do not like the ending (no spoilers in my review). I enjoyed the ending spoiler-free and then read why people were upset and I can see their point. I can imagine other possible endings that would be equally good, but I like the official ending too. Taken as a whole, the game, if the Action-RPG genre and sci-fi setting interests you, is a 10/10.    … Expand
  16. FineapplePucker
    Mar 13, 2012
    10
    Do not listen to the people who gave this game a low score. They are bashing it because of 1. the Day one dlc, which is only ONE mission, a squadmate, and extra squad outfits; 2. Because they do not understand the ending; or 3. haven't played the game and are acting like they have because they just hate the series. This is easily a top contender for this years GOTY and it is only March.Do not listen to the people who gave this game a low score. They are bashing it because of 1. the Day one dlc, which is only ONE mission, a squadmate, and extra squad outfits; 2. Because they do not understand the ending; or 3. haven't played the game and are acting like they have because they just hate the series. This is easily a top contender for this years GOTY and it is only March. The game is excellent in every aspect. The gameplay, story, everything! The gameplay is so smooth and the multiplayer is a giant step in the right direction and will increase the replay value so much. The story is extremely well written and to all those who don't understand the ending, Look it up or something. The graphics have improved too. The game also goes back to more RPG-like roots which make it even better. ME2 was great, ME3 is excellent. The game does have a few glitches like character imports or cutscenes, but are easily overlooked and nowhere near as bad as certain RPGs that came out last year cough*cough*Sky cough*cough*rim cough*cough* The glitches are so minuscule that they won't even make me lower the game a score. This game is so close to perfection, it is ridiculous. If you are a fan of the series, this is a must buy, if not, now's the time to start. And to those who are just saying this game sucked because you, "have to pay for dlc, waaaah," or "I hate the ending" or "Mass effect sucks even though I haven't played it," Grow up. I do admit the dlc is a little dumb but it is only one mission. To those who didn't like the ending really need to look it up or something because the ending is absolute GENIUS just like the rest of the game. If you compare the Critics to the users, there is obviously many biased opinions in the user reviews.… Expand
  17. Darklink
    Jul 22, 2013
    10
    First of all I've never actually played the game. BUT! Since its release I've had so much fun reading the reviews I honestly believes it DESERVES a 10/10 score. Every time I feel down or bored I come on Metacritic and feel alive again! I think Bioware never realised it but they invented the Mass Comedy genre in a night. Some of the reviews here are pure gold. Seek for the "fistula" one,First of all I've never actually played the game. BUT! Since its release I've had so much fun reading the reviews I honestly believes it DESERVES a 10/10 score. Every time I feel down or bored I come on Metacritic and feel alive again! I think Bioware never realised it but they invented the Mass Comedy genre in a night. Some of the reviews here are pure gold. Seek for the "fistula" one, it's left-hemospheric exo-plasmatic. To all the reviewers here, a HUGE thank you! You made this game awesome! :D… Expand
  18. FictionalOrange
    Jun 7, 2012
    9
    This game is thus far the best of the year- and perhaps could have been one of the best games of all time, save for lackluster ending. The journey to get to that ending, however, is what counts. People who say the ending ruined the whole series are idiots- the game is gorgeous from start to finish. The story is brilliant, the characters are well developed, and the gameplay is tight andThis game is thus far the best of the year- and perhaps could have been one of the best games of all time, save for lackluster ending. The journey to get to that ending, however, is what counts. People who say the ending ruined the whole series are idiots- the game is gorgeous from start to finish. The story is brilliant, the characters are well developed, and the gameplay is tight and satisfying. Player choice shapes the path to the conclusion, allowing each player to make their own story, although the ending itself is perhaps not as user-driven as many fans would like. Fans of the first two installments will not be disappointed with the game itself, although those seeking closure and every answer to every question posed in the mass effect universe should be wary that the conclusion provides neither. It is the ending of the game, which feels so disjointed from the rest of the game and unrelated to anything else in the entire series, that ultimately holds the game back from being one of the greatest of all time. That said, when taken as a whole, the game ties up many loose ends from the previous two installments and immerses new and old players alike in the series' rich lore. The graphics are gorgeous minus a few flaws here and there and the soundtrack is beautiful and haunting- the series' best. This game was beautifully executed (excluding the questionable ending) and dwarfs every other game I've played recently. It will stick with me for a while. Highly recommended.… Expand
  19. Robkilerrabit
    Mar 17, 2012
    10
    Great Game, except the ending. The ending wasn't that horrible, it has definitely been exaggerated in how bad it was, but I feel like they could have done better. Still worth the money though.
  20. scorpolion
    Mar 14, 2012
    10
    Let me speak from my heart,
    Thi is a beautifull game with a beautifull scenary, i like all parts of this game. This is the model of sci-fi grand opera
    Thanks, with respect.
  21. andvaree
    Mar 11, 2012
    10
    ME3 took 36 hours of my life to complete, but it was well worth it. One of the best, most heart wrenching, sci-fi storytelling experiences of my life - video game, movie, book or otherwise. ...and - for me - the best video game ever!
  22. victortoyos
    Mar 11, 2012
    10
    Awesome, just what I though it would be!I`m simply loving this game :) Played 1 and 2 again so i could get back in the story. Awsome :D Nothing less then perfection. I managed to get a copy a few days early and I never thought the story and game could top what the last two games have delivered, but this keeps getting better and better! You really do feel the weight of those decisions youAwesome, just what I though it would be!I`m simply loving this game :) Played 1 and 2 again so i could get back in the story. Awsome :D Nothing less then perfection. I managed to get a copy a few days early and I never thought the story and game could top what the last two games have delivered, but this keeps getting better and better! You really do feel the weight of those decisions you made. Its great to finally see the outcome of these shaping after waiting for 5 years in curiosity as to what would happen.… Expand
  23. Re-Age-NT
    Mar 11, 2012
    9
    One of the best games ever made. Masterpiece. Even that the ending is not as good as the whole game, it's still 10 of 10 without any doubts.These seires have the best sci-fi atmosphere in games while possessing good plot and actually really nice actors.
  24. MarkJones
    Mar 11, 2012
    10
    I'll start with the bad. Problems include familiar lip syncing issues, an improved but still troublesome cover system, what I assume to be a problematic introduction to gamers new to Mass Effect, and the underwhelming and increasingly controversial ending - which I'll return to later.

    Everything right with the game overcomes all of negative. The story was more engrossing than ever. The    I'll start with the bad. Problems include familiar lip syncing issues, an improved but still troublesome cover system, what I assume to be a problematic introduction to gamers new to Mass Effect, and the underwhelming and increasingly controversial ending - which I'll return to later.

    Everything right with the game overcomes all of negative. The story was more engrossing than ever. The voice acting; inspired. The sound and music was perfect. The loose integration of a genuinely fun, cooperative mutliplayer mode into the campaign was a stroke of genius. Buy now if you have played and completed Mass Effect and ME2, do not rent. If you haven't played the previous games: do so. Before you buy, arm yourself with good excuses for your significant other or boss as to why you've mysteriously disappeared. As for the end. The end may not be what some may have idealized during their struggle through the series. During the play-through, gamers will reflect on what they want for Shepard, what they define as victory. But the dialectic between agency and determinism can only be resolved by resolution. Everything which Shepard struggled for is preserved. Everything which Shepard struggled for is destroyed. Bitter sweet and beautiful.    … Expand
  25. InfiniteSheldon
    Mar 11, 2012
    10
    Those who have rated this game below a seven simply do not know how to review games. Straight simple. I'm seeing a lot of ones and zeroes that don't make any sense; not really sure what people are crying about. 1) Graphics: Improved
    2) Sound/Music: Improved 3) Multiplayer: Functional and Enjoyable
    4) Combat Gameplay: Improved--Melee does stuff now, cooldowns make more sense, less ammo    Those who have rated this game below a seven simply do not know how to review games. Straight simple. I'm seeing a lot of ones and zeroes that don't make any sense; not really sure what people are crying about. 1) Graphics: Improved
    2) Sound/Music: Improved 3) Multiplayer: Functional and Enjoyable
    4) Combat Gameplay: Improved--Melee does stuff now, cooldowns make more sense, less ammo starvation, certain biotics more balanced than previous two games.
    5) Inventory/Weapon Management: Improved--you can now mod your equipment with a greater variety of equipment depending on your style of play, and there's a wider variety of armor with different buffs.
    6) Skillset/Powers: Improved--definitely more skills/powers than ME2, trimmed the fat from ME1, and gave a whole number of different options for branching out abilities that simply were not present before.
    7) DLC: Incomplete as of yet, but From Ashes is better than Zaeed's DLC
    8) Day 1 DLC: An unfortunate reality of gaming these days. This isn't the first and won't be the last. It may even become the norm. It is however unnecessary for the story, free with the Collector's Edition, and given the delay from the initial forecast for the game's release--right on time. 9) Same-sex romance options. Didn't hear any complaining about girl-on-girl. The male homosexual fanbase now has something more to relate to. Kaiden's advances on Shepard are a little surprising, but no so much now that I remember that he turned down a threesome with FemShep and Liara in the first game when he told me to choose between him and her. These sorts of things make RPGs great; the choices and the consequences that come with them. I can see why homophobes would drop their review score because of this. Because they're bigots.
    10) The story. Here's where people are weeping the most. Apparently some things don't make sense or allegedly retcon what was learned in the first two games. Having played through both of them eight times apiece making different decisions each time, I know that's not the case. Some say that there's no story to the game, but there's more of a story than ME2. And as for choices affecting the final outcome and endgame scenario for ME3, it's no less complete than the influence of ME1 on ME2. If you liked ME2 you should like ME3 if a story is what you're looking for. The game delivered. Everything that people were crying about was addressed. More outfits/armor than ME2. More romance options. Improved Reputation system. New exploration system (and from how much bawling there was about the Mako missions of ME1 and planet scanning of ME2, this is a welcome alternative, but I was one of those people who loved the Mako). It was exciting, gave us more information, more character development, wrapped up a bunch of plotlines seamlessly and had its share of epic battles. One thing that I did miss however was Aria's reclamation of Afterlife. Maybe that's going to be DLC. I want to see that. And maybe we'll get some ME2 characters recruited in DLC as well. So given all the improvements and the adequate story progression based of the progression from ME1 to ME2, I do not see how this could rate any lower than a 7 even if you hate what the story actually is. Personally, I love it. But even if I didn't, I know how to rate the game fairly. I think a lot of people are pissed about what they didn't get instead of enjoying what they did--and they got a fantastic game epic in scope and delivery. Replayability 10/10: Multiplayer and Paragon/Renegade plotlines stemming from the previous games Graphics 9/10:Beautiful cutscenes, breathtaking environments, but people still kind of look molded from clay for some reason. Sound 9/10: Includes music, sound effects and dialogue. Dialogue is great, everyone has their own unique voice (vs. Skyrim where five voices occupy 9 population centers). Sound effects are well done, music isn't my favorite but done well for drama. Where it falters is volume. I know it's hard to hear conversations in a nightclub, but It's a little annoying having to manually adjust volume levels to hear cutscenes in Purgatory. Also, depending on camera angle or POV, people near your character are quiet. Perhaps this is an issue due to my lack of surround sound. Story 8/10: I had hoped for a more meaningful impact on my story when it came to my decisions about the Rachni and the Geth in the previous two games, and recruiting the ME2 characters would have been nice but perhaps overkill. Fun: 10/10: Intense, high-stakes battles. Multiplayer component works great and promises to provide for the long haul. New romance options worth exploring. Great replayability encouraging playing through the previous two games. Wonderful cutscenes. Hilarious and sometimes touching dialogue. Thane will be remembered fondly. Overall 10    … Expand
  26. Zjarcher878
    Mar 16, 2012
    9
    I loved the Mass Effect Series. I wouldn't call myself a completely hardcore gamer but I have stepped my amount of gaming through the years and I owe that to Mass Effect. It was refreshing to see a game with a great story and good characters. Mass Effect 3 is no exception. The writing and dialogue is top notch. The voice acting is fantastic. The game story starts with a bang theI loved the Mass Effect Series. I wouldn't call myself a completely hardcore gamer but I have stepped my amount of gaming through the years and I owe that to Mass Effect. It was refreshing to see a game with a great story and good characters. Mass Effect 3 is no exception. The writing and dialogue is top notch. The voice acting is fantastic. The game story starts with a bang the simmers for a bit. But once you hit the 15-20 hour mark it really takes off. I felt like the quantity of scripted dialogue was greater than I'd like but once the story gets good you forget about it. I personally think the combat it much better. Enemies are smarter and the mechanics, while still slightly unforgiving, are much smoother than in previous iterations. The level design is top notch, with Mass Effect benefiting greatly from becoming a vertical game. The customization for your powers and weapons is brilliant. Mass Effect 3 is really a perfect blend of the first two games. What prevents this game from being a perfect 10 is the ending. The last mission is great but the aftermath of your decision is full of plot holes and doesn't make sense. When I first saw an uproar over the ending I thought it was fanboys not getting the ending they wanted and whining about it. Well I was wrong and they were right. It's not that the end was completely terrible, it is just that there is little variation between the three endings and I part that is consistent through all three (provided you have a high enough galactic readiness) comes out of nowhere and doesn't make sense. I do hope Bioware releases a DLC with an alternate ending of some sort. I was very disappointed. However, don't let the ending scare you away from what is really and awesome game and worth playing. Oh and while its stupid to have a $10 DLC, From Ashes is really worth it. Though to be fair it should of been added to the game to begin with.… Expand
  27. professorofreed
    Mar 12, 2012
    10
    This flame war is silly. Mass Effect is a stellar game! Look at the critic reviews and don't waste time with the people who are trying to knock the score down for malicious and hateful purposes. ME3 is just as good, if not better than the first two. Although, I really loved #2!
  28. KCross
    Mar 13, 2012
    10
    This has been some ride, since Mass Effect first grabbed my attention. I have played through every bit of the first two games, and loved every minute. Now the final comes, and I feel equal parts excited and sad. Sad that it will have to end, but thrilled to get a chance to play it. And it does not disappoint. The emotion - always the strong point of Mass Effect - is brought to anotherThis has been some ride, since Mass Effect first grabbed my attention. I have played through every bit of the first two games, and loved every minute. Now the final comes, and I feel equal parts excited and sad. Sad that it will have to end, but thrilled to get a chance to play it. And it does not disappoint. The emotion - always the strong point of Mass Effect - is brought to another level. The characters that I have come to care so much about are even more fleshed out. And the goosebumps at certain points of the game...well, I won't spoil. Just get it.… Expand
  29. StevenmusPrime
    Mar 13, 2012
    9
    Hate fest is pretty adolescent and absurd. I didn't care for the ending either, but the journey to the end was incredible. I'm not going to try to discredit an entire and incredible series because I didn't like the last 15 minutes. The real issue should be the game as a whole. The whole game is great. If you are considering buying don't let all of the whiny self entitled people sway yourHate fest is pretty adolescent and absurd. I didn't care for the ending either, but the journey to the end was incredible. I'm not going to try to discredit an entire and incredible series because I didn't like the last 15 minutes. The real issue should be the game as a whole. The whole game is great. If you are considering buying don't let all of the whiny self entitled people sway your opinion, Mass Effect 3 is a beautiful game with great game play and an excellent narrative. I will agree that the wrap up felt like a bit of a cop out, maybe it way maybe it wasn't. But if you are a Mass Effect fan please still play the game if you let the whiners get to you you will miss out on a great experience.… Expand
  30. Defender_of-ME
    Mar 13, 2012
    9
    Hey People, stop making accounts solely for the purpose of bringing down this game. Its childish and stupid. This is an amazing game that I have played since ME 1. Just because there is an ending you don't like doesn't mean you have to give it zero scores. This is the most ridiculous and childish thing I have ever seen, I hope all you "grown adults" out there feel happy for being soHey People, stop making accounts solely for the purpose of bringing down this game. Its childish and stupid. This is an amazing game that I have played since ME 1. Just because there is an ending you don't like doesn't mean you have to give it zero scores. This is the most ridiculous and childish thing I have ever seen, I hope all you "grown adults" out there feel happy for being so childish. Listen to the positive reviewers out there people, if you are thinking about getting this game, just because people don't like a game for its ending doesn't mean the whole game is junk. Overall it is a well built and fun game, so please don't listen to all these childish haters out here who need to put on their big boy pants and grow up.… Expand
  31. TyDrag65
    Mar 13, 2012
    8
    I think this game is being unfairly judged by gamers simply because of the content in certain areas, specifically the romance. Gamers need a reminder, that its all CHOICE, and not fact. On that note I have to say the latest BioWare game Mass Effect 3 is one hell of a game. The graphics, sound and story is very fitting for the franchise. My ownly gripe i have with is the the ending butI think this game is being unfairly judged by gamers simply because of the content in certain areas, specifically the romance. Gamers need a reminder, that its all CHOICE, and not fact. On that note I have to say the latest BioWare game Mass Effect 3 is one hell of a game. The graphics, sound and story is very fitting for the franchise. My ownly gripe i have with is the the ending but not because of what others have listed. I simply feel that if you chose to be paragon then the ending should have been strictly the paragone way, and the reneage way was for renagades. Having to chose the final option without including all my other actions felt off to me. Otherwise the game was a good final game. I disliked the ending only because it meant the series really is at an end and I adore this series.… Expand
  32. Havok1496
    Mar 13, 2012
    10
    Mass Effect 3 is an amazing game if you were interested in the first or the second games or even if you have never played mass effect it is definitely worth buying this game. As for the people who say your choices don't matter they do, bioware has merely made the choices harder, and the consequences as well. Where as in the first two games deaths were minor, based on yours actionsMass Effect 3 is an amazing game if you were interested in the first or the second games or even if you have never played mass effect it is definitely worth buying this game. As for the people who say your choices don't matter they do, bioware has merely made the choices harder, and the consequences as well. Where as in the first two games deaths were minor, based on yours actions companions may die however, i feel that while it is at times shocking after you let it settle in it is something to be appreciated. As for those who say the graphics are terrible that is a lie, the game looks amazing probably better than most games that are out on the xbox360, the gameplay is solid i would say that the shooting mechanics have improved, and that from the occasional cover problem combat is very easy to get into but if you play the game on the harder difficulties such as insane the game is a challenge. For those who complain about the dlc or the ending judge the entire game not just one part, if you feel bioware has wronged you. Now some of you may disagree with my rating but i will say this there is no way mass effect 3 deserves anything less than a 8. In all i recommend mass effect 3 for anybody, it is a great game, the endings for some may be not what they expected but it is an amazing game full of incredible moments that should not be missed.… Expand
  33. vanash84
    Mar 14, 2012
    10
    Of all the games I have played, individual or continual, Mass Effect tops them all. And though know there is plenty of criticism with Mass Effect 3, I found none to speak of myself. Although the previous lead writer departed, the story (to me) remained in tact. It may have left most wondering in the end what happened. But I was content. BioWare gave me exactly what I wanted. An endOf all the games I have played, individual or continual, Mass Effect tops them all. And though know there is plenty of criticism with Mass Effect 3, I found none to speak of myself. Although the previous lead writer departed, the story (to me) remained in tact. It may have left most wondering in the end what happened. But I was content. BioWare gave me exactly what I wanted. An end to an amazing trilogy. I started 2 years after the release of Mass Effect [1]. But I continued my journey throughout. Laughed, fought, sat on the edge of my seat in wonder. Mass Effect 2, I saw my decisions (most of them, anyway) carry over. Felt like I was part of something big. Then, Mass Effect 3. The laughter and joy continued. As did the hurt, the worry. Even the sadness appeared. Can honestly say I have never cried during anything. Movies, TV. Nothing. The Mass Effect Trilogy became personal to me in the sense that these are all my decisions spanning 3 whole games. And to see it come to an end, felt good. I hope BioWare keeps the franchise as a whole going into the next-gen consoles. There's so much more that can be done.… Expand
  34. raven191
    Mar 14, 2012
    10
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. This game right now is one of my favorite games behind Half-Life 2. Those two games are the only ones to ever evoke an emotional response from me. I'll admit it, manly tears were shed but it really takes a lot to get that kind of emotion out of me from a video game. There is a lot of grief over the ending, but it was actually my favorite part of the series because of the closure that it brought with it.

    The tear jerker for me was near the end you and Liara share that special moment where time stands still. That part made me bawl like a baby.    … Expand
  35. Xhala
    Mar 14, 2012
    10
    This franchise has been the most rewarding series of games that I have ever played, and this game was no different. The game is visually beautiful, brilliantly voice acted, has exciting combat and a stellar musical score that incorporates elements of the previous two games. I can't help but feel that all of the negative reviews posted here are nothing but a gross overreaction toThis franchise has been the most rewarding series of games that I have ever played, and this game was no different. The game is visually beautiful, brilliantly voice acted, has exciting combat and a stellar musical score that incorporates elements of the previous two games. I can't help but feel that all of the negative reviews posted here are nothing but a gross overreaction to dissatisfaction with the ending. How you feel about the very end of the game is up to you, but all of the people giving this game a review score of 0 or 1 either are simply venting their frustration with the final moments of the game. To do so is to ignore the previous 40+ hours of brilliance.… Expand
  36. Sharkey87
    Mar 14, 2012
    10
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. SPOILER WARNING - YOU HAVE BEEN WARNING

    This is partly a review and partly a rant on what I see as fans strong-arming the creative process. First off what did I think of Mass Effect 3? Well considering I booked a week off work to play it and did nothing but play it for that week, that should tell you I bloody loved every minute of it, EVEN THE ENDING and I'll get onto why later. As an ending to a trilogy that I have been completely invested in since 2008 when I got to play the first game properly on my first Xbox 360 (I did play it on my mates console when if first came out, that is when he wasn't playing it and that wasn't much of the time!) I thought it was excellent. The story was backed up by superbly written and acted characters (although Jessica Chobot was a little distracting) and I got the feeling that everything I had done up to this point had an impact. An example; during my first playthrough of Mass Effect 2, I managed to accomplish the suicide mission without any of my team dieing. Seeing them again in Mass Effect 3 felt like seeing old friends and when they kicked the bucket, I genuinely felt emotion. All the main characters in the Mass Effect trilogy have a real character arc, especially those from Mass Effect 1. I wouldn't have thought during my first encounter with Urdnot Wrex that over the course of the trilogy he would be where he was by the third game. Thats the level of character depth Bioware have achieved, whilst excellent story and characters are a staple of Bioware games the culmination of the Mass Effect trilogy is the apex of their long history of creating virtual worlds. Gameplay and grapics wise its on par with Mass Effect 2, which is no bad thing as that game played well also. Now on to the rant about the community feedback regarding the ending, all I can say to all the internet trolls and 'dissapointed' fans out there is grow up!! Look we are all entitled to our opinion, but to say you hated a game because you hated the ending is immature. I'd hate to be a developer at Bioware, having achieved this incredible milestone in the medium of interactive storytelling and to have wake up to this unessecary vitriol over the ending of a game. My opinion on the ending; I honestly preferred it to a happy ever after everyone lives forgettable ending that we've seen time and again. Good Science Fiction creates fantastical worlds and concepts, great science fiction does these things but also challenges us to think. The ending of Mass Effect 3 in my playthrough had me thinking about the futility and insignifcance of our existence, the cyclical nature of history and other challenging concepts. Mass Effect 1 introduced us to this incredible vision of the future, Mass Effect 2 fleshed out that universe and Mass Effect 3 relates it to reality. Just because Mass Effect 3 doesn't end with the fist pumping bravado that characterizes a game like Call of Duty doesn't make it a bad game. I've heard of a campaign to force Bioware to change the ending of Mass Effect 3, entitled 'take back Mass Effect'. This attempt to strong arm the developer saddens me. It shows a community wholely ungrateful and immature to the point where they consider the intellectual property theirs. Mass Effect was Bioware's creation so what obligation do they have to satisfy a groups notions of what a 'good ending' is. With this response to the games ending, all I have to say is I can only see a bunch of children throwing the toys out of the pram. Right thats my two cents, now I'm going to play through all three games back to back. I'll close this article by saying thank you Bioware, thank you.    … Expand
  37. Slva911
    Mar 22, 2012
    10
    Nothing less then perfection. I managed to get a copy a few days early and I never thought the story and game could top what the last two games have delivered, but this keeps getting better and better! You really do feel the weight of those decisions you made. Its great to finally see the outcome of these shaping after waiting for 5 years in curiosity as to what would happen.
  38. AparoDedaro
    Mar 14, 2012
    10
    I am SICK of all the hate! Duke Nukem forever IS NOT a better game, its user score is currently 5.8!?! That's terrible! ME3 is a great game, don't pay attention to all the b*tching. There are minor flaws in the game, it isn't perfect no game is. It deserves no less than an 8 for everything that Bioware put into it. The story is great, the gameplay is a rush, and the characters stickI am SICK of all the hate! Duke Nukem forever IS NOT a better game, its user score is currently 5.8!?! That's terrible! ME3 is a great game, don't pay attention to all the b*tching. There are minor flaws in the game, it isn't perfect no game is. It deserves no less than an 8 for everything that Bioware put into it. The story is great, the gameplay is a rush, and the characters stick out more then ever. I've gone through to the end and from start to finish the game was amazing. It makes me sick all of these people giving it a negative review. So overly critical of the game. Don't hate so much unless you're in the video game making industry yourself and you can do better.… Expand
  39. lotharz0r
    Mar 22, 2012
    9
    This game is brilliant. The changes made to the combat and overall feel of the game from Mass Effect 2 makes the game almost perfect. The story is great, and I also didn't mind the ending, like many others do. I didn't give it 10, because it seems like the dialogue towards the end does not really fit everywhere. Something is just not right. Other than this though, the game is brilliant!
  40. Conor1320
    Mar 25, 2012
    10
    Pay no attention to the negative user reviews. Fans are never pleased. The negative reviews only criticize one to two flaws in the game and render it a 0-2 rating... Just pathetic, how could you call yourselves fans? Why are you mad at Bioware? Is it because of the ending? First of all the ending is the work of the writer, the final 10 minutes is where the poor writing starts, and I admitPay no attention to the negative user reviews. Fans are never pleased. The negative reviews only criticize one to two flaws in the game and render it a 0-2 rating... Just pathetic, how could you call yourselves fans? Why are you mad at Bioware? Is it because of the ending? First of all the ending is the work of the writer, the final 10 minutes is where the poor writing starts, and I admit the ending was a letdown, but I still love BioWare and I still love ME3, so if you should criticize anyone then attack the writer regarding the final 10 minutes. Bioware has forged this magnificent story and lore for us all to enjoy and yet many of you attack them for minor details, I am ashamed to even think they are a part of the fanbase. Many loyal fans and I included still appreciate ME3 and all the story + lore shared by BioWare and I am not going to let some silly ending bring me down, give the scores the game deserves.… Expand
  41. Thorgunna
    Mar 16, 2012
    9
    I want so desperately to be able to give this game a 10 because I have been a huge fan of the series since ME1. I had never played any similar games before but after watching my husband play the first half hour of the first game I knew I needed to play it. Many years later and many playthroughs of each game later I had never been more excited for a game. This was the first game I'd everI want so desperately to be able to give this game a 10 because I have been a huge fan of the series since ME1. I had never played any similar games before but after watching my husband play the first half hour of the first game I knew I needed to play it. Many years later and many playthroughs of each game later I had never been more excited for a game. This was the first game I'd ever gone to a midnight release for. I actually took off two vacation days from work so I could play it to my heart's content without that pesky work obligation getting in the way. Then the ending hit me. I played through as a renegade first so I thought it might've just been because I made some terrible decisions, but then I played as a paragon and still the same disappointing endings. Even though the endings suck (and I still hope even though I know I shouldn't get my hopes up that it will be improved with DLC) the rest of the game was fantastic. I teared up and outright cried at some moments. Some had me giggling and texting my husband so he could have a laugh (he doesn't mind spoilers and I was also partially rubbing it in that I had finished two playthroughs before he finished his first). Spending all this time with my crew, I got attached. Again, even though the ending of ME3 leaves a lot to be desired I think it's a big compliment for Bioware that they were able to create characters that we feel deserve to have a proper ending. We want to know how their lives turned out. We care about them. So congrats to Bioware for creating such a wonderful universe. In the meantime I am making myself feel better about the endings by hanging out in the BSN forums and donating to Child's Play at http://retakemasseffect.chipin.com/retake-mass-effect-childs-play. The charity drive is open until April 11th 2012. If you're really upset about the ending of the game, don't spam negative ratings or spend your time trolling or flaming. Give some money to the children and I promise you'll feel better. I did.… Expand
  42. FrostAiden
    Apr 17, 2012
    9
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. Like many others, I was not "satisfied" with the ending, I felt that the ending was rushed and it did leave a bitter taste in my mouth, and making me not want to play the game anymore. But although it is a "RPG" about "YOUR" Shepard, I remember that there still is a plot and that some way of conclusion needed to be made and although it did end with thousands of loopholes and contradictions, I felt that the ending reminds me that choices cannot always have a "nice" outcome. And I almost forgot the amazing game experience the rest of the game had to offer, the emotion that drives you to choose what makes your character you. Also the amazing subplots are truly satisfying and felt that your choices really can make a difference. The romance in this game has also significantly improved over previous games, the characters act more "flirtatious" try to comfort each other, and show real intimacy in the actions they do. (I am a bit "iffy" about Tali's picture, but really she looks amazing, whether it's a copy or not, and I am glad to have romanced her). And to be honest the ending was not the best, yes... But to curse a game that gave so much more amazing and wonderful game play and experiences because of an ending where Bioware felt it ended the series.… Expand
  43. jusenkyo7
    Mar 17, 2012
    10
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. I think a lot of people miss the very fact that the amount of typeface that has been spilled on the ending simply proves what an amazing experience ME3 was. Even set against its two unbelievably immersive previous installments, the game is heartwrenching. It's not supposed to be easy: unlike the previous two installments, no matter how "well" you play, beloved companions will die: Mordin, Legion, Thane at the very least. The Ashley/Kaidan choice in ME1 doesn't compare, as you had not built nearly the same kind of relationships with either character at that point, never mind that the two are easily the least compelling ME characters in general.

    Which brings us to the ending: I am not just upset by the ending, I am heartbroken. I desperately want to know what happens next. Will Shepard get up from the rubble? Will she ever see Liara, or Garrus, or Tali, or __ ever again? What about the non-squadmates? I desperately hope the indoctrination hypothesis is correct, and I didn't really wipe out the Geth and Edi in order to end the Reaper threat. And thus, I sincerely hope there will be DLC (and soon!) to help me sleep a little better at night.

    But all this only proves what ME, and ME3 in particular, achieved. I can't think of another game or series where I could care so deeply about what happened to its characters.    … Expand
  44. rsimmo
    Mar 17, 2012
    9
    No previous video game series has previously affected me as much as the Mass Effect series. The first game set the series up and the second is my favourite ever game bringing the series forward with an epic storyline. This made the third in the series the most anticipated game ever for me and whilst playing through the story it duly delivered. The story sucks you in and keeps you asNo previous video game series has previously affected me as much as the Mass Effect series. The first game set the series up and the second is my favourite ever game bringing the series forward with an epic storyline. This made the third in the series the most anticipated game ever for me and whilst playing through the story it duly delivered. The story sucks you in and keeps you as enthralled if not more than the previous instalments and keeps you striving for more. However, as is mentioned all over the internet is the game's controversial end. I have to admit at first I was with the masses, angry and heartbroken that the series had done such a thing to me. However, is everything as it seems at the end? If looked at and analysed in detail the ending could be seen as incredibly clever and not just sloppy and with potential downloadable content maybe the story of mass effect is set to continue some more. The multiplayer is another new edition to the series and while it may be limited to the single mode of multiplayer it is addictive and keeps you wanting more. All in all the game is definitely one of the most memorable of all time and if rumours of an expanded ending are true it could go down as one of the best games of all time.… Expand
  45. Corvallis
    Mar 17, 2012
    10
    I'm just shocked that players hate the endings so much that they rate this game so low !!! I mean I'm a huge fan of the series, played the first 10 times, the second 22 times, read all the books well you see what I mean. The game is a blast : the cutscenes are way better than in the second lesser bugs, a gameplay that is more playable. Mass Effect 2 without its background and everythingI'm just shocked that players hate the endings so much that they rate this game so low !!! I mean I'm a huge fan of the series, played the first 10 times, the second 22 times, read all the books well you see what I mean. The game is a blast : the cutscenes are way better than in the second lesser bugs, a gameplay that is more playable. Mass Effect 2 without its background and everything would be a pretty **** TPS. Even the questlines are not so great I mean just going to a planet searching for a new squadmate then talk to him and he gives you a quest you do it and once you finished it you realize : well I destroyed the collectors and I fought them 3-4 times even if they are the main enemies ! The mercenaries seem to be the real ennemy in this game ! In the third well it's still not perfect less choices of missions and not many different ennemies, sure it feels it lacks something but I really enjoyed the game it is quite long (on Insanity maybe) 36h to finish everything so I think it is not short for TPS standards, we see old friends, we have a lot of weapons to choose, better armor parts than in the second, we can upgrade weapons without having to search for damn minerals in planet scannings that take hours from you don't get any satisfaction, the storyline is well driven to the end at least we understand what is happening except in the ending. I regret that the game is too action oriented sure but still the game is way better than many of the games we can see released today ! So I'm not getting too much in the details but I want to say that OK the endings are quite disappointing it is not what I expected at all for the ending but you can't think that this game is worse than DNF or less good than Modern Warfare 3 ! I don't want to troll but guys ! Realize what you're saying ! You have the right to be disappointed I totally agree with you guys but don't put a so low rating for this game just because of an ending ! I chose to rate it 10 just because some people think that because of a ending it deserves 1 or 0 ! I would put 8 or 9 I still prefer the second one but the third is a good game not a bad one at all and think that maybe a fourth game will justify the endings. Let's hope it is not a DLC. To conclude this : It is a really good game, worthy of being in the series but with an ending that is not as good than we could expect. Also the dialogues are too simple (two choices most of the time which is not much) and EA did not help to make the game better with **** as Online pass, Day One DLC, future DLC plans. The game could have used 1 more year of development because it ends a trilogy that many loved. So if the game was disappointing to you blame EA first they choose the release date and the time of work put into the game.… Expand
  46. WWWYKI
    Mar 17, 2012
    8
    Arguably the best game I've ever played. The combat is better and the writing is top notch (until the end). The ending left such a bad taste in my mouth that it sort of ruined the whole franchise for me. Other problems include your character talking too much without your input and some characters from Mass Effect 2 do not receive the recognition they deserve. Still a great game, but IArguably the best game I've ever played. The combat is better and the writing is top notch (until the end). The ending left such a bad taste in my mouth that it sort of ruined the whole franchise for me. Other problems include your character talking too much without your input and some characters from Mass Effect 2 do not receive the recognition they deserve. Still a great game, but I believe Mass Effect deserved better than what we got.… Expand
  47. bup487
    Mar 17, 2012
    8
    Bioware managed to avoid the pitfalls of unnecessary exploration, puzzle games, and resource gathering that made the past two entries in the Mass Effect trilogy hard to play and, more importantly, replay. The inclusion of all the extra side missions took the place of the aforementioned pitfalls that nearly ruined the past two games. These side missions are frustrating when you need to lookBioware managed to avoid the pitfalls of unnecessary exploration, puzzle games, and resource gathering that made the past two entries in the Mass Effect trilogy hard to play and, more importantly, replay. The inclusion of all the extra side missions took the place of the aforementioned pitfalls that nearly ruined the past two games. These side missions are frustrating when you need to look at a website to figure out where to get the correct quest item, but this solution is not nearly as bad as strip mining every known planet in the galaxy.

    The rising action that leads up to the final battle is intense enough to bring out many emotions during the final battle. These feelings carry on to the very end where the player has to make a final choice. To keep the player guessing, many of these choices aren't explained. You'll ask yourself what choice is best overall.

    It is understandable that players felt betrayed by the ending that was presented. All the choices that were to have a massive effect went off like a roman candle instead of a nuclear bomb; personally, I WAS MORE INTERESTED IN THE REAPERS AND WHY THEY WERE KILLING LIFE THAN WHETHER OR NOT MY CHOICES HAD AN IMPACT.

    I'm more invested in the story, you could say.

    As for the content of the ending,    … Expand
  48. Blocksss
    Mar 18, 2012
    10
    what is there to say after 3 very succesfull games Bioware closes the Mass effect trilogy, i only had 2 irritating points in the game.
    1: that all the alian races you had as shepperd in part 2 are gone...
    2: the multiplayer, i cant tell why but i play mass effect for the story,i think the multiplayer is just a sniffing extra and i hope the creators will know that real mass effect fans    what is there to say after 3 very succesfull games Bioware closes the Mass effect trilogy, i only had 2 irritating points in the game.
    1: that all the alian races you had as shepperd in part 2 are gone...
    2: the multiplayer, i cant tell why but i play mass effect for the story,i think the multiplayer is just a sniffing extra and i hope the creators will know that real mass effect fans rather buy more missions than multiplayer maps.
    but i dont think i need to be to negative Bioware has closed 1 of my favorite games, and i enjoyed every second of it.    … Expand
  49. reVICES
    Mar 19, 2012
    9
    Mass Effect 3, as a whole, lives up to the hype of what the ground breaking series has given us so far. The game improves upon its predecessor in almost every way, however it falls short on a few aspects that make this game not the perfect ten it could have been.

    One aspect that this entry greatly improves upon is the combat. You now have many more ways to strategically take down your    Mass Effect 3, as a whole, lives up to the hype of what the ground breaking series has given us so far. The game improves upon its predecessor in almost every way, however it falls short on a few aspects that make this game not the perfect ten it could have been.

    One aspect that this entry greatly improves upon is the combat. You now have many more ways to strategically take down your foes. With the additions of combat rolls and jumping from cover to cover gives you opportunities to dodge devastating enemy attacks and to close in on opponents in ways that were never possible before. Weapons customization gives you the possibility of making combat situations more personalized to the individual gamer's weaknesses, an element that was removed entirely from the second installment. Another great addition is the use of the Xbox 360's Kinect device. The player can now literately shout commands to their squad mates in the heat of battle. Although, one negative can be found in this during the use of the dialogue wheel. If you are having a conversation with someone in the room with you, it may recognize what you say as one of the options, and it could possibly select an undesired choice. Also, I've noticed that it sometimes will pick up conversations from the game itself, and the microphone icon will flash. Melee combat is better evolved but can sometimes be glitch resulting in missing your target entirely.

    On to the RPG elements of the game next. Much like the combat, many improvements were made here, that cannot be said for all aspects though, and this is the root of many of the game's shortcomings. The skill tree in this installment is much larger and includes unique options that were not seen in the previous installments, giving players additional options to think about while leveling their characters.

    The dialogue in the game seems to have taken a major hit from the previous installments. The voice acting was done very well but it doesn't make up for the lack of conversation options throughout the game. In the previous installments you can talk to all of your squad members in between missions and develop the way you want your Shepard to treat that squad member. However, in Mass Effect 3 they have greatly limited these encounters in some cases to one or two times you can choose what to say to your party. It's possible that the creators thought that talking to every party member in between missions was tedious, but developing the individuality of your Shepard is what made the series so ingenious.

    Another RPG element that took a hit in the finale is the side missions. A vast majority of what would've been called "assignments" in the previous installments are nothing but fetch quests in this game. As you travel the Citadel, you will overhear many conversations, and many of them Shepard believes he should take it upon himself to help them. These always require you to fly to system and start scanning, or go to the Spectre Requisitions and just buy something. Despite it helping your overall mission, many of these just come off as unnecessary annoyances.

    The reputation system within the game also seems to have taken a hit since its predecessor. Overall, it almost just seems like it was removed entirely with the exception of a few key decisions. Lastly, the biggest criticism of the game so far, the endings. Theories aside, if they are intended to be interpreted literately this is a major short coming. None of the endings really give the player any closure for a series that many people have participated in from the series beginning. Despite that, one of the selling points of the series is that every choice you make matters. The few endings of the game are all preset and none of the choices Shepard has made effect the ending, taking away any individuality you've given your Shepard throughout the span of the series. Perhaps these issues will be addressed in the near future, and this negative point will no longer be necessary.

    Despite the controversy surrounding the endings, the day one downloadable content, the completely optional same-sex relationship possibilities, this game does deserve universal acclaim. If it wasn't for the few short comings, this would be strongest entry in an already very well done series.    … Expand
  50. ursa1979
    Mar 20, 2012
    10
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. I loved this game. For me the best part of the game was the care with which it dealt with the characters that you have grown to love over the course of the 3 games. Each character mission was great (some better than others), but it was the moment at the end where you had a chance to say goodbye to each that really shined. To me this was the true ending. Regarding the "actual" end that has been creating all of the hubbub, I personally that it was solid and interesting. The fact that despite all of your choices (paragon/renegade), which are deeply felt throughout the story, ultimately lead to the same final choice is an interesting take on the concept of destiny/fate. Furthermore, while the three results of the final choice were aesthetically similar (modified color palates), they were dramatically disparate in substance and result in wildly different universes.… Expand
  51. Plaidman86
    Mar 20, 2012
    8
    I thoroughly enjoy the Mass Effect series and I absolutely could not wait to see what was in store for the galaxy with the foreboding presence of the imminent Reaper invasion and all out extermination of all the organic races. This game had so much building up, so much hype, and at first glance all was going so well...until the ending. First off I do say this game has many improvementsI thoroughly enjoy the Mass Effect series and I absolutely could not wait to see what was in store for the galaxy with the foreboding presence of the imminent Reaper invasion and all out extermination of all the organic races. This game had so much building up, so much hype, and at first glance all was going so well...until the ending. First off I do say this game has many improvements from ME2 (storywise and gameplay), I love it how there's more RPG element (leveling, skill trees) and the weapon modding was a very nice welcome which allows you to tailor your guns to different situations. I loved all the cameo appearances from squad mates past and present as well as other characters encountered in past games and including DLC which was very nice. The controls actually seemed a bit worse than 2, I've died so many times due to squad mates being in the way and non-responsive controls. It got really irritating moving from cover to cover or peaking out and being punished for the game having a good 1-2 second delay. I noticed that Shepard can now vault or tumble like Gears of War (I forget if he could do that in 2...) and it seems like Bioware really likes Gears. The galaxy map was just about the same as 2's minus scanning for minerals/resources and having a set amount of probes. However, because the Reapers are out and about it can make scanning annoying. I also liked it how you didn't have a billion squad mates to pick from like 2, and I'm glad to see 3 took a notion of quality vs. quantity. As for the story, I could feel from the start of the game how dark the situation was, and how close the galaxy was to coming closer and closer to failure and ultimate extinction. It got a little irritating dealing with Cerberus a good half of the game, I mean really who is the focus here? Cerberus or the Reapers? Although it was interesting to hear about the humans fighting against themselves as opposed to working together. I also liked making choices to bring the other races together. I thought the story flowed very well, much better than 2's "out of nowhere" plot. Everything just kept building up, but then the ending came... Yes, I do have to hop on the growing band wagon and agree that the ending to ME3 was really not that good. I don't have a problem with the three choices you are presented with at the end and that Shepard dies (so sad and sucks he dies!) but I have a major problem with how short the ending is and the lack of closure on all the supporting characters and the general fate and conclusion of the Mass Effect universe. Not to mention I was also greatly disappointed to see, or NOT see, how my preparations for the final assault didn't even make a difference. I was fairly certain I heard Admiral Hackett go from saying, "We're bogged down" to "We're about even" so I figured maybe this would impact the final mission or ending, but it didn't! So did I make all those choices and finish all those side quests for nothing? I felt nothing but emptiness when the game ended, it reminded me of early reviews of Halo 2 and how many reviewers commented on how the ending left you wanting more. Unfortunately for this series there is no more to be had as it's the last to the trilogy. I find it interesting hearing that the overall dissatisfaction with ME3's ending by many, MANY fans has been well heard, and some has gone so far as to raise a charity to bring awareness and change to 3's ending! Of course Bioware is listening but so far they're saying they have no plans to alter the ending but to only support 3 with future DLC. (Sigh...) I really want to rate this game a 10 as it was enjoyable to play, but the ending just ruins it, especially since your choices and quests during the game have no effect. Because of that, I'm actually having a hard time playing through the game again because I now know whatever I do on the side won't make a difference and won't reward me with extra cutscenes, dialogue, etc. I almost wanna rate this game a 7 but I think that would be a bit steep. Had this game had a perfect ending I would have given it a 10. But that bad ending just creates one hell of a void that really just hampers everything else this game has to offer, and I say all this because this game is an RPG and RPGs are supposed to have critical character and plot development. Overall, good game but not what I had in mind to close such a wonderful series. Here's to hoping future DLC will improve what faults there are.… Expand
  52. Boozerz
    Mar 20, 2012
    10
    I really enjoyed the game. The gripes about the ending have been blown way out of proportion. Throughout the entire single player campaign we get closure and resolution for many of the character/story arcs. The ending is a great hardcore sci-fi resolution. This trilogy will be remembered as one of the greats.
  53. cdog
    Mar 20, 2012
    9
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. This game is an absolutely fantastic experience and great achievement in sci-fi gaming, or at least the first 99% is. The endings are not as bad as most people say, but they are disappointing and are not fulfilling, and really do not give enough closure. There is little difference between any of them, however I do not think it is fair to say your decisions do not matter. Your decisions give war assets, which affect whether or not earth survives. Apart from the disappointing endings, this is the best game in the series. The characters feel more alive and are more fleshed out, the writing (endings excluded) is up there with the quality shown in Mass Effect 1, the gunplay is better then ever, and the universe as a whole is as great as in all the other titles. There are some stunning moments, and also some very emotional moments-a lot of work has been put into creating this epic experience, and there are some very difficult choices along the way. There is no way such a great game deserves 0/10, endings or not, this game is great.

    There are some other flaws. The importing issue and auto-dialogue are both issues, although auto-dialogue is only really in combat missions. It is not nearly as bad as you might expect, though it does make shep feel a tad more pre-defined. (although he already is quite pre-defined) The only real hub is the citadel, but it's a decent hub. Side quests could be better. The day one DLC was also a cheap shot, and soured the taste a bit.

    All in all, these are fairly minor things. This game is brilliant. The only reason I am not giving 10'/10 are the disappointing endings, which is a shame, because this series, and this game, are so good that they really deserve better. If the endings were corrected, this would get the score it deserves.    … Expand
  54. WeenieHutJrs
    Mar 21, 2012
    10
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. Ok Mass Effect one of the best game franchises of all time delivered another outstanding game. Minus the less than stellar ending that we all wanted it, the game was fantastic. The action set pieces had me jumping out of my seat. (i.e. the part on Rannoch when you go head to head with a reaper) The story was always engaging and I never skipped a conversation. The multiplayer is fun for what it is but Mass Effect is all about single player. There were a few bugs like pauses between talking with people and enemies stuck in the ground. The overall experience is great and i hope this gets several GOTY awards.… Expand
  55. Johng4
    May 4, 2013
    8
    This is the first mass effect game i have ever played. In short i like it. I have not officially beaten the game but i have played it enough to get the gist of how the game runs. One thing so far i do not like about the game is i just hit disc two and i have done two sections so far in the game where i actually get to shoot things, in between that time are two very long and drawn out partsThis is the first mass effect game i have ever played. In short i like it. I have not officially beaten the game but i have played it enough to get the gist of how the game runs. One thing so far i do not like about the game is i just hit disc two and i have done two sections so far in the game where i actually get to shoot things, in between that time are two very long and drawn out parts where you talk to people on the citadel to recruit new members for the alliance and get resources for the war and get to know the characters, at first i didnt mind then i thought,, hmm i wanna shoot stuff. And the shooting and combat is something i really like about this game its fluid fast and fun and you have alot of options going into batlle. You have your standard stuff like guns and stuff but you also have powers and abilities as do your aliies which you can direct them to do at any given time after the cooldown. The story is good even to someone who hasnt been with the series for the whole ride it does a decent job of getting you up to speed of whats going on, since i havnt played the other mass effects(yet) its safe to say im not getting the whole experience because im pretty sure if had played one and two my decisions in those two games wouldve made the experience completeley different for me because thats how things work in mass effect, your desicions. Over all i like this game and i hate to see all these people knocking it because they didnt like the ending thats not a factor in a game that should determine whether or not it is good or not… Expand
  56. dzy
    Apr 24, 2012
    8
    First off, I understand the hate people have for Mass Effect 3's ending. All the time put into it, getting to know the story and characters only to end up with a problematic ending. For me, I did not hate or love the ending. To be honest I thought it was pretty funny how it ended. It was completely random and unexpected. I'm pretty sure I had a confused smile on my face as I was wrappingFirst off, I understand the hate people have for Mass Effect 3's ending. All the time put into it, getting to know the story and characters only to end up with a problematic ending. For me, I did not hate or love the ending. To be honest I thought it was pretty funny how it ended. It was completely random and unexpected. I'm pretty sure I had a confused smile on my face as I was wrapping up my journey. Anyway, ignoring the ending portion... the game is great. Great gameplay, great cut scenes, and a good story.… Expand
  57. Darkleliel
    Mar 30, 2012
    10
    I thoroughly enjoyed this game and thought it was an amazing conclusion to an amazing series. I couldn't help but feel how I was an active part of each and every step, and because of it it made every aspect of the game that much more enjoyable.
  58. IAmRasputin
    Mar 30, 2012
    10
    Absolute perfection. Until the last 5 minutes, this game surpasses everything that its predecessors were, and then some. The ending is a downer (and not in a good way), but that doesn't tke away from the appeal of the game or the series.

    10/10, would bang.
  59. guammybear07
    Mar 31, 2012
    10
    Here is a re-post from the site, http://jmstevenson.wordpress.com/2012/03/22/all-that-matters-is-the-ending-part-2-mass-effect-3/, of what I think was the most glaring problem with the ending. He provides an excellent analogy without actually spoiling the ending.
    Imagine Frodo, dangling the One Ring, over the fiery chasm of Mt. Doom. He turns, and says,
  60. shaun8pickles
    Jun 14, 2013
    10
    I LOVED this game, and I LOVE this series, and it so sad that people on here writing reviews (most of them writing their first review?) are still complaining about the ending. I have played through this series 3 times. I have had a fair share of hours in this series. It's not fair to review its game on %1 of it package. Mass Effect 3 has everything, the lip syncing in this game is amazing,I LOVED this game, and I LOVE this series, and it so sad that people on here writing reviews (most of them writing their first review?) are still complaining about the ending. I have played through this series 3 times. I have had a fair share of hours in this series. It's not fair to review its game on %1 of it package. Mass Effect 3 has everything, the lip syncing in this game is amazing, the gun-play is awesome, the monsters are better than ever, and the soundtrack is memorizing. I am and always will be a fan of this series. And its sad to see "so called fans" review this game on just its ending, they really did everything they can to fix it. The Extended Cut DLC was great, and real fans wouldn't ditch a game just because of one thing. Seriously, this game has it all for space fans. I seriously recommend going and picking up the trilogy for those who haven't played all three or are new comers.… Expand
  61. viegasn
    Apr 13, 2012
    9
    This is a great series, unfortunately this final chapter lays much to lose in two crucial moments, the beginning and end of the game. Since the beginning in my opinion the worst moment of the game, and the end is extremely short, not correctly explain the many existing questions, and the player's previous choices are irrevelantes.
    Continues to be a fantastic game, enriched by multiplayer,    This is a great series, unfortunately this final chapter lays much to lose in two crucial moments, the beginning and end of the game. Since the beginning in my opinion the worst moment of the game, and the end is extremely short, not correctly explain the many existing questions, and the player's previous choices are irrevelantes.
    Continues to be a fantastic game, enriched by multiplayer, but they put too much to lose the final common poorly done.    … Expand
  62. sup3lolzx
    Apr 18, 2012
    9
    BEST GAME EVER until the end... Mass Effect 3 i the best si-fi story out there. its so inmersive the characters, the universe, your Shepard, you care and love evry thing and evry one. it haves about 20-28 hours of gameplay if you take your time, if you just play the main missions is about 10-13 hours.
    the gameplay is the best of the series and the cinematics and voice actiing is the best    BEST GAME EVER until the end... Mass Effect 3 i the best si-fi story out there. its so inmersive the characters, the universe, your Shepard, you care and love evry thing and evry one. it haves about 20-28 hours of gameplay if you take your time, if you just play the main missions is about 10-13 hours.
    the gameplay is the best of the series and the cinematics and voice actiing is the best there is.
    Down side
    You have much lees squad members than in ME2 and one of them is a day ONE dlc
    The ending
    OK the ending is full of plotholes, imagine if The Lord Of The Rings would have ended when frodo was about to destroy the ring. and thats it it dosent tell you WTF happend to you, your friends your romance(if you have one), you flet... NOTHING and its EAs fault, the made the game end in a cliffhanger so you buy the next DLC or game is BS i can take the lack of squadmates since when you interact with your squadmates its more intresting than in ME1 or 2 but that ending makes you not want to play the game agin... i went on a FULL ON RAGE QUIT deleted my first save started a new one and not going to finish it agin until the extended cut DLC and hope that the next gamplay DLC it isint pre-end DLC like ME1
    HOLD THE LINE ask for a well explaind ending with no plot holes and pos-ending DLC and more gameplay like in ME2 where you can keep playing after finishing the game. my hope is still up dont give the game a bad score just becuse of the last 10 minutes, they can still fix it , its not like if the problem was gameplay or the whole story its JUST THE LAST 10 MINUTES THAT WE WANT FIXED Bioware
    Have a nice day, and play Multiplayer witch is GREAT until the Extended cut comes out and see whats nex for Our Commander Shepard    … Expand
  63. shoewee
    May 3, 2012
    10
    This is really a great game. I was amazed at how well done the game is and I love the gameplay! Highly highly recommended! Go out and get this game today!
  64. Naapuri
    May 6, 2012
    10
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. An awesome game! The strange "flaws" in the ending must mean there is more to this story coming on. It is a shame that the choices you made during the trilogy didnt count in the ending but whatever, i loved the feeling of making choices. After all this was one of the best gaming experiences i have had… Expand
  65. SCHMOOPITIZE
    May 13, 2012
    9
    This game is ginormous, so rating it poorly based over the last twenty minutes is kind of...pointless. In truth, the beginning of the game is fantastic, straight into the action, the middle classic Mass Effect with a more action-y twist on combat. The game-play is smooth and responsive and so far, it's the only time i ever used my Kinect. I found myself actually BEING commander shepherdThis game is ginormous, so rating it poorly based over the last twenty minutes is kind of...pointless. In truth, the beginning of the game is fantastic, straight into the action, the middle classic Mass Effect with a more action-y twist on combat. The game-play is smooth and responsive and so far, it's the only time i ever used my Kinect. I found myself actually BEING commander shepherd when i talked FOR HIM! The multi-player while unneeded doesn't feel tacked on. Which is a good thing as too many games try that these days. However, i'm worried about a multi-player focused DLC situation. SUMMARY- Story is overall superb, it's beautiful, a multi-player worth talking about and shouting commands to squad mates is insanely fun!… Expand
  66. micahbyrd
    May 14, 2012
    10
    All I am going to say is that I have played every minute of available content that BIoware has made for this entire series, like many others. I feel robbed by the ending, true, but more importantly, this is quite simply the most amazing gaming experience I can think of. Period. If people want to hate on the ending that is their choice, but that doesn't change the fact that this game is theAll I am going to say is that I have played every minute of available content that BIoware has made for this entire series, like many others. I feel robbed by the ending, true, but more importantly, this is quite simply the most amazing gaming experience I can think of. Period. If people want to hate on the ending that is their choice, but that doesn't change the fact that this game is the perfect cap to over 100 hours of game play. Simply astounding!… Expand
  67. Valiant4Funk
    May 15, 2012
    9
    If you can get past all the controversy about the ending, it's a really fun game! After two previous games, the developers really got this game right. Not too complex, but plenty of customization and choice. Really fun combat. And a story that is mostly great!
  68. lilrizky
    May 15, 2012
    10
    Say what you want, but this game is truly a work of art and an experience that has never before seen in gaming. The lore was well implemented, the action was so much better. The only complaint i had that ME2 did better was the actual side-missions and loyalty missions were much more interesting and versatile. Other than that, the game combined the best of its two predecessors and throughSay what you want, but this game is truly a work of art and an experience that has never before seen in gaming. The lore was well implemented, the action was so much better. The only complaint i had that ME2 did better was the actual side-missions and loyalty missions were much more interesting and versatile. Other than that, the game combined the best of its two predecessors and through importing my character from ME1, i have never felt a sense of accomplishment, adventure, pride and triumph. Well done bioware, i would watch this on a big screen over Star Trek and Star Wars any day.… Expand
  69. Giarc1982
    May 16, 2012
    10
    Excellent game full of depth, faithfully remembers choices made in Mass Effect 1 & 2 making each playthough a new experience. Choices made in this and past games colour the game but make no mistake about it, this is Shepards story, one way or another s/he will stop the Reapers
    Depth is represented more in this game by the way it reflect legacy choices, One example is that one run through    Excellent game full of depth, faithfully remembers choices made in Mass Effect 1 & 2 making each playthough a new experience. Choices made in this and past games colour the game but make no mistake about it, this is Shepards story, one way or another s/he will stop the Reapers
    Depth is represented more in this game by the way it reflect legacy choices, One example is that one run through may be involve Mordin and Wrex yet on a different import Evolutionist Salarian Wiks and Wreave Wrex's half brother.
    Multiplayer is fun addition although it not essential to play it for the single player campain, general wave based attack awarded weapon packs as rewards. As for the ending I think most of the controversy is due to "fans" over reacting to an ending that sets the mass effect universe up for subsequent adventures, how the Extended Cut changes this will be intresting.    … Expand
  70. lumzi23
    Mar 3, 2014
    9
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. First of all, let me say that Mass Effect fans are among the worst in gaming. Not all, but the sheer number of entitled malcontents that are part of the fan base is surprising.

    Anyway, the is probably my favourite game in what any honest ME fan would admit is a flawed series. ME1 had flaws. ME2 had flaws. And yes, ME3 has flaws as well.

    Still though, with its flaws (the main one being its ending), it is in my opinion the best in the series. It surpasses the previous games in combat (mostly), it has the best level design and AI is unsurpassed by any in the series. Visually, it is the best as well. Art wise, it is ahead of ME1 and completely spanks ME2. Technically, it stomps the first game and beats the second (though not in all areas).

    The story was mostly glorious before the last few minutes. I agree that one or two scenes were a bit manipulative but generally when the game made me feel, it did so skilfully. And feel I did. I won't go into details but the experience was epic.

    One of the statements that baffles me the most is how people can claim the game was rushed and not do so for the incredibly rough first game. Mass Effect 2 was probably most consistent game in the series in terms of levels of polish (though not perfect) but Mass Effect 3 is not far behind. I mean, Shepard's last adventure is a gloriously confident affair. Beautiful designs everywhere from the levels to the characters to the weapons and armour. It is freaking gorgeous. The cinematic storytelling is incredible: a landmark for the series and Bioware. The character performances, while lacking some of the subtlety of those in ME1, is better overall. The characters themselves, while not as detailed as the cast of the first game, make up for it in sheer likeability/charisma (except for Kaiden who is still sucky).

    It has some flaws.

    Those meaningless little planet scanning missions are kind of tedious. Fewer missions that were more substantial would have been better that the deluge of crap we got around the middle of the game.

    The whole EMS thing was not fully realized. I like the idea of a war room scenario where you monitor various assets but it was badly implemented. The tie in to the ending choices was unnecessary.

    While I will say that the levels are the best in the series, some of the missions aren't fun (or at least aren't fun to replay). It might be a level design thing partly but mostly I think that scenario's for some of these missions while sensible might be best summarized. This is not nearly as bad as the loathing I feel for any mission level in ME1 outside of the Citadel but it could be better. ME2's missions are generally fun to play and replay (though some might rightly call the levels Gear of Wars-ey).

    And now the big one. The ending. Ah. The moments leading up to it were great. From the assault on London, to the final goodbyes, to the excellent confrontation with the Illusive Man on the ruined Citadel. It was all fantastic. By the time I hear Hackett's voice, tinged with uncertainty regarding the Crucible's explicable inertness I am already so wrapped in the game, that all claims about the games awful ending seem rather unlikely.

    Unlikely, but true. The ending sucks. I can't really remember much of the conversation that takes place but it was definitely a downer and on some level I recognize that it has done some damage to the universe. Not because of inconsistencies with the rest of the series (those mostly only affect the released games) but because of how it cast it's shadow on the future games games due to the dramatic changes it makes to the universe. They could be good changes but they need to be treated skilfully and with imagination (especially in the case of the 'synthesis' option). In any case, it is going to be a different Mass Effect from the one we know (potential very much so depending which choices become canon). Like if Star Trek effectively became BSG or some other similarly excessive change.

    Outside of the massively disappointing ending and those other minor quibbles the game is a class act and the best in the series, as far as I am concerned.    … Expand
  71. Fullmetal
    May 20, 2012
    10
    I have to address the elephant in the room. Many of the users who gave this game a negative review might not have understood what the ending signified. With that said, I will not reveal here what it means. That is for those who complete the game and have questions to try and solve. The fact of the matter is that this game had such a large scale of intergalactic drama that it was byfar theI have to address the elephant in the room. Many of the users who gave this game a negative review might not have understood what the ending signified. With that said, I will not reveal here what it means. That is for those who complete the game and have questions to try and solve. The fact of the matter is that this game had such a large scale of intergalactic drama that it was byfar the best Mass Effect to date. The amount of time invested in the game was a complete payoff to what I discovered about the end of the game. The fact that fans didn't understand the ending is a problem though. Hopefully, Bioware will release something to let everyone know what I discovered after looking into the game deeper. I'm not going to bash anyone who didn't like the game, but I urge them to wait and see. It really is an intelligent ending to a game. Just look at Knights of the Old Republic 2's ending. It was a total WTF moment, and fans really didn't freak out about that. If you want an ending that isn't roses and tulips, play this one to the end. Go on game help sites to figure out how to get the best ending. You won't regret it.… Expand
  72. Hippie2000
    May 18, 2012
    9
    Ending aside, this is a beautiful game, good looking, great voiceacting, great illusion of choice, one of the best gaming worlds ever to be created. I even accept the ending.
  73. Dr2Bricks
    May 19, 2012
    10
    Some of the reviews on here are ludicrous. OK the last 15 minutes of at 30+ hour single player campaign may not appeal to everyone, but the rest of it is brilliant, stunning and engaging. This tops off the best ever game series. Add to this that the multiplayer element is more fun than you can shake a stick at. I'm not one for CoD online as I get pasted but this team based multiplayer gameSome of the reviews on here are ludicrous. OK the last 15 minutes of at 30+ hour single player campaign may not appeal to everyone, but the rest of it is brilliant, stunning and engaging. This tops off the best ever game series. Add to this that the multiplayer element is more fun than you can shake a stick at. I'm not one for CoD online as I get pasted but this team based multiplayer game provides a fantastic alternative. I for one am re-playing the main campaign as a different class (oh yes, not a solder this time but a biotic with jedi knight like powers). After that maybe as an engineer. There's so much that's good about this game that no one should let the criticism of the game ending put you off.

    If you've not played 1 and 2 then by all means buy them, as they give context to this game, but it does work on it's own. The Mass Effect franchise has eaten up a very enjoyable 200+ hours of my life.    … Expand
  74. Daedulos
    May 22, 2012
    9
    i have to say that i really did enjoy the demo when it first came out, and i really loved it when i got my hands on the limited edition of the game. the game play was solid, voice acting was perfect, graphics were tight, and the story just flowed with the series. im not saying that did not have any flaws though (which every game does have by the way), but i did feel that i didnt get thei have to say that i really did enjoy the demo when it first came out, and i really loved it when i got my hands on the limited edition of the game. the game play was solid, voice acting was perfect, graphics were tight, and the story just flowed with the series. im not saying that did not have any flaws though (which every game does have by the way), but i did feel that i didnt get the choices i really wanted at the end of it, and i would have prefered that the campaign's success did not rely on the multiplayer, which was good enough as it is, but all and all i couldnt help but fall in love with the game again, i only hope more people get to experience it too.… Expand
  75. Phategod1
    May 26, 2012
    9
    I know this is supposed to a review but in all honestly I must express my dissatisfaction and disgust with these cretins who consider themselves fans. They do not deserve a game with the quality of Mass Effect. All these 7and below rating are disingenuous and knee jerk reactions to not getting what they wanted.
  76. braddogg623
    May 31, 2012
    9
    The ending . . . ugh. If you're checking Metacritic, you know the flaws of the ending of Mass Effect 3. It's a crime. But, the journey to the ending is tremendous, and the people giving a low rating to ME3 tend to focus on the last 10 minutes rather than the first 30 hours of the game. ME3 hits the balance between action and RPG: ME1 was nuts-and-bolts RPG (modding your guns took hoursThe ending . . . ugh. If you're checking Metacritic, you know the flaws of the ending of Mass Effect 3. It's a crime. But, the journey to the ending is tremendous, and the people giving a low rating to ME3 tend to focus on the last 10 minutes rather than the first 30 hours of the game. ME3 hits the balance between action and RPG: ME1 was nuts-and-bolts RPG (modding your guns took hours in total if you wanted to make a difference in gun performance), ME2 was very action-oriented (simplistic leveling system, minimal weapon upgrading, though the side quests mechanics of crew loyalty hinted at RPG roots). In ME3, you have the opportunity to really create a character with the combat strengths and weaknesses you desire. The shooter mechanics in ME3 were also very good. Despite some trouble grasping the cover system early on, I was able to complete the game on Insanity (high-level adept class imported from ME1 & ME2) without much difficulty, but with a lot of patience. The game featured more cut-scenes than I was accustomed to seeing in a Mass Effect game, which was disappointing, but the cut-scenes were good graphically and fit the general expectation I had of my Shepard. In short, ME3 is a good blending of ME1's RPG focus and ME2's action focus. I hated the ending, but I still give this game a 9/10. Especially if you played ME1 and ME2, you'll love ME3 except for the last 15 minutes. Stay tuned for free DLC to fix that ending, too.… Expand
  77. BARONvonVOLTAGE
    Jun 5, 2012
    10
    the mass effect trilogy comes to an end, sadly. this game is much improved on the first two, controls are easier, the game is fluid and not glitchy, the story ebbs and flows as fast or slow as you like. the multiplayer is a welcome addition, if a little shortlived (more on the way). the only thing that really let this down was the quite terrible ending. after playing as shepherd for maybethe mass effect trilogy comes to an end, sadly. this game is much improved on the first two, controls are easier, the game is fluid and not glitchy, the story ebbs and flows as fast or slow as you like. the multiplayer is a welcome addition, if a little shortlived (more on the way). the only thing that really let this down was the quite terrible ending. after playing as shepherd for maybe 60-70 hours over the three games i really expected a clearer more defined ending.… Expand
  78. DETHREAPER
    Jun 10, 2012
    10
    The most brilliant game to be made yet. The story lived up to, and even set the bar higher for what a science fiction story could do. The perfect mix of philosophy, analytical thought, and emotion present created something no other story has been able to achieve, and that is perfection. To be fair, video games aren't just about story, no matter the level of brilliance, but gameplay also.The most brilliant game to be made yet. The story lived up to, and even set the bar higher for what a science fiction story could do. The perfect mix of philosophy, analytical thought, and emotion present created something no other story has been able to achieve, and that is perfection. To be fair, video games aren't just about story, no matter the level of brilliance, but gameplay also. That being said, Mass Effect 3 is a paradigm of an RPG shooter, which again, set the bar higher for others. On another note, I was a bit leery about the soundtrack when I heard that Jack Wall was leaving, but as soon as I heard what Clint Mansell had to present, my fears were assuaged; as usual, he has masterfully orchestrated pieces that contribute to mood and emotion, while sticking to the roots of the series' sound. With Mass Effect 3, there is literally nothing I can think of that could be improved or changed, as perfection cannot be improved upon any further.… Expand
  79. Candidustigris
    Jul 31, 2012
    10
    I just beat the game with the improved endings. While they still don't satisfy me completely, it is a massive improvement from the original endings. This game is amazing, and with the addition of the new endings, its quality has improved dramatically for me.
  80. Orcson1
    Jun 27, 2012
    9
    Mass Effect 3 was a triumph.... Until the final 5 minutes. But now, even those 5 minutes are a triumph. With the new FREE Extended Cut DLC, Bioware has improved the endings greatly and brought this game to full and utter greatness. The writing is phenomenal, the voice work is amazing, and gameplay is fun and easy to use. The graphics are a little outdated, but that doesn't matter, becauseMass Effect 3 was a triumph.... Until the final 5 minutes. But now, even those 5 minutes are a triumph. With the new FREE Extended Cut DLC, Bioware has improved the endings greatly and brought this game to full and utter greatness. The writing is phenomenal, the voice work is amazing, and gameplay is fun and easy to use. The graphics are a little outdated, but that doesn't matter, because everything else shines. Mass Effect 3 was one of the greatest gaming experiences I have ever had the pleasure of playing through, and I'd highly recommend it to anyone.… Expand
  81. Chaoswind
    Jun 28, 2012
    8
    The EC changed this game from a mere 6 out of 10 to 8/10.

    Yes some bugs still happen, animations are off sometimes, the quest and journal system (if i can call it that) are poorly implemented, but the game has somewhat solid game play, some parts you will love, some parts you will hate, but with the Extended Endings you won't feel like everything was for nothing, the ending isn't no    The EC changed this game from a mere 6 out of 10 to 8/10.

    Yes some bugs still happen, animations are off sometimes, the quest and journal system (if i can call it that) are poorly implemented, but the game has somewhat solid game play, some parts you will love, some parts you will hate, but with the Extended Endings you won't feel like everything was for nothing, the ending isn't no longer an insult to your effort, yes is light years away of perfection, but lets be reasonable, nothing is perfect.    … Expand
  82. Fredericko
    Jun 29, 2012
    8
    It was a good game. I know a lot of people are upset at the ending, but I just think most people really didn't understand it. However, would I have liked to have seen the end fleshed out a little more? Yes, absolutely. I enjoy the creative ending that allows the player to fill in the gaps. I would have liked something a little more concrete.

    Overall, way better then the 5.1 average    It was a good game. I know a lot of people are upset at the ending, but I just think most people really didn't understand it. However, would I have liked to have seen the end fleshed out a little more? Yes, absolutely. I enjoy the creative ending that allows the player to fill in the gaps. I would have liked something a little more concrete.

    Overall, way better then the 5.1 average rating on metacritic.    … Expand
  83. tennisbeast21
    Jul 11, 2012
    10
    This games is absolutely AMAZING! While the ending is a bit annoying, it's not enough to hold this game back from being a ten. I thoroughly enjoyed this game as much as I did the rest of the series.
  84. mgyukeri
    Jul 15, 2012
    9
    While the ending to the epic trilogy caused probably the largest controversy a game release has ever had, Mass Effect 3 is a perfect game. At least until the last 15 minutes. Let me just say I have not played the "Extended Cut DLC", not have I seen the new endings on YouTube. My opinion is only on the physical release of the game, not its content. Mass Effect 3 delivers an emotionalWhile the ending to the epic trilogy caused probably the largest controversy a game release has ever had, Mass Effect 3 is a perfect game. At least until the last 15 minutes. Let me just say I have not played the "Extended Cut DLC", not have I seen the new endings on YouTube. My opinion is only on the physical release of the game, not its content. Mass Effect 3 delivers an emotional suckerpunch. With cameos from the original games and an epic story, Mass Effect 3 seems like the ending to a TV show you really love. I found myself crying more than once because of events that occurred. Look, the ending might turn you off, but the entire experience is only slightly marred. Mass Effect 3 is worth a try.… Expand
  85. JimitheKid07
    Jul 16, 2012
    10
    Way better than that 5.1 UAWay better than that 5.1 UAWay better than that 5.1 UAWay better than that 5.1 UAWay better than that 5.1 UAWay better than that 5.1 UAWay better than that 5.1 UAWay better than that 5.1 UAWay better than that 5.1 UAWay better than that 5.1 UAWay better than that 5.1 UA
  86. tmbrwlf
    Jul 17, 2012
    8
    The game started off a little disconnected if you haven't played the ME2 DLC's but you quickly get into it. The build up of the story takes off quite quickly and its easy to get into the gameplay and the story. Originally there were a lot of gaps, but the release of the free DLC plugs these and finishes it off nicely. If the DLC ending and gaps had been in the original this would've hadThe game started off a little disconnected if you haven't played the ME2 DLC's but you quickly get into it. The build up of the story takes off quite quickly and its easy to get into the gameplay and the story. Originally there were a lot of gaps, but the release of the free DLC plugs these and finishes it off nicely. If the DLC ending and gaps had been in the original this would've had a 9 easily. There are a few things missing for it to make a 10.… Expand
  87. TheHumanBoss
    Jul 21, 2012
    10
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. I'm a huge fan of the series all the way. Sure the ending wasn't what we as users wanted, but Bioware tried to fixed it, even though you think they failed they still tried and are still trying. I am 50, 50 on the ending. But you got to think of the moral Bioware was trying to send us, but some users are just to ignorant to pay attention. They been trying to tell us the same lesson throughout the whole series, staring with Mass Effect 1. They want to tell us that you can accomplish anything if you just stand firm with your beliefs. In ME3, you can tell Shepard knows that he will lose, but he still gathers help from everywhere by putting their differences aside and focusing on the real problem. And in the end, the "kid" knew that Shepard's cycle has a chance and are coming very close to destroying the Reapers, so instead of letting Shepard win he tries to convince him for a final time that control is the best way to go, but Shepard has a stronger willpower and sticks with his "new solution". To me, this series will always be on top of any other game, not because of gameplay, but because of the story and the characters.… Expand
  88. LostRiot
    Jul 29, 2012
    8
    As seen in many reviews, I am a huge fan of the series, but this one I had some personal feelings about. I really love the story and all the character structure. I enjoy the new features and the fact that they brought back some of the customizing features from the first game. Now the fact that I really don't play RPG games often because they are a challenge if they attempt to be likeAs seen in many reviews, I am a huge fan of the series, but this one I had some personal feelings about. I really love the story and all the character structure. I enjoy the new features and the fact that they brought back some of the customizing features from the first game. Now the fact that I really don't play RPG games often because they are a challenge if they attempt to be like shooters, but Mass Effect was amazing in story and character customizing that I saw past the not so smooth play of the shooter mechanics. The second Mass Effect streamed lined them enough but did sacrifice RPG play. The third I felt focused to much on making this play like Gears of War and lost the fun challenge of an "RPG shooter" that made it different and original. Now for the story. Drop the Indoctrination Theory Issues, why did you do everything you did in he game not to see some resolution to each of the allied factions you earned through the entire game. I felt skimped. I don't blame Bioware so much as I blame EA. EA has to be the worst at putting a deadline on games and ruining the creativity that the developers need to make quality. EA and Activision will ruin the gaming industry if the keep up with there heavy marketing, poor deadline dates. I would wait for awesome rather than be dished out crap every time I turn around.… Expand
  89. Julli
    Jul 30, 2012
    9
    The user critic score is really skewed by child-like reviews. I didn't like the ending, so I'll give it one .. or zero. Those people are completely neglecting the fact that everything else than final five minutes of this game is simply super.
  90. befuzzled332
    Aug 20, 2012
    10
    i believe that this game deserves an 8.5 but gave it a 10 doing the little bit i can to raise the user score because as bad as the original game ending was it doesnt deserve a 5.2 score. until the end came i wouldve given this game a 10 but even the extended ending doesnt fulfill the sour taste of closure.but gameplay was solid ,story had me engaged (which is the main reason i play anyi believe that this game deserves an 8.5 but gave it a 10 doing the little bit i can to raise the user score because as bad as the original game ending was it doesnt deserve a 5.2 score. until the end came i wouldve given this game a 10 but even the extended ending doesnt fulfill the sour taste of closure.but gameplay was solid ,story had me engaged (which is the main reason i play any game) and now giving myself plenty of time to do a review the overall experience was worth an 8.5 with a sour ending most emotional game in recent time good example of this is the campaign to change the ending. the characters i truly felt something for. if someone died i felt it. the characters alone make this a worthy experience for anyone to enjoy… Expand
  91. BrunoAAMello
    Aug 30, 2012
    10
    This game is awsome This game is awsome This game is awsome This game is awsome This game is awsome This game is awsome This game is awsome This game is awsome This game is awsome This game is awsome This game is awsome This game is awsome This game is awsome This game is awsome This game is awsome This game is awsome This game is awsome This game is awsome This game is awsome This game isThis game is awsome This game is awsome This game is awsome This game is awsome This game is awsome This game is awsome This game is awsome This game is awsome This game is awsome This game is awsome This game is awsome This game is awsome This game is awsome This game is awsome This game is awsome This game is awsome This game is awsome This game is awsome This game is awsome This game is awsome This game is awsome This game is awsome This game is awsome This game is awsome This game is awsome This game is awsome This game is awsome This game is awsome This game is awsome This game is awsome This game is awsome This game is awsome This game is awsome This game is awsome This game is awsome This game is awsome This game is awsome This game is awsome This game is awsome This game is awsome This game is awsome This game is awsome This game is awsome This game is awsome This game is awsome This game is awsome This game is awsome This game is awsome This game is awsome This game is awsome This game is awsome This game is awsome This game is awsome This game is awsome This game is awsome This game is awsome This game is awsome This game is awsome… Expand
  92. StripestheZebra
    Sep 20, 2012
    10
    Really, Mass Effect 3 just rocks. If you enjoyed the previous 2 even a little, be prepared to be amazed. It kind of melds the best elements of Mass Effect with the vibrancy and life of Mass Effect 2, which was easily the game of the year back in 2010. And the sheer amount of times you find yourself yelling 'oh **** at the screen is something else
  93. Magnifico
    Jul 2, 2013
    9
    Sure the ending my not be the best we could've asked for.. sure the decisions we have made doesn't mean much when the end comes our way.. but aren't we missing the bigger picture of how a game can bring out all these emotions? I love the Mass Effect series all the way up to 3, a trilogy that will be talked about for many more years to come..
  94. Fenchurch1
    Aug 30, 2013
    9
    All the stops have been pulled out to make this the best Mass Effect yet with improved graphics and visuals making the cut scenes all the more enjoyable. Added depth in weapon customisation, improved audio and more information than you can ever need or want to read. A wealth of back-story and information on races and planets is also available for anyone who likes that kind of thing. TheAll the stops have been pulled out to make this the best Mass Effect yet with improved graphics and visuals making the cut scenes all the more enjoyable. Added depth in weapon customisation, improved audio and more information than you can ever need or want to read. A wealth of back-story and information on races and planets is also available for anyone who likes that kind of thing. The voice acting and scriptwriting is great, as has become standard for Mass Effect and the AI has been improved to make combat more intense and challenging than ever.… Expand
  95. Viperspider
    May 13, 2013
    8
    While the ending may leave you frustrated and looking for answers the majority of the game itself is brilliant. The gameplay is fun, skill based and action-packed. The single player mode is a lot of fun and is brilliant for the most part. The multiplayer is the best co-operative multiplayer I've ever played with some unique inventory based features. I would recommend this game to anyone,While the ending may leave you frustrated and looking for answers the majority of the game itself is brilliant. The gameplay is fun, skill based and action-packed. The single player mode is a lot of fun and is brilliant for the most part. The multiplayer is the best co-operative multiplayer I've ever played with some unique inventory based features. I would recommend this game to anyone, but don't be too surprised if the ending disappoints you.… Expand
  96. Phil133
    Nov 13, 2012
    9
    An Amazing game, great story which has you completely absorbed in the world of Shepard. This game also incorporates a large number of choices/ significant actions that the player made in games 1 and 2 which makes me impressed at the scope of number 3 -> The number of different ways events can play out based on prior actions/ character sex/ The paragon and Renegade morality system.
  97. Lieber
    Mar 9, 2013
    8
    Mass Effect 3 is both a testament to show how low EA has dragged Bioware. On the other hand, it IS a good game. Graphics look great, the RPG elements have been improved and the general gameplay is great. You can pretty much cut ME3 in three. Average/Amazing/Bad, for Opening/Majority of Game/Ending. Even with the Extended Cut, the ending is not satisfying for long time fans of the series,Mass Effect 3 is both a testament to show how low EA has dragged Bioware. On the other hand, it IS a good game. Graphics look great, the RPG elements have been improved and the general gameplay is great. You can pretty much cut ME3 in three. Average/Amazing/Bad, for Opening/Majority of Game/Ending. Even with the Extended Cut, the ending is not satisfying for long time fans of the series, and it's really a shame. Other issues include tons of auto-dialogue, a focus on Cerberus instead of the Reapers and the fetch quests they replaced normal side quests with. Your ME2 squadmates are completely sidelined, but that is Mass Effect 2's Suicide Mission's fault. So why did I rate it 8/10? Because it is a good game. Just not a great Mass Effect game.… Expand
  98. ubergeekzilla
    Nov 22, 2012
    10
    a fantastic game. with the new extended cut mass effect 3 ends the trilogy in a great way. its epic, exciting, dramatic, its equally as good as mass effect 2. the only negatives are the journal system sucks now...but the gamepaly, characters, graphics, everything is top notch. the best game of 2012 and one of the best games ever overall
  99. Jenkins
    May 3, 2014
    8
    An improvement from Mass Effect 2 in many ways. However I can't help shake the feeling that many of the plot-points should have been over and done with by this point; the result is a story which is inherently better than Mass Effect 2, yet feels bloated having little room to breathe. Regardless this is as epic as games can get and -- despite an ending which could have been handled a littleAn improvement from Mass Effect 2 in many ways. However I can't help shake the feeling that many of the plot-points should have been over and done with by this point; the result is a story which is inherently better than Mass Effect 2, yet feels bloated having little room to breathe. Regardless this is as epic as games can get and -- despite an ending which could have been handled a little better -- it really isn't too difficult to see why this trilogy defined a gaming generation.… Expand
  100. shprea
    Jun 25, 2013
    9
    Mass Effect 3 takes everything that made the first two Mass Effect games amazing and refines them to a tee. The gamplay is an improvement over the already improved Mass Effect 2 gameplay. The music is just as grand as the other games. The graphics are sharp with barely any technical issues. The story is compelling, full of victorious, sad, and memorable moments. Really, this game has itMass Effect 3 takes everything that made the first two Mass Effect games amazing and refines them to a tee. The gamplay is an improvement over the already improved Mass Effect 2 gameplay. The music is just as grand as the other games. The graphics are sharp with barely any technical issues. The story is compelling, full of victorious, sad, and memorable moments. Really, this game has it all.
    Many complain about the ending of the game. While I believe the ending was a little disappointing, it's not worth giving the game a 1/10 over.

    Really, the ending is the only minor flaw with this game, thus bringing it down from a perfect score. Still, this is a fantastic game worthy of everyone's attention.

    9/10    … Expand
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Awards & Rankings

1
#1 Best Xbox 360 Game of 2012
1
#1 Most Discussed Xbox 360 Game of 2012
14
#14 Most Shared Xbox 360 Game of 2012

Critic Reviews

All reviews »
Metascore
93

Universal acclaim - based on 74 Critic Reviews

Critic score distribution:
  1. Positive: 74 out of 74
  2. Mixed: 0 out of 74
  3. Negative: 0 out of 74
  1. Gamer.nl
    May 12, 2012
    95
    Mass Effect 3 is an emotional rollercoaster ride with lots of tension and moving moments. The threat of the Reapers make every decision a hard one and your relationship with other characters will be tested. This, in combination with tight gameplay, makes this the complete experience.
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  2. Polygon
    Apr 26, 2012
    100
    As a bombastic action-RPG with no previous context, Mass Effect 3 is a dark, engaging game with great combat, a well-written story, and all the epic space-opera you could want. But for those who have played through Mass Effect and Mass Effect 2, it's something much more.
    Read full review
  3. GameFocus
    Apr 18, 2012
    96
    The storytelling itself, the more refined combat, the voicework, the visuals, et all, stand as a fine example of some of the best this industry has to offer, and with my minor complaints aside, there's no doubt that Mass Effect 3 will be deservedly at the top of everyone's list come this year's award season.
    Read full review
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