Mass Effect 3

Xabong

Mar 20, 2012

8

If you are at all invested in the Mass Effect universe, this game will make you cry. The emotional payoff in this game is absolutely huge and Bioware's accomplishment in this area is absolutely unprecedented. Even if it is mostly smoke and mirrors, you really feel at the end that this was YOUR journey and it's hard to imagine it playing it out any other way. I think it speaks to theIf you are at all invested in the Mass Effect universe, this game will make you cry. The emotional payoff in this game is absolutely huge and Bioware's accomplishment in this area is absolutely unprecedented. Even if it is mostly smoke and mirrors, you really feel at the end that this was YOUR journey and it's hard to imagine it playing it out any other way. I think it speaks to the strength of the series that I do not WANT to play through the series a second time making different choices because I feel like it would spoil what I've decided is canon. That said, Bioware botched one major aspect of the game - the UI. This seems minor, but some of the problems make playing the game feel like a chore. They wanted to add more rpg elements, but they did so in such a sloppy way that it makes you really wish they hadn't. Menus are clunky and not user-friendly at all. The game does not even have proper quest tracking which will mean a lot of aimless walking around not knowing where to go or who to talk to. WHY, Bioware? The first two games had great quest tracking. The minor sidequests are also so awkwardly handled that they should have been left out because they really detract from the experience. Also, expect dozens and dozens of instant game over screens trying to outrun ridiculously fast reaper ships on the galaxy map. Yeah, Bioware, REALLY fun. These faults really stand out in what is otherwise a masterpiece and that makes them all the more frustrating because they are things that have worked in previous games. *sigh*… Expand

LadyDumrotten

Mar 21, 2012

8

Mass Effect 3 is an epic masterpiece of storytelling in a video game that is crippled by anti-consumer policies and some sloppy corner-cutting in terms of playability. As someone who has been completely invested in this universe, I couldn't be more satisfied with the game's storyline and character development. It is an incredible work of popular fiction, on par with great TV series likeMass Effect 3 is an epic masterpiece of storytelling in a video game that is crippled by anti-consumer policies and some sloppy corner-cutting in terms of playability. As someone who has been completely invested in this universe, I couldn't be more satisfied with the game's storyline and character development. It is an incredible work of popular fiction, on par with great TV series like LOST or Battlestar Galactica and there's absolutely nothing else like it in video games. It's unfortunate then, that anti-consumer policies bog down what is otherwise an exceptional experience. First of all, some of the game's best and most essential single-player content has been put into a 10 dollar day 1 dlc to curb used sales. On top of that, an online pass is required to access the game's micro-transaction based multiplayer... which you need to play in order to get the best endings in the single-player game. You see what I mean by anti-consumer? I feel like this is especially insiduous and unacceptable. The developers have claimed that you don't NEED to play the multiplayer to get the best ending, but I just don't see how it's possible. I wasted hours of my life playing all the horrible fetch quests and running from reapers on the galaxy map just so I could scan a stupid planet (seriously, whoever designed this side-content... ugh) and get a good rating, but by the end it still wasn't enough. To top it off, it is clear that very little time was spent on the game's UI. That said, I still love this game and think it is an absolute must play. Bioware is clearly still an extremely talented developer and the problems in this game are nowhere near as serious as they were in Dragon Age II. I just hope they learn from the negative feedback and stop nickel-and-diming us to death. I doubt it'll happen though.… Expand

rotku

Mar 18, 2012

8

Mass Effect 3 could easily have scored a 10, could have been an absolute epic, a poignant storyline in which it felt that you and all the characters within the game mattered and all played their part in shaping the future of the universe. I even thought that a trilogy of movies was possible, however this game is let down by two things, one minor and one major. The minor is the loadingMass Effect 3 could easily have scored a 10, could have been an absolute epic, a poignant storyline in which it felt that you and all the characters within the game mattered and all played their part in shaping the future of the universe. I even thought that a trilogy of movies was possible, however this game is let down by two things, one minor and one major. The minor is the loading times/screens, too many and too often but I could have lived with this as I was so engrossed in gathering my troops for the final battle for earth. The major problems is the ending. It's all over most boards and discussion groups across the net so I'm not going into it in details suffice to say that I felt robbed after playing through three games and hundreds of hours....this is the best that could be developed......what a cop out!!!… Expand

Ushae

Mar 18, 2012

8

This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. I've given this a 8 as opposed to a 10 deliberately. Those of you that are giving the game a negative rating are completely blinded by your distaste for the conclusion ( which I also hated!) and greed (yes EA I'm talking about you and your shameless day 1 DLC, bashtards..) and are ignoring the majority of the game. It was an utterly magnificent game that executed the things it attempted to do extremely well, so if you are reading this and undecided in getting the game, yes .. it is worth it, just wait for any possible DLC that may yet redeem the incredibly confusing and lazy ending. There are some things that I did feel were missing from the game that could have been implemented and enhanced the series to the ending it really deserves. A lot of our choices amounted to weak side quests that had 1 outcome only. The romances were somewhat weak, lacked depth that Bioware has lacked since their first game in Baldurs Gate 1 & 2, especially for the ME 2 character romances e.g. Jack/Miranda/Tali Bioware could have done a LOT more here. On that note, Bioware also seems to have done away with character companion questlines completely.. I know my review sounds critical, and to be honest the game DOES deserve critisism for what it didn't do right, that being said the things it does do are done masterfully. My verdict: wait it out, don't buy this just yet if your expecting perfection, but if your looking for great entertainment go for it!… Expand

drlowdon

Mar 25, 2020

8

Continuing from the events of the previous game Mass Effect 3 opens with the Reapers attacking Earth and, having narrowly escaped with his life, Commander Shepard yet again finds himself as humanity's last hope for survival.

Series veterans will be instantly familiar with the games concept in which a series of core and side missions can be accessed from the Normandy's galaxy map. ThisContinuing from the events of the previous game Mass Effect 3 opens with the Reapers attacking Earth and, having narrowly escaped with his life, Commander Shepard yet again finds himself as humanity's last hope for survival.

Series veterans will be instantly familiar with the games concept in which a series of core and side missions can be accessed from the Normandy's galaxy map. This time around however it is not just a case of recruiting allies to your cause. Depending on how each mission is handled vital resources, such as fleets of warships, can be gained to aid in the final battle against the Reapers. As has always been the case many of these missions allows for a great deal of freedom with a number of, sometimes very difficult, choices being afforded to the player. The series strong combat remains virtually unchanged from the series second entry and still plays like a simplified version of Gears of War. Responding to audience criticisms a number of features have been tweaked however. While the popular Mako may not make a return the weapon and armour customisation has returned and the dull planet scanning all but removed. For the first time in the Mass Effect series multiplayer has also been included. To be honest it offers only a minor diversion from the main campaign with only one mode (imagine Horde mode from Gears of War or Halo) and six small maps to play in co-op with up to three other players. Since the playing multiplayer aids in preparing for the Reaper assault in the main game however it is worth investing some time in.

And so to the much criticised ending to the game. In my personal opinion some of this criticism is justified as it certainly leaves several plot holes and very much jars with the philosophy of Mass Effect. A few fans have certainly gone overboard however as when you consider the huge influence you are able to wield throughout the game the disappointing final ten minutes in no way spoils the 20+ hours that come before or the epic series as a whole.… Expand

Nimzabaat

Mar 7, 2012

8

So we have people review bombing and giving the game 0, and I guess counter-bombing and giving it 10. The truth lies somewhere in between. (Though I gotta say the guy who said the game was terrific and he would definitly recommend it yet still gave it a 0... I don't know about that guy.) There have been slight improvements made over ME2. The combat is still a GoW rip-off and nowhere nearSo we have people review bombing and giving the game 0, and I guess counter-bombing and giving it 10. The truth lies somewhere in between. (Though I gotta say the guy who said the game was terrific and he would definitly recommend it yet still gave it a 0... I don't know about that guy.) There have been slight improvements made over ME2. The combat is still a GoW rip-off and nowhere near as unobtrusive and intuitive as it was in the original ME. The character models looks worse than ME2 and the lip-syncing isn't as good. There is some actual loot now for RPG players. Okay honestly I think the only reason ME3 feels like an improvement was because ME2 managed to set the bar so much lower. Anyways it is worth picking up if you feel the need to finish the trilogy. It would also be a great game if it came from a studio with less of a pedigree than Bioware.… Expand

Veay

Mar 29, 2012

8

This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. I found Mass Effect 3 a really enjoyable experience. Game expands on most characters in a nice way, it is constructed in a detailed manner, there are almost none continuity issues, combat is well-paced and pretty fun. Sound/music department is great, graphics is ok (nothing special).
There are many issues though, much more important than the dumb ending. Only one quest hub, few interesting characters (cmon, i had to run with Garrus and Liara all the time, Tali and Ashely late in game, rest was crap), useless quest tracker (!!). They could expand on evading Reapers, managing fuel and scanning planets as well. I didnt like the idea of galaxy readiness either. The game could use some more mature attitude also, it just holds your hand too much imo.
When it comes to that **** about ending - I dont really understand the whole fuss. It was dumb, I admit, especially the part where whole galaxy is left stranded orbiting around Earth with mass relays destroyed. I hate the star-kid idea as well - cmon, does every major rpg need this kind of closure, when you learn there is some new **** villain you never heard of before? But apart from this I liked Shepard - Illusive confrontation and the whole sacrafice thing that everyone anticipated anyways. It was pretty touching and allows for expanding history in the future - all of us want more ME anyway, right?… Expand

Jenny33

Mar 23, 2012

8

I loved this game, its really epic and well done except for a few things: I loved how the romances were done, they had been deepened, I romanced Kaidan as a fem shep and it was fantastic, what bothered me though was the fact that liara got more attention and story as always, its like bioware wants her to be the main romance and I am no lesbian so I wont romance her, even though she is notI loved this game, its really epic and well done except for a few things: I loved how the romances were done, they had been deepened, I romanced Kaidan as a fem shep and it was fantastic, what bothered me though was the fact that liara got more attention and story as always, its like bioware wants her to be the main romance and I am no lesbian so I wont romance her, even though she is not supposed to have a gender she does look very much as a woman. Also it didn't matter if you cheated on your li or not as bioware has said which was disappointing as well. And the ending... I am not going to go into it but it was very badly done and none of the choices made through the games mattered. Play the game except the last 10 minutes and you will love it.… Expand

Scottface

Mar 13, 2012

8

Okay, there are lots of malicious user-reviews on here, and although I do NOT condone them, I totally understand where they're coming from. After 3 games of making difficult choices, the end reveals that it was all for nothing. Nothing you did really makes any difference to the final outcome, and a lot is left unexplained. However, I've read user-reviews on here that have said they lovedOkay, there are lots of malicious user-reviews on here, and although I do NOT condone them, I totally understand where they're coming from. After 3 games of making difficult choices, the end reveals that it was all for nothing. Nothing you did really makes any difference to the final outcome, and a lot is left unexplained. However, I've read user-reviews on here that have said they loved the game up until the final few minutes and rated it a 1/10. This is the most peevish example of score-trolling I've seen since the last CoD. The truth is, aside from the story's shortcomings, this is still an excellent game. The shooting mechanics are better than ever and the gameplay excells because of it. The dialogue is excellent and the voice acting is, for the most part, nop-notch. It has its gameplay flaws, too, but they're few and far-between. Having the A button (or X button on PS3) responsible for dash, roll AND a context-sensetive action button is very problematic. It's always been a problem when games like Gears and Uncharted use the same button for dash and roll, but having it as an action-button as well is just too much. Often Shepherd does the wrong thing. Also there are some stupid design choices. Example: towards the end of the game, you have to fight your way out of a hangar. Once you've defeated all enemies, you're prompted to "escape the hangar." Usually in the game, clicking the right analogue stick will display a waypoint showing you where to go. But in this instance, clicking the stick simply reveals the prompt again, "escape the hangar." Now, the hangar is 2 floors, with doors and controll panels on both floors, so you're left to check every single door and console in the entire hangar to try and escape. There's also a sense of urgency at this point in the story, which is severely undermined while you run around the hangar trying to figure out where you're supposed to go. These are fairly minor frustrations and as I said before, they're quite rare. But they do occur, and they make the game feel sloppy when they do. It's also a problem when the rest of the game feels so polished and looks so good, then you run into a stupid design decision like this and it feels 10 times worse in contrast. For most games these would feel like minor flaws but for a game with the budget of Mass Effect, they just feel a little lazy.

In conclusion, this really is a good game bar a few minor flaws, and one major flaw. The major flaw is, of course, the end of the story. A huge majority of the series' fans feel letdown by this abysmal ending, myself included. Usually I wouldn't let a weak story tarnish my opinion of a game too much. But Mass Effect is, and always has been, a story-driven series. The stories in the first 2 games were captivating, here it feels pretty average. Then the ending comes and is far below average. If it weren't for this ending, I'd have given the game at least a 9. If it had a truly great, satisfying ending, I'd probably even have given it a 10, despite its few gameplay flaws. As it stands though, I've had to lower my opinion of this game to an 8. Disapointing.… Expand

crazydangerous

Mar 10, 2012

8

I thought I was going to hate this game but in all honesty It's a great game, feels pretty much like me2 but with improved combat although the enemies seem less varied, and story wise everything's decent but it seems like party members have a lot less to say. The endings are retarded monkey garbage but hey at least it's closure(still waiting on shenmue 3 sega). I hate EA and I have noI thought I was going to hate this game but in all honesty It's a great game, feels pretty much like me2 but with improved combat although the enemies seem less varied, and story wise everything's decent but it seems like party members have a lot less to say. The endings are retarded monkey garbage but hey at least it's closure(still waiting on shenmue 3 sega). I hate EA and I have no respect for Bioware as it is now but they made a Game that wasn't nightmarishly terrible which I honestly didn't think was possible after playing DA2 and the tortanic beta. Buy it if you feel like you've come to far to stop.… Expand

Sparpnsexyoak

Apr 18, 2012

8

I'll keep it short and sweet on this one promise. I loved Me1, Me2 and Me3. It is quite possibly my favourite set of games ever made, however this being said I will concede that Mass Effect 3 had some flaws. Yes it wasn't perfect and if I'm really honest I was not blown away by the ending. To continue in this honest fashion I was expecting the worse based on internet commentary and had II'll keep it short and sweet on this one promise. I loved Me1, Me2 and Me3. It is quite possibly my favourite set of games ever made, however this being said I will concede that Mass Effect 3 had some flaws. Yes it wasn't perfect and if I'm really honest I was not blown away by the ending. To continue in this honest fashion I was expecting the worse based on internet commentary and had I ignored it I probably would have been a lot happier, but on with the review! Mass Effect 3 has a great story and incredible lore to back it up. The action in number 3 is better than either 1 or 2 and you really get the sense that the galaxy is falling apart around you. The visuals are stunning and go a long way to immersing you in the game, yes sometimes things pop in and out but when your looking up at a huge freaking planet on fire, as you gun down loads of husks standing between you and ultimate victory everything seems perfect! I couldn't live with myself if I gave it a perfect score as that would be silly, I expect flawless for that. This said users who score it a zero seriously needs to grow up a bit and be fair to the game as a whole, no game deserves that and least of all Mass Effect.… Expand

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

CalebPeter

Nov 2, 2012

8

I really enjoyed this game when i played it. The Story is fantasitc, as with every other Mass Effect, and the gameplay has improved, but not by much. There has been a lot of hype over the ending of the game. The ending really was terrible. When I finished the game, I was horrified. But Bioware not only fixed it up, they fixed it for free, and came out with many other DLC's, for FREE. OtherI really enjoyed this game when i played it. The Story is fantasitc, as with every other Mass Effect, and the gameplay has improved, but not by much. There has been a lot of hype over the ending of the game. The ending really was terrible. When I finished the game, I was horrified. But Bioware not only fixed it up, they fixed it for free, and came out with many other DLC's, for FREE. Other than that, the gameplay is good, the story is excellent, but not as good as Mass Effect 2, which is still my favorite game of all time. Also, Mass Effect manages what most games can't. The game has you really caring about the characters of the game. Especially the second and third game. Overall I give this game a 8, because it is a really well made game, and I can't wait for the movie, and Mass Effect 4.… Expand

H4rb1nger

Jun 27, 2012

8

This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. I remember waiting for ME3 last year, getting excited thanks to all the E3 footage, thinking about how good this game will be.Well, was I wrong?Mostly, no.The game is great and above average.But is it better than the previous games?

No.

Not even close.The main thing that made ME1 & 2 so great was the storyline, the characters, the lore, the conversations.

The RPG and combat elements together in ME1 weren't so great and the game ended being quite buggy.But it had something that no other game at the time had.With ME2, this was taken to the next level with even more conversation options and characters.ME2 was a rather personal tale, and while it was incredible, it felt more like a sub story.The amount of depth in the game's characters is something that you don't normally see.While the combat improved in ME2, the RPG elements were dumbed down to the point where it's just barely an RPG, but still being acceptable.

Now, based on the above, what you would expect from ME3 is more refined, better RPG elements and more focus on the main storyline with the convo options staying mainly the same.

But no.What we got with ME3 is insane amount of auto dialogue, less conversation options, and an overall more simple plot.Oh, and we also got totally GOW like combat and multiplayer.WHY?

Now if you actually read this far, you might be wondering what I mean by "more simple plot".While the previous games had many twists and turns to keep the story rolling, the only proper twist in ME3 was SPOILERS the citadel being the catalyst.Now, I do agree with others that the Tuchanka & Rannoch missions were incredible and very well written, the storyline itself is about nothing but gaining alliances while a super plot device being built.

The other thing I disliked about the story is some of the villians.The illusive man was one of the most interesting characters through ME2, and I could've imagined him being both the villian and the secret ally in ME3.But, instead, he is forced to be a villian, and not just that, but they also made him completely retarded in ME3.Some might argue that he is indoctrinated however, i'm quite sure he isn't right up untill he "injects himself" (seen aboard the Cerb. hq, on the very last video log.)Kai Leng, is just lame.He was a great villian in the books, but here he's just a **** who only survives as long as he does because of plot shields and his precious gunship.

The combat being upgraded to GOW level was just completely unnessacary.But the worst thing still is what they did to the convo options.Shepard doesn't really feel like your shepard anymore.Or not mostly anyways.

The other, very big issue with ME3 is the sidequests.The fetch quests are just boring and rather pointless, while the N7 missions are just multiplayer maps with some lore attached to them.They bored me to death, honestly.

Now that my main issues are out of the way, let's discuss the good things about ME3.
-Although the combat is very GOW like, it is quite fun, and the more improved RPG elements are just great.
-Many of the missions are very well put together, infact, I have to say I enjoyed most of them, besides the retarded fetch quests and N7 missions of course.
-While the convo options are dumbed down, the dialogue itself, is very well written and a real treat to long time fans.The only dialogue I was honestly dissapointed with is the speeches, which are not half as epic as they were in ME2.
-The multiplayer, while completely unnessacary, is quite enjoyable.For some time, atleast.The unlock system, although critisized by many, is one of the highlights of the MP in my opinion.
-The (NEW) ending.The ending, at first, before EC, was horrible.No closure, no explanation, just crap.With EC on the other hand, the ending is very well explained and also gives more than enough closure as well as a much better reflection of your choices.
-The graphics and the scenery is nice.Not the best, and certainly won't impress and PC graphics geeks, it is good.

Overall, dispite the unforgivable thing they did to the storytelling and converstations, the game still ends up being great.I personally enjoyed it a lot, even like this, although I was left somewhat dissapointed.

8.4/10… Expand

TheTwinTowers

Mar 10, 2012

8

When I first started Mass Effect 2, I was absolutely blown away. I was until the end of the game, and couldn't wait for Mass Effect 3. However, I don't feel as captivated as before. It seems while most of what made Mass Effect 2 so amazing was kept - the most important aspect of what made Mass Effect stand out, was dumbed down. The dialogue choices are almost non existent, and when thereWhen I first started Mass Effect 2, I was absolutely blown away. I was until the end of the game, and couldn't wait for Mass Effect 3. However, I don't feel as captivated as before. It seems while most of what made Mass Effect 2 so amazing was kept - the most important aspect of what made Mass Effect stand out, was dumbed down. The dialogue choices are almost non existent, and when there are choices for you to make - it's more a "do it", or "do not" do it that really stands out. There isn't a whole lot of branching out within discussions to learn more about a situation. There are however, cinematic s galore. There are multiple times where your watching one and a question is asked - and you look down to see the conversation wheel. But it doesn't appear. As far as RP elements, it's pretty much lost all of them. This feels more like a super sci fi version of Gears of War with weapon customization. It's not a bad game by any means. But it lost a lot of what made Mass Effect special, and so captivating.… Expand

isturbo1984

Mar 21, 2012

8

I am very disappointed with the gripers of this game. while it does a developing mechanical issues... and the genre isn't as defined as some of the raging fans might want it to be... the game as a whole is outstanding.

Let's talk about that ending, spoiler free: It wasn't the cliched "happily every after" ending. Get over it. Nor was it the macabre "everybody dies" ending that some peopleI am very disappointed with the gripers of this game. while it does a developing mechanical issues... and the genre isn't as defined as some of the raging fans might want it to be... the game as a whole is outstanding.

Let's talk about that ending, spoiler free: It wasn't the cliched "happily every after" ending. Get over it. Nor was it the macabre "everybody dies" ending that some people were expecting. It was a nested medium of the two, while having conflict resolution.

It might help if some of the casual gamers who bought this game just because of the advertising and high school chatter would actually go back and play the first two. Find some middle-ground. This game shouldn't be in the red, lol. Be ashamed.… Expand

BlakCoffeeBlues

Mar 6, 2012

8

The only reason there isn't more 10 out of 10 reviews right now is because people who are actually enjoying it are playing it right now. Trolls come in herds and think its fun to review negatively. If any game had only remote instances taken from ME1 & 2 it would never have at minimum a score of a 0 however this game far surpasses that in every aspect so I don't get it. MORE MASS EFFECTThe only reason there isn't more 10 out of 10 reviews right now is because people who are actually enjoying it are playing it right now. Trolls come in herds and think its fun to review negatively. If any game had only remote instances taken from ME1 & 2 it would never have at minimum a score of a 0 however this game far surpasses that in every aspect so I don't get it. MORE MASS EFFECT DOES NOT AND WILL NEVER constitute a score of 0 in my eyes. There was definitely a ton of work that went into this game and should be reviewed on the content it presents. Great game, if you are swayed by the trolls you would only be doing yourself a disservice.… Expand

TheSoloSlayer

Mar 6, 2012

8

I dislike that they are trying to market this game off to casual gamers. As a trilogy I would rather have had them do what they did with this game to the previous two. Aside from that, the game isn't all bad. Although the game still feels much simpler than the first, the shooter element has gotten a vast improvement. The multiplayer is great, addictive and avoidable if you do not haveI dislike that they are trying to market this game off to casual gamers. As a trilogy I would rather have had them do what they did with this game to the previous two. Aside from that, the game isn't all bad. Although the game still feels much simpler than the first, the shooter element has gotten a vast improvement. The multiplayer is great, addictive and avoidable if you do not have means to play it online. All in all the game is great for mass effect fans. If you have yet to play the first and second ME I suggest you do before playing this, it will greatly improve what would otherwise be a very confusing story.… Expand

Ashleydenee

Mar 9, 2012

8

The Mass Effect series had been my favorite video games, bar none. As someone playing it from the beginning, I was an avid supporter and introduced the game to numerous friends and family but the ending has ruined the game for me. Taking my time, I picked every perfect choice and at the end I was left with 3 endings all of which made the character I had developed worthless. Was I able toThe Mass Effect series had been my favorite video games, bar none. As someone playing it from the beginning, I was an avid supporter and introduced the game to numerous friends and family but the ending has ruined the game for me. Taking my time, I picked every perfect choice and at the end I was left with 3 endings all of which made the character I had developed worthless. Was I able to save the galaxy? Yes. However, it was at the cost of a character and relationships which I had become deeply entwined in for the previous 4 years. Though the content pre-ending was good, the terrible ending which Bioware forced on the players makes me wish I had never played the game to begin with. Perhaps it's silly to care so much but I played an enriched game which allowed the players to really learn to love characters who, at the end of my game, were dead, stranded, or abandoned. Thanks for nothing Bioware...… Expand

Allthegoodones

Apr 1, 2012

8

So I had been following all the hype around this game prior to its release and had bought into it all because, and I'm certain even the disappointed will agree, this was by far the most engaging video game ever made. Even ME 3 was an amazing experience, the whole quarian vs geth storyline and the conclusion of it was easily the most powerful sub plot in a game i've ever experienced. TheSo I had been following all the hype around this game prior to its release and had bought into it all because, and I'm certain even the disappointed will agree, this was by far the most engaging video game ever made. Even ME 3 was an amazing experience, the whole quarian vs geth storyline and the conclusion of it was easily the most powerful sub plot in a game i've ever experienced. The ending though... what a grumble inducing affair it was! It was clearly rushed... even if this had been a single game that ending would not have sufficed. Bur for a trilogy, its down right criminal to end with a five minute cut scene. There had to have been a fully playable epilogue chapter. Shepard's death in itself wasn't the disappointment it was more the callousness with which this legend we had been building for years was abandoned is what broke all the hearts. Shepard dying is a fitting option for sure, adding invaluably to the replayability of the whole series. But bioware seriously needed to take a leaf from the RDR book wherein the protag dies in the penultimate chapter allowing for closure for the ones left behind. Ofcourse for those players who managed to make the decision throughout the series to keep Shepard alive in the end would be awarded with shepard as the Protag of the final/epilogue chapter as well. Alas, Bioware has dropped the ball on that opportunity and even if they come out with a DLC fixing this problem it will not hold the same value or meaning.
Having said that, the game itself is remarkable and kudos to Bioware for undertaking this mystifying journey and bringing us along for the ride. In all honesty the plotline of the ME series has never been as strong as the subplots and relationships and feeling of camaraderie that the game was able to bring to players and as far as those attributes are concerned, let me just say that even though i sided with the geth initially, the very next day, after a sleepless night haunted by visions of Tali's heartbreaking death, i simply had to go back and kill the geth of instead. And its not just Tali... Garruss, and Liara... Mordin and Wrex... Ashley and Miranda and joker and Kelly and even EDI... these were more than just team mates, they were real friends who my shepard cared about and who cared about him. No one has ever been able to do that before, it is a feeling exclusive to the ME series and a feeling that i will crave to feel again until someone take the ME formula and improves on it to deliver a the masterpiece this game was until they botched up the climax. All in all, it was one hell of an experience and it would have been all that much better had Bioware given the time and effort to the ending that this game deserved. Even so i'm grateful for the effort they did put in. Now they need to work on a new ME series, one set in the aftermath of this one. They need to do it soon and they need to do it right.… Expand

BizzleTheDon

Mar 12, 2012

8

Honestly, Bioware cut corners on this game, and what could have been a hit with both critics (who are clearly paid for by major developers) AND fans, turned into a minor black eye on what is otherwise an excellent trilogy. This IS a good game, but it is flawed when it didn't have to be. A few more months and Bioware could've spent the time developing three alternate endings, as opposedHonestly, Bioware cut corners on this game, and what could have been a hit with both critics (who are clearly paid for by major developers) AND fans, turned into a minor black eye on what is otherwise an excellent trilogy. This IS a good game, but it is flawed when it didn't have to be. A few more months and Bioware could've spent the time developing three alternate endings, as opposed to copy and pasted versions of the same ending that completely eradicated any feeling of your decisions up to that point feeling like they mattered worth nothing. In addition to that, they also could have formulated answers for the clear plot holes in the game. (SPOILER ALERT!!: Who is the being on the Citadel who created the Reapers? What made them come to that decision? Why would the Normandy be in FTL Travel when clearly, they were orbiting Earth assisting the crew?) They also could have worked out to numerous kinks in the cover system, such as popping out of cover when you change weapons, or not returning to cover when popping out to fire.) Other issues include glitches that freeze your game or cause characters to disappear during talking scenes. I believe there was definitely a money grab mentality here. I point to a multiplayer that has very little depth in light of other XBL Shooters, but is a necessity to play if you want your galactic fleet to be at full strength. By forcing that on players, it assures that those who bought the game used will have to buy a pass to play the online Multi. Also, the entire "From Ashes" DLC could have been integrated into the game itself. In the end, there are many flaws with this game. However, none of them stop the game from being fantastic up until the ending. And if it helps: If you haven't played this game to the end? Take my advice: ONLY CHOOSE ONE ENDING AND DO NOT PLAY THE OTHERS. It will ruin it the experience.… Expand

thezeppo1138

Apr 19, 2012

8

Despite a few flaws, such as the codex not updating and and some graphical glitches, Mass Effect 3 is an awesome game. Very intense and highly emotional. I have even been playing the multiplayer a lot more than I thought. As for the ending, the the only thing that really bothered me about it was some continuity issues and such that made it feel lazily put together. That is a littleDespite a few flaws, such as the codex not updating and and some graphical glitches, Mass Effect 3 is an awesome game. Very intense and highly emotional. I have even been playing the multiplayer a lot more than I thought. As for the ending, the the only thing that really bothered me about it was some continuity issues and such that made it feel lazily put together. That is a little disappointing because the rest of the games writing is so on point and some of the best you will see in the genre. They are working on fixing it though. But overall a great experience and amazing conclusion to the trilogy. Highly recommended.… Expand

nguthomas

Mar 29, 2012

8

Don't get me wrong. The game is as good as its predecessor...except that the endings are awful and most of them are the same. Will Indoctrination DLC get a better ending or not? We're going to find out.

sias

Mar 25, 2012

8

A decent yet highly flawed finale to a great trilogy, that feels really quite dated. GOOD: Fantastic presentation and production values gives the game a fantastically epic feel at times (Palaven level in particular); Fun and varied combat that improves upon both ME1 and 2 by presenting the player with a greater diversity of enemies that require radically different techniques to beat;A decent yet highly flawed finale to a great trilogy, that feels really quite dated. GOOD: Fantastic presentation and production values gives the game a fantastically epic feel at times (Palaven level in particular); Fun and varied combat that improves upon both ME1 and 2 by presenting the player with a greater diversity of enemies that require radically different techniques to beat; Generally stunning graphics and crisp, clean textures; Most character interactions are superb with a mostly decent script; Around 90% of the story is brilliantly told and exciting to participate in; Voice acting is top-notch and fleshes out the characters well; Much improved powers progression over ME2 with a slight decrease in overall linearity; Weapon mods are a welcome return as are the armour upgrades from ME2; Seeing the conclusions of many of your choices in previous games play out is generally pretty well done; Multiplayer is very good and offers a wealth of customisation and character progression; Space Hamster, Auto-Fish feeder and Blasto! BAD: Journal is terribly designed and does not update when new items for a quest are found, so quest progression can be confusing; When opening quest log it does not default to top of screen so you have to scroll through all the quests you've completed whenever you open it which is irritating and totally unnecessary; Graphical pop-in during many different parts of the game creates an unfinished look in an other wise highly polished game; Characters vanish during cutscenes and necks twist in weird laughably bad directions to compensate for bad character placement during some cutscenes; Human faces look awful at times compared to other Alien races and detract somewhat from the emotion of many cutscenes; During cutscenes graphical bugs occur wherein pistols are holstered on back or are invisible where Bioware always expected players to apparently be using an assault rifle; Shepard has an awful script which is positively cringe worthy in most instances and again detracts from the quality of cutscenes; Story has many exhaustingly contrived instances, such as the sudden emergence of a weapon that can destroy all the Reapers highlighting some terrible writing in parts; The Ending is horridly put together and highlights Bioware's inability to conclude compelling stories (Space Jesus? Why? Deus Ex Machina anyone?); Many quest bugs which require reloading from previous saves to proceed; The one-button-for-every-action is at it's worse now that Bioware have introduced rolling to the combat - having the same button for running, going into cover, interacting with an item, rolling and reviving team mates reeks of bad game design and causes far too many frustrating moments (See Vanquish for how to do this correctly); In multiplayer there are many gameplay bugs such as falling through floor, enemies becoming invisible/invincible, not being able to forward roll and use heavy attack for minutes at a time and being stuck on the spot forcing you to quit out of the game; The galaxy map is now at its most redundant with sections cut off until you reach "that part of the game" meaning actual exploration in Mass Effect 3 is incredibly linear; Scanning for War assets is dull and requires almost no input from the player; Side-quests are incredibly shallow and mostly require you to scan a planet to find some lost religious texts for a species and then find the numbered NPC on a map of the citadel to complete it (bearing in mind the journal never updates, so you only know if a mission is complete if a new numbered NPC appears on the map); Other side-quest follow a sloppy pattern of coincidently bumping into old team mates from ME2 under increasingly dull and contrived circumstances; Zero customisation of your teammate armour; Weapon mods are uninteresting and are mostly just scopes and bigger clips; Character progression is still immensely shallow, especially for your teammates; All aspects of character progression are combat based and there are no class specific skills to give you an advantage in any moments out of combat so your class has zero identity outside a combat situation; No mini-games for hacking doors now, just stand and watch Shepard wave his omni-tool around for a good 20 seconds (fun?...no); Reaper awareness meter on galaxy map is badly implemented and just becomes a nuisance instead of creating a feeling of actual panic; War Assest acquisition is wholly artifical and is quite simply a bar to raise so you get more of a choice of the same badly written and horribly presented ending. Overall Mass Effect 3 is a fun game to play, but it's shallow, buggy, has some terrible scripting blunders and horrid design choices that really tarnish what could have been a superb game and a definite contender for my GOTY.… Expand

Jbrizzy

Mar 17, 2012

8

First off the Game is Amazing, when you play through the game you will love almost every aspect of it. BUT then you get to the last ten minutes, and everything is thrown into the trash. It really pains me to admit it because i love this trilogy so much, but Bioware couldid a hell of a lot better with the ending. Its like they worked so hard on the game that when they got to the ending theyFirst off the Game is Amazing, when you play through the game you will love almost every aspect of it. BUT then you get to the last ten minutes, and everything is thrown into the trash. It really pains me to admit it because i love this trilogy so much, but Bioware couldid a hell of a lot better with the ending. Its like they worked so hard on the game that when they got to the ending they just halfassed it, Otherwise if it werent for the ending this game woulda been the perfect 10/10 it shoulda been but fanboy or not i cant rate this game any higher. Like i said the game is Brilliant but once you beat it, you wont want to pick it up and play it again(atleast thats how I felt) And the collectors Edition just feels like a lie that i slightly regret purchasing, buts thats just me, otherwise all gripes aside, this game is EXCELLENT. So idl where the future of the franchise is going, but if they can have a HALO4, im pretty sure there will be a ME4 in the future.… Expand

Fatspud

Mar 22, 2012

8

All im going to talk about is the really pointless and aggravating multiplayer, because everything else possible has been said. why force me to play the multiplayer to get the best ending? in the end it seemed to make no difference, but still, the reason i play single player games is because i dislike other people, because they tend to be idiots. the multiplayer is also repetitive to suchAll im going to talk about is the really pointless and aggravating multiplayer, because everything else possible has been said. why force me to play the multiplayer to get the best ending? in the end it seemed to make no difference, but still, the reason i play single player games is because i dislike other people, because they tend to be idiots. the multiplayer is also repetitive to such a painful extent it hurts- playing it was like a chore. But hey, turns out it makes no difference, so i'll never have to play it again. yay.… Expand

Sasori261

Mar 12, 2012

8

This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. The game was absolutely great until the ending. It was a terrible ending to end an amazing series, but that doesn't mean the game deserves a bad rating. Although I agree about the day 1 DLC, they don't force you to buy it! I also disliked how none of my decisions made any difference in the end, sure the geth are now extinct, and if I had chosen to, so would the rachni, but it never really mattered for the ending. They only supplied more resources for building the Crucible. So anyone that complains that the game is crap, try and make a game that's better than it, and you'll probably be shot down, just like your trying to do to Bioware and Mass Effect 3. So the game is pretty good until the ending, so don't let all the negative reviews stop you from buying the game.… Expand

bubblegumNtaffy

Mar 9, 2012

8

It was a fully engaging game. I actually felt stressed out when Shepard would be stressed out. The only thing stopping me from giving this game a better rating was the untied strings at the end. The writing at the end also seemed a bit rushed. More thought and time could have provided a more concise and well thought ending. Instead you get an unsatisfying ending with barely anyIt was a fully engaging game. I actually felt stressed out when Shepard would be stressed out. The only thing stopping me from giving this game a better rating was the untied strings at the end. The writing at the end also seemed a bit rushed. More thought and time could have provided a more concise and well thought ending. Instead you get an unsatisfying ending with barely any explanation. Even the choices at the end are poorly thought out. The game had quite enjoyable combat, and I hated ME2's combat. This game was very similar to ME2 in that you have to find help throughout the whole game. However, the story feels like it progresses forward in this game, as opposed to ME2. Also i thought this "galaxy readiness" thing was going to be awesome. Thinking you'd be able to maneuver troops around and actually fight the reapers using strategy and having to sacrifice certain areas while keeping others alive.... but no. You have to download DLC and i refuse to so I don't even know what it does. This game had the potential to rock everything I loved about videogames but you could still feel a rushed element present. I really did like this game and its a good finish, kind of akin to the ending to Battlestar Galactica or Lost. It's a good buy and an indication that Bioware hasn't (entirely) sold out to EA...yet.… Expand

TheVindelator

Mar 14, 2012

8

Overall, I'm pretty happy with Mass Effect 3. The story isn't as deep as the other installments but there's still some really great dramatic moments. Multiplayer is also pretty fun but a secondary part of the game.

BlazinBlaise

Mar 15, 2012

8

I have been a fan of the series from the start, and running through the previous two games at least three times in for all of the achievements really allowed me to develope a relationship with many of the characters throughout the series. It is for this reason that I am fully able to appreciate the third game in the series. Many reviewers are correct when they say that this game is tooI have been a fan of the series from the start, and running through the previous two games at least three times in for all of the achievements really allowed me to develope a relationship with many of the characters throughout the series. It is for this reason that I am fully able to appreciate the third game in the series. Many reviewers are correct when they say that this game is too busy tying up loose ends instead of introducing its own. This is due to the fact that this is meant to be the last game in the series, and does not seem to be a game that you can play without experiencing the other two. there's just too much backstory and lore to do that. I admire the third-person shooting in the game, as well as the introduction to customizable weapons. There are a few hiccups while trying to get on and move from cover to cover, but the small mistakes are easily overlooked due to the impressive story-telling, amazing environments, and even the ever-present background music. I found myself smiling at jokes among the characters, and feeling somewhat depressed when things didn't turn out the way that I wanted them too. In order to fully experience the game, the first two games are essential, but the final chapter to the trilogy is definitely worth the time and money.… Expand

N64Go

Mar 6, 2012

8

A good game for a shooter. Not so much for the RPG part though. Excellent more in the vein of action adventure type of game with some dialogue choices (which is not a bad thing!)

The good: -Gameplay wise, shooting is responsive and using powers is fun. Enemies can push you to use tactics. Guns shoot differently too and you can "feel" the difference. -Graphically it is better in terms ofA good game for a shooter. Not so much for the RPG part though. Excellent more in the vein of action adventure type of game with some dialogue choices (which is not a bad thing!)

The good: -Gameplay wise, shooting is responsive and using powers is fun. Enemies can push you to use tactics. Guns shoot differently too and you can "feel" the difference.
-Graphically it is better in terms of lighting and realistic hair.
-Dialogue/Voice acting: Dialogue is not perfect and can range of incredibly cliche to excellent but Voice acting is so good even the cliche lines sound good.
-Cut Scenes: Very cinematic. Felt like I was watching a movie.
-Music is very good.

The Bad:
-The 'A' button for everything can be problematic in combat (like wanting to cover but rolling instead).
-Graphically animation seem worse than Mass Effect 2 particularly when people talk. It was quite strange that this aspect of the game actually degraded from its processor.
-Story: Plot is atypical and tries to force drama too many times that for some it maybe annoying. An unsatisfying endings that may cause some player to feel like the first two games were for naught and a lack of a rewarding epilogue might be the defining factor of replay value.
-Choices: Due to auto dialogue (even for Story mode) take up around 50 percent of the time and thus choices in dialogues seem lacking. Also, some may feel that their "Shepard" got hijacked because of the auto dialogues.

Overall, this is a good game despite its short comings. Depends on the players though if it is "A must play". A long time fan may love it or hate it. However, new players may find the game okay due to not experiencing the previous games to appreciate it.… Expand

Duexelim

Mar 8, 2012

8

This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. I was excited about Mass Effect 3 since the day I heard about it, and wanted to see how the series would end. Once I got the game, I was happy and managed to get a large amount of enjoyment from it. (For the most part) The game-play was solid and fun, there a lot of enjoyable and memorable moments in the story that brought a smile to my face, The music is great as always, most of the environments were eye-catching, and I had alot of fun with multiplayer as well.; All of these made the game wonderful and memorable experience for me. Not to say the game doesn't have problems it does (most have been mentioned such as the animation problems, bad dialogue at times, only two options dialogue options for most of the game etc.) most of them were minor and excusable for me as overall I was having a wonderful time with the game. The game has problems, most i was willing to forgive and forget because I was enjoying the overall experience and was very much immersed without being bothered by these flaws. However, if there was one problem that I had with the game that I was unable to forgive it's the game's conclusion that nearly ruined that game for me. Without trying to spoil anything, I found the ending of Mass Effect 3 to be incredibly disappointing and inexcusable. Why? Well, from this reviewer's viewpoint (along with many others I believe) It doesn't give the game (or the gamer) any sort of closure and makes all the progress and choices made in not only this game but as well as the two prequels, mean nothing. I found myself at a loss of words on the way game ended (There are 3 endings, each with minor variations but I found it mattered very little either way because each of the endings end the same way.)

So yeah, I liked Mass Effect 3 and I found it to be a good game with some wonderful and memorable moments but along with some hiccups, flaws, and a very disappointing conclusion(s). The thing is that I expected to be a great game and wanted to love it! But the game's ending(s) prevented me from saying so. It's a good game had me immersed and engaged for a majority of the game but it's not perfect and has it's flaws. I don't think it is deserving of 0/10 but that's just my two-cents.… Expand

lioblanco

Jan 25, 2018

8

No es el mejor juego de la saga, lo veo como un Mass effect 2/b pero aun así cerraron la trilogía como yo lo hubiera terminado.. no estoy de acuerdo con que los 3 finales sean iguales no tiene sentido... pero no puedo dejar escapar lo épico que fue jugarlo. Vale la pena jugarlo y Re jugarlo!!!! Sigo Esperando Mas DLC's.

Tudor

Mar 9, 2012

8

Before playing Mass Effect 3 , i went through the first two installments once more with a completley new character in order to have the "Mass Effect" expirience fresh in my mind and for better or worse i could judge ME 3 better comparing it to the previous games so here are my 2 cents :
This game confuses the hell out of me in terms of quality , there where plenty of moments where my jawBefore playing Mass Effect 3 , i went through the first two installments once more with a completley new character in order to have the "Mass Effect" expirience fresh in my mind and for better or worse i could judge ME 3 better comparing it to the previous games so here are my 2 cents :
This game confuses the hell out of me in terms of quality , there where plenty of moments where my jaw dropped as the story progressed , and there others that felt out of place , forced upon me (but the bad ones weren't that many in my opinion).While the quality of the story is good , it feels like i've taken more of a backseat in this 3rd game because it is more streamlined (a thing that i do not understand , this was the chance for BW to go all out on decision making since its the last game , and didn't have to worry about the hellish writing that would have entailed into making a 4th installment) .I could go on for some time about the pro's and cons but to make it short : The story is fantastic , the score that accompanies it is marvellous , there are a few plotholes that will annoy fans of the series , don't think will bother those who just want to play this last one.
The gameplay mechanics are decent , but ME was never supposed to be about the shooting part , they've put in some more rpg elements (not that much really) but its still better then ME2 in that area.
The graphics are good , definetly not ugly taking into consideration its based on a 7 year old engine.
The score as i said previously , is fantastic the voice acting is what you would expect from the previous games ( Great) but seems less of it . To be fair , i knew that Bioware had a tough job in front of them in wrapping up this trilogy , they set the bar high with the quality of the previous games and an ever harder job pleasing the fans (myself included) regarding the end of the trilogy . While the game indeed wraps up this fantastic series , and answers many questions it also raised new ones , leaving me longing for more , as such i believe this game should have a place in your collection because it definetly deserves it , but at the same time it does leave you "hanging" .… Expand

Tirader

Mar 9, 2012

8

This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. Having just beat the game I feel like it's still a great game, but I also feel like Bioware has lost their ability to tell a truly amazing story. The whole Cerberus angle doesn't really make a lot sense throughout the game; it seems Cerberus is there just so you have something besides Reaper forces to kill. Several of the interactions you can have with former team mates from ME2 feel fake or out of place, and lastly the ending is just a huge let down. Killing the protagonist is a great way to end a story if it fits, but in this case, it just doesn't work.… Expand

JESK1985

Mar 11, 2012

8

It seems somewhat disingenuous to award a 0, or indeed anything below a 6, just because the last 1% of the game wasn't as good as the preceding 99%. Bioware really isn't going to care that you've taken swipes at them on Metacritic, all you've done is make yourself look petty. If you'd voiced your concerns and given a realistic score (a 6 or maybe a 7), I think they'd have more sympathy,It seems somewhat disingenuous to award a 0, or indeed anything below a 6, just because the last 1% of the game wasn't as good as the preceding 99%. Bioware really isn't going to care that you've taken swipes at them on Metacritic, all you've done is make yourself look petty. If you'd voiced your concerns and given a realistic score (a 6 or maybe a 7), I think they'd have more sympathy, but giving 0 just makes you look spiteful.

Anyway.

I enjoyed the game immensely. Good characterisation, rich storytelling, a highly enjoyable experience. In some ways perhaps not matching up to the legacy of its predecessors, in others completely blowing them away.

I agree the possible endings could be more varied, but in essence it's not all that different from the endings of the previous games. In any case it's certainly not work knocking off more than 1 or two (or if you're feeling really harsh 3) points from the total score.

A lack of varied endings, plus a few controller mishaps and less "choice" than its predecessors aside, a perfect game. I'll give it an 8/10, though it's probably closer to 8.5… Expand

Ryokuji

Mar 11, 2012

8

Lets give a fair review here. Mass Effect 3 is a fantastically put together game overall. That being said it does have some shortcomings, which is why I give it an 8/10. The multiplayer is sub par and gives little in replay with lvl 20 being the cap and nothing really being gained from "Promoting" a character other than a tiny addition to your singleplayer game. And some of your pastLets give a fair review here. Mass Effect 3 is a fantastically put together game overall. That being said it does have some shortcomings, which is why I give it an 8/10. The multiplayer is sub par and gives little in replay with lvl 20 being the cap and nothing really being gained from "Promoting" a character other than a tiny addition to your singleplayer game. And some of your past choices have no real noticeable influence within the game. On the upside the game is open to many types of players which is great to open the audience. You can play shooter straight forward who cares about story, pure story with simple combat and conversation control, or a balance between the two. Now with the story, overall still stays strong throughout minus some disappointments with the ending, my only real issue is that there is a lot that is left unexplained that on how your influence will effect future generations. Personally I think the trilogy ended strong and its a fantastic game even if you haven't played the first two. Give it a shot and don't let all these people scoring it low for no reason discourage you.… Expand

sohoguy

Mar 12, 2012

8

Played the game twice already, it's great. Dialogs, combat, graphics, sound, and, first of all, FUN factor - are all to notch. Only couple downsides for me:
1. Game's TOO SHORT! took me 27 hours and 12 saves to complete , and I was doing side missions. If you count cut-scenes, it makes action too short. 2. Soundtrack is BAD. In comparison to ME 1 (or even ME 2) it plain sucks. I guess theyPlayed the game twice already, it's great. Dialogs, combat, graphics, sound, and, first of all, FUN factor - are all to notch. Only couple downsides for me:
1. Game's TOO SHORT! took me 27 hours and 12 saves to complete , and I was doing side missions. If you count cut-scenes, it makes action too short. 2. Soundtrack is BAD. In comparison to ME 1 (or even ME 2) it plain sucks. I guess they hired Clint Mansell for his name (he's composer for Requiem for a Dream, Pi, Black Swan etc), but apparently has no idea how to make music for sci-fi video game. So game suffers from extensive use of simple arrangements and primitive harmonies. Some cut-scenes with music look like taken from soap opera, no wonder people reviewing them with anger (but it's because BAD MUSIC!)… Expand

mb22

Mar 12, 2012

8

I got the ps3 version, which I now regret deeply, due to the somewhat laggy experience. The games progress and story is totally ok, aswell as the fact that you can just plow though if you want, or run about doing errand and scanning and god knows what to build up your army.

The lag I mentioned? As far as I have experienced, its occurring mostly in the "in between moments", like in theI got the ps3 version, which I now regret deeply, due to the somewhat laggy experience. The games progress and story is totally ok, aswell as the fact that you can just plow though if you want, or run about doing errand and scanning and god knows what to build up your army.

The lag I mentioned? As far as I have experienced, its occurring mostly in the "in between moments", like in the Citadel and in the cutscenes. And its totally killing me in the menus at some points, but so far I have not seen it in combat. *knock on wood*

Now dont get me wrong, its not a bad game, despite the fps issues. That (alongside some other minor bugs) is the only really bad thing if you ask me. I love the fact that you can choose if you want to do it like an actiongame, a story experience or something in between. The class choices are the same as before. If you want to get it, get it for xbox or pc, not for the ps3.… Expand

Kevinj37

Mar 12, 2012

8

I love this game and Bioware games in general. Great story, great characters, I actually felt regret when I had to make a tough call in the Geth storyline. I haven't finished yet and I've been playing constantly since it came out- tons of content! Would have given it a ten, except I deducted one point for the DLC BS they pulled, and 1 point for the multi-player, which I can't accessI love this game and Bioware games in general. Great story, great characters, I actually felt regret when I had to make a tough call in the Geth storyline. I haven't finished yet and I've been playing constantly since it came out- tons of content! Would have given it a ten, except I deducted one point for the DLC BS they pulled, and 1 point for the multi-player, which I can't access because I don't happen to know any other players, and public games are inaccessible to first-time players (tried to join one and was immediately booted, presumably for my level). But, as far as the gameplay goes, this is among the best I've ever played.… Expand

Raydiva

Mar 12, 2012

8

This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. The game was fun to play and entertaining to watch, it was almost perfect except for a few things. One of the first things I noticed is the lack of LI's for a straight female character. You either had to import one from a previous game or that you have Kaidan as the VS. Even the ones you import from ME2, only one really comes through. There are the few loop holes but considering the scope of this thing, that can be understandable. The game also seems extremely short when compared to the the previous two games, but that might be due to the lack of DLCs. The biggest let down was the ending itself. We were told since the first ME game that our choices matter and will continue to matter all the way to the end of the series...they lied. Unless the ending is a dream/nightmare as what it seems to be and we are only waiting for an update or DLC to continue the game...the ending is the biggest disappoint in a game I've had in over a decade. The game is fun, draws you in and is re-playable just to try to find all the stuff you miss on the first time through but the ending and lack of male LIs for FShep brings the score down from a high 9 to a low 8.… Expand

Behemoth1993

Mar 13, 2012

8

This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. Ok people the reviews here are not fare whatsoever and the reviews by the critics like IGN are paid off and overestimated. On my scale it deserves a 94 and should stay there. Now to explain my reasons. This is the final chapter in the series and it is more emotional and character centric then every other game in the series. The game is hands down not the best in the series but it sure as hell is not the worse. The mechanics are pretty good not as fluid as two was but still pretty good for all the added features. The kinect addition is awesome, but flawed. The flaws come with the commands where it cannot detect the words you say because of accents (I have a brooklynite accent). If you have your tv up to loud that also plays a bug role in the flaws because the kinect picks up the weirdest things from the audio coming out this added with the delay with your speech and the command being interpreted is a little annoying, but acceptable. I often found myself just using the kinect because it was much simpler and allowed me to focus on my enemies, however at the end of the game it becomes way to difficult to leave to the unreliable kinect features. So when it comes to mechanics and hardware its ok but not perfect. On to the game. Its freaking amazing it is not as striking as two but is still damn good. The reason why people feel it is bad is because it is not like two. What i have to say is duh it is a new game a new scenario and a hell of alot of different things happened in the time between games. The focus mostly on the psyche of shepard is magnificent. I say this purely because as a Marine I know of the trails and the pain and bioware id an amazing job. To be honest i understand everyone's distaste because of this. To be honest i agree with all the reasons why people hate it, but do i think the game sucks **** no why because its mass effect i love this game so much i bought three collectors edition one for each of my consoles so i love it, but was this perfect NO! The ending was an atrocity and the fact that we didnt get to play with the people we already had our hearts with like in me 2 was not smart at all. Instead they brought the people from the first game and brought us back to a time where we felt was long gone. The way bioware and EA has gone about the game was not the best, but none the less the games flaws can be overlooked because of its beauty (gfx), storytelling, gameplay, mechanics, and the awesomeness of the protagonist. I live my life by the paragon and doing whats right and making hard choices everyday and thats through the example of the main character shepard. Now do i advise people to buy the game if they havent played the first and second.......NO! to me there are far to many gaps left and it makes it less enjoyable. Do I advise buying it if you are a fan or have played the others....... yes because even though not the best it is amazing and is on the level of two just not above it like we would all hope. Now my last advisement play the first game as paragon with all side missions done and doing everything good, than play the second game with all side missions and loyalty missions done as paragon and survive with everyone, then play the third with all your imports and play as a paragon and do all the side missions and you will see the greatest series of games unfold into a great and magnificent lesson of life. After you do everything that i asked you would have gotten the best experience out of the game and the gameplay and story of three will make up for its horrific ending. With this said Mass effect is amazing and i am upset that bioware ****ed up certain parts and you should be ashamed. I mainly blame EA and there ****ing piece of **** people.… Expand

clasher101

Mar 13, 2012

8

Very solid finale to an epic trilogy, those who bash this game should be ashamed of themselves, if the developers didn't take a gamble in making a dialogue heavy series that requires you to make tough decisions and treat you as an mature gamer then they wouldn't have anything to complain about do they.
That said some glitches are evident that stagnates the otherwise great gameplay.Very solid finale to an epic trilogy, those who bash this game should be ashamed of themselves, if the developers didn't take a gamble in making a dialogue heavy series that requires you to make tough decisions and treat you as an mature gamer then they wouldn't have anything to complain about do they.
That said some glitches are evident that stagnates the otherwise great gameplay. Missions are never boring, dialogues are epic and time will fly by while you fight the reapers.… Expand

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

Glogglies

Mar 13, 2012

8

It's a polarizing finale to what some gamers consider one of the best franchises in videogaming. For me, Mass Effect 3 was a fantastic journey, well told, nicely fleshed out, and incredibly beautiful (at times); but the main issue in this game comes with it's final scenes, and that's where the replayability of the game can really be weakened. This game has some gripping scenes, some willIt's a polarizing finale to what some gamers consider one of the best franchises in videogaming. For me, Mass Effect 3 was a fantastic journey, well told, nicely fleshed out, and incredibly beautiful (at times); but the main issue in this game comes with it's final scenes, and that's where the replayability of the game can really be weakened. This game has some gripping scenes, some will even have you in tears if you're one for sappy scenes. There are a number of moments that really heavily on your knowledge of previous games, in order to pull at your heart strings, but I think any gamer coming into this will appreciate the way a lot of the scenes are choreographed and written. Another noteworthy point is the voice acting, which is very well done (aside from the protagonist, unusually).
Biowares signature morality and choice system returns here, but it feels really old and outdated. Heres the gist of it, pick the top choice you're being the nice guy, pick the bottom choice you're being the bad guy. There's little room to really give the player real choice, it all really boils down to if you want to be bad or good. I was impressed with the graphics here, but the CGI cutscenes seemed a notch down in graphical quality than the actual gameplay, which was incredibly distracting. And the character animations, face models, character pop ins etc will be immediately noticeable to anyone playing the game. It's pretty bad. But somehow, despite my gripes, I had a hell of a ride with this game. The final hours of the game are incredibly suspenseful, and there are moments where this game is down right brilliant. Steer clear of the multiplayer in this one, forgive the sometimes laughable animations, and try to hold of on beating the game for as long as possible. This one's not devoid of flaws, but any player who wants to call it a disaster is just kidding themselves.… Expand

Gothic_Sora

Mar 14, 2012

8

This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. I loved this game up until the last moments everything little choice I had made for good or ill was coming full circle. Okay most Still not sure how the Illusive man got past the Omega 4 Relay or recovered any thing but having made friends with everyone in 2 means they're still around and helpful, The only other thing that didn't carry over right is that Udina is now on the council, (I put Anderson there) But Rex is leading the Krogan and that's helpful and Mordin is fighting the Genophage because I talked him into it. And if you load in a ME2 character you keep all of your hard earned levels allowing yo to kick ass right out of the gate. The only problem is like most people have said the ending choices all three of them generally suck reactor fumes. You die in all of them only 2 of them really solve the problem (depending on what you think the right solution is) and if you save the Geth one of them will commit genocide in on the wrong species. it's good game other than that though.… Expand

Enjorous

Mar 14, 2012

8

This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. Okay, I have to say that I am, always have been, and always will be a gigantic fan of the Mass Effect series. I loved Mass Effect 3...right up until the very end. Then it lost me. Don't get me wrong, the first 85-90% of the game were phenomenal. You get to see the repercussions of what you did in the first two games. You have a chance to unite the galaxy under a single banner. Humans, Turians, Asari, Krogan, Salarians, Quarians, and even the Geth will join you in your fight to defeat the reapers. The story telling and narrative were superb! The best in the trilogy bar none. I was on the edge of tears more times than I could count. Not only from sadness, but from joy and happiness as well. My first play through was with a spacer, and it struck me like a hammer when I found out that Shepard's mother was still alive and safe. I'm also an ardent Liara shipper, and their romantic arc was unbelievable.

The gameplay was very similar to ME2 with more mission based combat. What I liked more about this one was the ability to gain experience and level up in the middle of missions. It made it feel more like a traditional role playing game. The leveling experience has also been expanded and made more customizable. Instead of being able to "evolve" a power once, it's now possible to do it three times with each ability.

The weapons have been greatly expanded. This was one of my greatest gripes in ME2. The weapons are also customizable with a limited number of mods that do help you play the way you want to. If you want to snipe, there's a scope option for the assault rifle, smg, and heavy pistol. If you want to take things up close and personal there are melee attachments for both the pistol and shotgun (the shotgun upgrade is a damn bayonet).

The multi-player is pretty fun. I was really skeptical about it to begin with, and I have to say that I really don't like the function that it serves in influencing the single player campaign. It's all co-op which is nice, and still squad based. I don't have a lot to say about it other than it's a moderately pleasurable experience. Now let's deal with the 9 ton whale in the room...the ending. The ending is a giant piece of go se. And if you want an in depth reason why I'm sure other user reviews are willing to tell you why a hundred different ways. I don't believe that the ending is enough to make the game seem like a waste of time and money, it isn't. Yes there are a hundred ways to make it better and as a member of the Retake ME3 movement I'm trying to do that. But I also want to say that this is a great game and the ending shouldn't dissuade anyone from playing it.

If you want to avoid the ending here's what I suggest. When you're on earth and you get blasted by Harbinger turn off the console or exit from the game. Make up your own ending, make up the ending YOU want. At least until BioWare gets their head on straight and release the ending that we've been waiting for! Until then, hold the line, and retake ME3.… Expand

CptFlwrs

Mar 15, 2012

8

Most are slating the game due to the ending but ignoring the rest of the game. Up until the last 10 minutes it is still an awesome game and does the other two proud. The ending does bring it down massively but the journey up until that point is one incomparable to most games - I did not want to stop playing for anything, not even basic food needs. That being said, the foul aftertaste ofMost are slating the game due to the ending but ignoring the rest of the game. Up until the last 10 minutes it is still an awesome game and does the other two proud. The ending does bring it down massively but the journey up until that point is one incomparable to most games - I did not want to stop playing for anything, not even basic food needs. That being said, the foul aftertaste of the ending makes me not want to pick it up again through fear of having to repeat the last stretch. The side stories you overhear, the spectacular views, improved combat and the soundtrack still make this one of my favourite games of all time, collective with the other two in the series. I can't recommend this game to anyone enough... just make sure you shut it off before the end if you want to avoid gut wrenching emotional pain :)… Expand

KingWilke

Mar 15, 2012

8

I love the Mass Effect series. I loved Mass Effect 3. The pacing was near genius and the story was stirring. Your interactions with your crew and others was fantastic. The gameplay was a great middle of the road between ME1 and ME2 allowing for more customization without inventory overkill. This game kept me up later then intended and took up a quick 30 plus hours of my life. As I watchedI love the Mass Effect series. I loved Mass Effect 3. The pacing was near genius and the story was stirring. Your interactions with your crew and others was fantastic. The gameplay was a great middle of the road between ME1 and ME2 allowing for more customization without inventory overkill. This game kept me up later then intended and took up a quick 30 plus hours of my life. As I watched characters I've grown to love appear and react to all the decisions made in my previous 80 hours of time in ME1 and 2 I thought, "Wow, this could be the greatest epic of not only video game history, but of entertainment history." Never before has something with this much ambition been made in games.

So, why an eight?

Because, without ruining anything you receive almost no closure.

Because Bioware promised a ending that would utilize all I had done in the series, and it wasn't true.

After finishing every Bioware game I have played I immediately have want to play again. Do things different. Play as I didn't before and experience all the differences. This time though, as the credits rolled, I set down my controller and felt betrayed.

I had been promised so much and I have never been so disappointed. I heard complaints about the end before I finished and thought that it couldn't be that bad. I heard so much negative about Dragon Age 2 (another Bioware game) and I loved it. I'm on my third play in it.

Not so with ME3. I have no ambition to ever play it again. The media I feel is not being fair. I have seen these same websites and magazines kill a games score based on the ending. Not so this time. The reviews were glowing, calling ME3 a perfect conclusion.

Really?

Who remembers when at the end of star wars Luke was being electrified and Darth Vader walked towards the emperor and the scene suddenly changed to Leia and Han on Dagobah swimming in a swamp and then went to black?

No one?

Cause that's how the end of ME3 felt. You were led on this amazing journey. You reach the end only to know that the journey was BS. It felt like being cheated on by a significant other. It felt like betrayal.

Is the game a good game? Yes, very much so. The gameplay, multiplayer, and 99% of the story are amazing. That 1% that isn't?

It was Bioware screwing your girlfriend while you were at work and then texting you pictures.… Expand

RPGameX

Mar 17, 2012

8

Oh what a tale has been woven. Itâ

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

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

psykeron

Mar 18, 2012

8

It has been quite a journey. can't talk about everything due to the ltd. space. no spoilers.
-------The Combat 9/10-------
The combat is visibly better than all ME1 and 2. The level design is awesome. There are many ways to attack a situation. In the Grissom Academy level at one stage you can choose to go for an all out ground attack or take out people on the stairs and rain hell fromIt has been quite a journey. can't talk about everything due to the ltd. space. no spoilers.
-------The Combat 9/10-------
The combat is visibly better than all ME1 and 2. The level design is awesome. There are many ways to attack a situation. In the Grissom Academy level at one stage you can choose to go for an all out ground attack or take out people on the stairs and rain hell from above. The combat is just fluid and nice.

-------The Locations 9/10-------
I believe ME3 offers many unique locations compared to ME1&2 (you are free to correct me here). The locations were just breathtaking and well designed. Visiting the temple of Althame and many many others that I don't want to spoil for you.

-------The Story and The World 7/10-------
The story in mass effect is good but it pales in comparison to ME1 and ME2. And I'm sure that you will agree that ME2's story pales in comparison to ME1. The problem with ME3 is that the game doesn't let you connect with the story. You go on big mission from one planet to the other and that is about it. The player doesn't get the chance to feel for his/her galaxy. The story in ME1 and ME2 were good because I could connect to the world through short missions and random conversations. In ME3, I did not connect. There were no small stories and missions that made me feel like I was a part of this world. Just to highlight my point, an Elcor ambassador will plead you to save his people from his homeworld. This particular mission got me excited. I believed that I was going to land on the Elcor homeworld and save them but that never happened. I just scanned their planet and they were magically saved. This is what made me really lose that connection to the world of Mass Effect. Mass Effect 3 offers no new species and cultures for you to explore. Remember in ME1 and 2 where you landed on an unexplored planet to find something awesome, that connection is what made them so awesome. ME3 really lacks in making that connection and making you feel and live the story.

-------The Characters 5/10-------
I am very disappointed in the characters. For those of you who played ME2, and had Zaeed Masani as a squad mate. Remember how he would say random things when you clicked on him. There weren't many dialog options and therefore there was no deep connection with Zaeed Masani. Now just expand that situation to every character in Mass Effect 3. In ME3, you have a few conversations using the wheel; after that you just go press 'A' and the character will say something and then you press 'A' again and so on. There is no connection and no immersion in the conversation and the characters. In ME1 and 2, the conversation wheel was a way of making you part of the conversation. Even if there were no new dialog options, I would still try to start a conversation with a team member. The fact that they looked at me and acknowledged my willingness to start a conversation made me feel connected to them as my team mates(in ME1&2). In ME3, the lack of conversation really bugged me. Its what I admired the series for and here it was non-existent. I am sure all of you let Kaidan die in ME1, I think it was because he didn't have many conversations with us in the game. In ME3, I feel this way about all the squad members. The only reason I feel a connection to some of the characters in ME3 is because of my past experiences with them.

-------Mission 8/10-------
there are only two kinds of missions in ME3: main missions and fetch missions. The main missions are part of the story and that is pretty self explanatory. The fetch missions are the worst missions ever made in ME history. You don't talk to people to get fetch missions. You get missions as you overhear conversations and these missions involve scanning worlds to find items.

-------The Ending 10/10-------
The game was a chore in a lot of ways but the ending was awesome. I know a lot of people are complaining about the ending; that the ending didn't account for all the choices you made during the game. If people are talking about the events leading up to the ending, then yeah the consequences of your choices could have been reflected better. But that is a problem with the story telling and not the ending. I was disconnected from the world of ME3 for the most part of the game but the ending pulled me right back into it. It was the only moment that I felt connected to the game. I felt my heart leap, feelings of joy & sorrow, my choices and adventures flashed before my mind's eye, I reminisced about the people I had met on my long journey, the conversations, the connections, the love and the hate. It all just rushed back to me and I shed a tear as i saw the consequences of 'my choice' unfold itself. In the end, I felt that I had made a difference in my world, I felt that I was Commander John Shepard. Watch the credits till the end :) This game should have probably spent one more year in development but THANK YOU BIOWARE, for all the memories.… Expand

Kinoru07

Mar 19, 2012

8

The game mechanics have been improved from ME2 with improved AI on higher difficulty and the inclusion of better melee attack capabilities. Quest/sub-quest UI is one of the issues a player will contend with. As well as some cover issues.
The game's story telling is very well executed until the last few minutes because it reduces the whole series re-playability. There are still some bugsThe game mechanics have been improved from ME2 with improved AI on higher difficulty and the inclusion of better melee attack capabilities. Quest/sub-quest UI is one of the issues a player will contend with. As well as some cover issues.
The game's story telling is very well executed until the last few minutes because it reduces the whole series re-playability. There are still some bugs that Bioware will have to deal with across all platforms to make the game more enjoyable. Multi-player is fairly decent but needs some more development into it to make it worth playing on its own.… Expand

Rainiar

Mar 19, 2012

8

This game was great, don't listen to the people who will whine and moan because of a flaw the game had which makes it an "automatic zero". The ending could have been a lot better, but it doesn't kill the game. I loved the smaller stories much more this time around however. In ME2, Miranda's sister didn't have any affect on me, and blowing up the old Cerebus facility for Jack just madeThis game was great, don't listen to the people who will whine and moan because of a flaw the game had which makes it an "automatic zero". The ending could have been a lot better, but it doesn't kill the game. I loved the smaller stories much more this time around however. In ME2, Miranda's sister didn't have any affect on me, and blowing up the old Cerebus facility for Jack just made her look like an idiot. This time around, I was cheering when someone was being a bad ass and ripping through the enemies and nearly cried when someone died for a cause. People look at the broad subject too much, I like games where you can get a different experience by just playing the side missions.… Expand

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

JingoJango

Mar 21, 2012

8

Great game, but slightly disappointing compared with ME2. The thing I loved about ME2 was the believable world the game took place in, the character development and the feeling that there were real consequences to your actions. ME3 has far less depth, with side quests simply being fetch quests initiated by overhearing NPC incidental conversations. I was also annoyed by how easy it was toGreat game, but slightly disappointing compared with ME2. The thing I loved about ME2 was the believable world the game took place in, the character development and the feeling that there were real consequences to your actions. ME3 has far less depth, with side quests simply being fetch quests initiated by overhearing NPC incidental conversations. I was also annoyed by how easy it was to skip passed prominent characters from ME2 without ever meeting them. (Got an email from Thane, but by the time I returned to Citadel it had already been invaded and I can only assume he died, because he never was in that hospital) The addition of multiplayer makes up for a lot of these sins, which although it is just horde mode with no pvp, I'm finding it highly addictive. I don't agree with calls to change the ending, it is what it is, but can't shake the slight feeling of disappointment it failed to live up to the promise of ME2. Still great game that I would recommend to anyone.… Expand

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

Sprity

Mar 24, 2012

8

This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. Disappointing ending aside...I really enjoyed Mass Effect 3. Though it does feel a bit stripped down compared to Mass Effect 2. There is only one hub world. Your journal doesn't update and give you new information to help with quests. A majority of the side quests are nothing more than fetching something from a planet by simply scanning it, while side missions that have you land on a planet often feel more like a tease and doesn't feel like there are as many this time.

Other aspects like Paragon/Renegade and the RPG elements don't feel as necessary this time. It really is more of a 3rd person shooter now. Which I was fine with since my favorite parts of Mass Effect has always been the story and the universe Bioware created. All of which is expanded upon in this game, and that's why the ending feels so painful to many fans, cause it seems to throw it all away.

Another questionable decision by Bioware is that it feels like they ignored Mass Effect 2 beyond Cerberus. Mass Effect 3 references the 1st game more than anything. The squad you had in 2nd game(assuming they survived) are put in small supporting roles and many simply have cameos. It makes me wonder why it was made such a big deal on whether they survived or not when they have no impact beyond the second game. And I think it can be assumed that Mass Effect 2 is more popular than the 1st overall, so when seems odd that the writers seem to ignore a great deal of it.

And without spoiling the ending too much...I did not need some fluffy scene with Shepard skipping on a beach with Ashley or anything like that. But when your trilogy is about saving the galaxy from giant robots...one would expect it to end on a more positive note. At least with some closure. But unfortunately Shepard's goal for the entire series felt over shadowed, thus lacking any real victory for the player. There are a lot of games with bad endings, but when the series and story is so good, it makes it all the more painful.

I know my review seems awfully critical, but really did love the game overall. It is still better most other games on the market.… Expand

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

Tokkas

Mar 28, 2012

8

This is a stunning game, the ending aside. We all know it's not what we were promised, but people are allowing the ending to cloud their judgement of a massively proficient game. I admit I haven't touched the multiplayer (not my cup of tea), so I won't mention that in this review. There are other weak points, the picking up of random missions is a bit arbitrary, the reaper alertness everyThis is a stunning game, the ending aside. We all know it's not what we were promised, but people are allowing the ending to cloud their judgement of a massively proficient game. I admit I haven't touched the multiplayer (not my cup of tea), so I won't mention that in this review. There are other weak points, the picking up of random missions is a bit arbitrary, the reaper alertness every time you scan is annoying and James Vega is a waste of a squad space and a pointless character. I'd also like to point out that the Day 1 DLC was a bad idea, with one mission and a character that brings little to the game.
But the good? The variety of enemies is much better than previous games, requiring different tactics to take them down. The combat is vastly improved from ME2, the enemy AI is a large part of this. They will flank you, lay down cover fire to protect weaker units and play to their own strengths. It's tougher all round and makes you feel like you are fighting for your survival every step of the way.
The story is fantastic, if you enter into conversations with many of the NPC's you will see the decisions you made in previous stories and how they affect these character's reaction to you. And there are many of these previous characters to interact with. There are genuine twists and tragedies and in parts I was shocked, overjoyed and thrilled. So much work has gone into immersing you in this world and it is a rewarding experience.
The ending is a weak point as I've said, but judging a game on this alone is unfair to the people who have produced it and those of us who didn't feel cheated. I actually felt hopeful that another story will follow, maybe not Shepherd and doubtful it will be called Mass Effect, but with some new ideas and set in the same universe.
A fitting end to one of the best series I have ever played.… Expand

sheptooth

Mar 29, 2012

8

This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. The Mass Effect series is really the only thing that has kept me playing video games for the past three or four years. I'm a massive fan and have come to care deeply about the universe, the characters, and the story I have shaped through Shepard. For these reasons, it was a crushing disappointment for the game to end the way it did. Unlike many people, I don't begrudge Bioware the limited NUMBER of endings. I felt that it was a game FULL of endings. Regardless, though, the endings are just painful to witness for fans of the series. In a mere five minute stretch, the end manages to fly in the face of countless bits of established lore. More agonizing is the fact that the endings fail to answer virtually all the important questions we may have had and, worse, actually prompt us to ask countless new ones. These are not profound questions about life and the universe, nor questions that force us to thoughtfully interpret and reflect (a la The Road). No, they are questions like "Where the **** was Joker going? How did he pick up my squadmates? Why aren't they charred to a crisp like everyone else? Where did Anderson come from? Why would my effective military strength change my choices on the Crucible? How did Shepard survive atmospheric re-entry in the "best" ending? Did he make it to the Crucible at all? WHO THE **** IS THAT STAR-KID? WHERE DID HE COME FROM? WHY IS HE BEING INTRODUCED IN THE LAST 3 MINUTES OF THE ENTIRE SERIES?" Those kinds of questions are not indicative of a deep, thought-provoking ending. They're indicative of bad storytelling. After the standard Bioware set over the first two games, how they could crash and burn so badly at the most vital moment is just perplexing.

What makes it even more perplexing is that the game is MASTERFULLY constructed up to the last few minutes. I enjoyed the game immensely through my entire 30+ hours. From Thessia on, I was so enthralled that I played 8 hours straight to the end. The combat flows immensely better even than in ME2 (the new style of gun sounds is AWESOME), the Ashley romance was well-done (wasn't a big fan of Liara's, so I restarted), and the choices you make carry the weight of your entire time in the Mass Effect Universe. The graphics are good, not amazing, though they are however markedly improved in characters' faces, facial expressions, and body language. Though there are few new interesting characters, I think this is appropriate to the final chapter of a saga. Vega is a pretty standard soldier type, but we get a very interesting EDI-Joker progression, and satisfying (if very sad) conclusions to a number of other characters' sub-plots. Unfortunately, this last point in ME3's favor is more or less negated by the ending --- the fate of everyone and everything seems once again up in the air.

I waited three weeks to write this review so that I could make an objective observation: Despite the incredibly disappointing ending, the game was excellent. It really, really was. As angry, confused, and physically ill as I felt after finishing Mass Effect 3, it is still a testament to the quality of the game and the franchise that it was able to make me feel ANYTHING as strongly as I did. While I understand this intellectually, however, the game has lost a lot of its emotional value to me going forward. I don't see the point in picking up Mass Effect or Mass Effect 2 again until Bioware addresses the problems with the ending (whenever that eventually happens). Until then, I will set Mass Effect aside. I can only hope that Bioware can use its second chance to give this saga an ending worthy of the journey we all took to get there.… Expand

Noobara

Apr 3, 2012

8

Mass Effect 3 is for the most part a brilliant game and manages to balance RPG elements and Shooter mechanics even better than its predecessors. The story is for 99% of the game fantastic and concludes many of the story lines from the first 2 games. The most talked about flaw with the game is it's poor ending. the one everyone is going on about and rating the game so poorly because of. YesMass Effect 3 is for the most part a brilliant game and manages to balance RPG elements and Shooter mechanics even better than its predecessors. The story is for 99% of the game fantastic and concludes many of the story lines from the first 2 games. The most talked about flaw with the game is it's poor ending. the one everyone is going on about and rating the game so poorly because of. Yes the ending is not Bioware's finest moment of story telling and it might spoil the experience slightly for many people, but it should not completely put you off playing what is such a good game for the previous 30 hours of gameplay. The other major flaw with the game is that many of the characters from ME2 are strangely absent, and it would have been nice for them to feature more. Especially for PS3 owners who have less attachment to the ME1 characters than X-Box owners. Although the game lets it self down at the very end its still a game everyone should play - however its best played after completing the other 2 games as you will be far more attached to the story if you've already spent hours with Shepherd and his/her crew.… Expand

DANNOMAN_88

Apr 7, 2012

8

OK- had to review this, just finished the game, and then looked at all of the bad reviews, had to throw in my 2 cents.

This game is not a 0 or a 1 - not a 10, but a very good game. I suspect everyone giving it a 0 or 1 mostly hated losing a loved character that they invested so much time in and the ENDING. To me, the game felt similar to ME2, but more dramatic and BIG - I was blown awayOK- had to review this, just finished the game, and then looked at all of the bad reviews, had to throw in my 2 cents.

This game is not a 0 or a 1 - not a 10, but a very good game. I suspect everyone giving it a 0 or 1 mostly hated losing a loved character that they invested so much time in and the ENDING. To me, the game felt similar to ME2, but more dramatic and BIG - I was blown away with some of the impact this game had. I really enjoyed it. I can understand how people did not like the ending, but this was a story arc that was planned from the beginning, and I can accept that the developer decided that the story arc ended like this. If Shepherd was able to live, I guess that people would be giving it a similar score to ME2. I overlooked some of the cheesiness and warts that the game has, and enjoyed the journey. I give it an edge over ME2. On one hand - much better combat, and real emotional impact for me. One the other hand - poorer writing, less free will, and some unnecessary searches for random 'war assets' that only took away from the game. THE GOOD: 1. The cinematic quality was very good. 2. The battles and action is so much better than ME1 and 2, where I felt battles were not as good as the role-playing elements. Every battle in ME3 felt felt exciting and like I had some valid options. The diverse enemies kept me on my toes. I was stuck early in the game on Regular difficulty, redoing a battle like 10 times, until I got used to the new more realistic battles, and then I was able to play most of it on a harder difficulty, and I really enjoyed the fights, instead of just trying to get through them to get back to the story.
3. Throughout much of the game, my actions from ME2 and ME3 MATTERED - I was SO pissed off and emotionally invested when my actions from the games turned out to wipe out a group of people in the game and had one of my members commit suicide. I was really upset, but that really added to the idea that my actions have ramifications. Wow, I at the time I thought that I was doing the right things, but in hindsight I could see how my decisions led to the bad result. THE BAD:
1. Too short.
2. The game does take away some control - your character has less leeway - the story and the cinematic quality of the game sacrifice some free will.
3. EA's and MSoft's money grubbing ways. I will rarely play a new game - I will play a used copy most of the time. I will never buy downloadable content on XBL for this game or another game. I will probably never pay to play games on XBL. Why? Horrible value! I don't want to be bled dry by the greedy big names. Look at the appstore model - a bunch of free and affordable entertainment. I don't regret buying this.… Expand

CaptainAwesomer

Apr 25, 2012

8

This is the best looking of all the Mass Effects, they finally used some decent anti-aliasing on the edges.

It's a perfect game except for midway through when you have to switch discs back and forth about 8 times. A few boss battle's difficulty are 10x higher than the rest of the game (or even the level they're on). And using the A button for everything is infuriating, especially onThis is the best looking of all the Mass Effects, they finally used some decent anti-aliasing on the edges.

It's a perfect game except for midway through when you have to switch discs back and forth about 8 times. A few boss battle's difficulty are 10x higher than the rest of the game (or even the level they're on). And using the A button for everything is infuriating, especially on multiplayer when you NEED to revive a team mate, but instead you send your character into cover and everyone dies.

The Day 1 DLC doesn't even matter, because the rest of the game is just packed with missions and story and cut-scenes. To finish all of those takes around 35 hours.… Expand

1voiceoreason

May 15, 2012

8

Great game and a fine way to end the journey that was the mass effect series. The Inclusion of "horde-mode" multiplayer was great because it only added to the experience and using those cool powers in a multiplayer setting was enjoyable. Of course the big topic was the ending... i didn't love it but i understood the direction and think it was perfectly mediocre. Still a great game thoughGreat game and a fine way to end the journey that was the mass effect series. The Inclusion of "horde-mode" multiplayer was great because it only added to the experience and using those cool powers in a multiplayer setting was enjoyable. Of course the big topic was the ending... i didn't love it but i understood the direction and think it was perfectly mediocre. Still a great game though and look forward to playing more in this universe.… Expand

enFenix

May 16, 2012

8

Despite having a rough start, with some hiccups along the way, and a troubled finish to the series, I thoroughly enjoyed the game.

Granted, I went into playing this game being aware that there was a very large outcry of complaints regarding the endings available in the game. With that in mind, I was prepped for a very disappointing ending to the title and the series. Regarding theDespite having a rough start, with some hiccups along the way, and a troubled finish to the series, I thoroughly enjoyed the game.

Granted, I went into playing this game being aware that there was a very large outcry of complaints regarding the endings available in the game. With that in mind, I was prepped for a very disappointing ending to the title and the series. Regarding the endings, I will say this one non-spoiling thing: They're not half as bad as the die-hards are suggesting. The game makes suggestions throughout it's entire story about what would be on the table in the last few moments of the story, so I'm unaware why people were so shocked.

The diversity of endings, in my opinion, were nothing different from the previous installations. Mass Effect 1 & 2 both had endings which varried SLIGHTLY depending on many of the players decisions throughout the titles, however the major results of each of the original 2 titles endings never changed. The diversity was in supporting details. So my thoughts regarding the backlash of the chosen ending of the game is for people to stop complaining and enjoy the game for what it is.

Outside of the more controversial issue, the story of the game is wonderfully written, and incorporates many facets of the original 2 games, including the decisions made by the player in the original titles.

The details surrounding the core plot of the game during my play-through vastly differed from that of my friends experience. I was impressed by the games potential for diversity in ancillary details.

Graphically, to be honest, I feel the engine has hit it's apex and is beginning to age. However, it was still a visually-enjoyable game.

The game-play experience itself was well fleshed-out, although I feel the second instalment of the series takes the crown in this category. The side-quest of searching through the galaxy for bonus resources/items/etc was very basic and un-interesting. The combat system seemed to be a little flawed this time around, where actions I expected my character would make were not, well, made. The voice-recognition for the Kinect was fun for a bit, but then become an irritation. That is my own personal experience, others may enjoy it greatly.

Overall, I suggest you be aware that the ending has some controversy around it, and otherwise enjoy this game for everything it offers between the start and the finish.… Expand

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 noThe 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

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 averageIt 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

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

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

mailordermonstr

Nov 11, 2012

8

BEST ENDING EVER!!!! OK, I'm just fooling around. But honestly, the ending isn't that horrible. You'll hear a lot of people complain about lack of options. This is somewhat true, but what do you expect? With the amount of choices made throughout the ME series, it would've taken individually customized endings for the thousands of different outcomes. But enough about all those whiny ****BEST ENDING EVER!!!! OK, I'm just fooling around. But honestly, the ending isn't that horrible. You'll hear a lot of people complain about lack of options. This is somewhat true, but what do you expect? With the amount of choices made throughout the ME series, it would've taken individually customized endings for the thousands of different outcomes. But enough about all those whiny **** lets get to the review. If you've played the previous ME games, then you'll know pretty much what to expect when it comes to game play, graphics and sound. They're all top-notch. You'll likely run into all the characters you met in previous ME games, though your team will be made mostly of new people. The area where this installment detours is the story. Your goal in ME3 is to rally the troops for galactic war. Doesn't make for much of a story in its self, but rather offers various smaller stories as well as some closure to past stories. Will it leave you with some unanswered questions? Probably. The ME universe is simply too large for everything to be easily explained. And remember, this may be the end of Shepard's story line, but it's not the end of the ME universe. Also gone from ME is the tedious planet scanning found in ME2. Another addition of ME3 is the multiplayer. It's basically a horde mode. I had lots of fun with this and fortunately Bioware has shown a great deal of support with free DLC maps and characters. If you enjoy the combat in ME you'll enjoy this mode. If you enjoyed previous ME games, you'll enjoy this one. If you haven't played the previous games, than why are you reading this? And if you're one of those people that hated the ending (again, why are you reading this?), go pick up a book. Those things are nothing but story.… Expand

AJ_antipop

Apr 15, 2014

8

Is the ending disappointing? Yes, very much so. Does that alone make this game awful as a whole? Absolutely not. The characters are all still just as likeable, the dialogue is top-notch, the graphics are both gorgeous and fitting, and the majority of the plot is incredibly intense and riveting, not to mention the gameplay (mainly gunfights) remaining fun, accessible, and dare-I-say,Is the ending disappointing? Yes, very much so. Does that alone make this game awful as a whole? Absolutely not. The characters are all still just as likeable, the dialogue is top-notch, the graphics are both gorgeous and fitting, and the majority of the plot is incredibly intense and riveting, not to mention the gameplay (mainly gunfights) remaining fun, accessible, and dare-I-say, perhaps even a bit more challenging than before, with the inclusion of many new difficult and powerful enemies.

Overall, this is still an excellent game, but the ending (even with the free DLC) does hinder it a bit. I can certainly see why people were so mind-numbingly upset before the DLC came out, as the original ending has an extreme lack of details. I'd still recommend it to fans and anyone who likes RPG's and/or shooters, but BE SURE to download the DLC Ending, as I feel that's part of the reason I wasn't as furious as many others.… Expand

Diwvsen

Oct 4, 2012

8

Mass Effect 3 is a great game with some truly emotional moments and an overall better combat-system than the previous ME games. Commander Shephard and many of the iconic characters are back to save the galaxy when the Reaper invasion finally arives during the very beginning of the game. The quest to save all life from certain annihilation takes you to many different locations, includingMass Effect 3 is a great game with some truly emotional moments and an overall better combat-system than the previous ME games. Commander Shephard and many of the iconic characters are back to save the galaxy when the Reaper invasion finally arives during the very beginning of the game. The quest to save all life from certain annihilation takes you to many different locations, including some you already know and some you've never seen. The graphics are great, offering great environmental variety and good character-animations. There are, however, some techical issues dragging the game slightly down. Don't expect the technical leap from ME2 to this game to be as dramatic as the one between the first two games was - ME3 in many ways looks and plays the same as the second installment in the franchise. The combat system works better than ever, and this time around it feels more like an RPG-shooter than the second game did, without being as clumsy as the first one. There is a lot of emphasis on weapon, armor and skill customization, which gives you a lot of ways to experiment with various playstyles until you find one thats suits you. Enemy AI has also been significantly improved. Not only are there now a lot more different enemies, they also behave very differently and will do everything from flanking you with shields, charging you and throwing grenades at you to expose you and take you down. The level design is also much better. Fighting areas are much bigger, which gives you more mobility and makes it easier to move from cover to cover. The classes work very differently and offer in themselves reason enough to replay the game. There are a lot of ways to experiment with your skill upgrades (as skills can evolve in many different ways), and this time around every class can use every weapon type at the cost of power-cooldown, which is a great addition. The Citadel is back and very atmospheric, but unfortunately it is quite boring to hang around, as sidequests are often fetch-quests that does not fit the conflict of the game.
On to the story, which of course, is the most important part of this finale. The story and conflict is epic in scale and offers some truly emotional moments and powerful choices as you resolve some of the conflicts that have been brewing throughout all three games. A lot of the characters from previous games return, some as squadmates and others as sidecharacters helping you on your quest. There are also some new characters introduced, which I think is unneccesary, since there already are so many great characters available from the previous games. Don't expect as great a cast of characters, or as great character development, as that of ME2. Despite the scale of the conflict there a lot of fetch-quest in this game. Shepard often has to drop in to save an important person, or retrieve and object, in order to get help from someone, which can feel poor from time to time. You'll also grow sick of the mission debriefings with Hacket that follows every mission. These are shallow and serves as a way to mark the end of a mission, thus giving you the feel of a game divided into levels, which does not suit the game. Choices from past games are well implemented in the way that characters respond to them, however, it is dissapointing that many past choices result in the same outcomes in this game. Mass Effect 3 also introduces multiplayer, which is very unneccesary. This is your typical Gears of War Horde mode clone, only it doesn't work as well and becomes boring after a while. It doesn\\\'t help that you have to play it in order to unlock the best endings possible. Mass Effect is best suited as a single-player experience, and should have remained one.
The ending of the game is emotional and clever, but it doesn't give you that epic conclusion that you would expect after such a long journey. Don't expect moments as moving and pumping as Shephard's speech during the finale of ME2. The biggest dissapointment here is that none of your previous choices really affect that ending, and that you have to play multiplayer to get the perfect variable. The inclusion of day-one dlc also drags the game down, especially since the character and his tale included are much needed to understand the story and universe.
Overall this game is an emotional experience that improves upon gameplay, but one that doesn't quite reach the heights of the previous games in terms of story and characters. Multiplayer shouldn't exist and the DLC should just have been a part of the game. The ending could have used more time and doesn't quite leave you with a satisfying conclusion as it should do after three games. Choices, both past and new, should have more impact as they did in previous games. Despite these isses, ME3 is an emotional and ambitious game that will likely hook you from beginning to end. If you are a hardcore ME fan, chances are you will be dissapoint… Expand

bigbiscits

Oct 9, 2012

8

The true over reaction of thousands of gamers has marred this amazing genre. No this game does not live up to its predecessors in anyway. The story OPTIONS feel more streamlined than before, the game play was the same as Mass Effect 2's, and of course the polarizing ending that crushed so many individuals.

The story line content felt more rushed and "to the point". Each mission was justThe true over reaction of thousands of gamers has marred this amazing genre. No this game does not live up to its predecessors in anyway. The story OPTIONS feel more streamlined than before, the game play was the same as Mass Effect 2's, and of course the polarizing ending that crushed so many individuals.

The story line content felt more rushed and "to the point". Each mission was just pick A or B until the end. (pick A, B, or C). This was a turn off and the side missions were very boring, most of the time I would pick them up and not even know how I had since they were triggered by random conversations going on in the world as you walked by. This was a big step down from the previous titles and took away from the experience. And of course the ending...The insanely overly infamous, polarizing ending. I personally did not like the ending along with everyone else. It was not what I wanted for my character. I do understand that this ending is what the writer's had in mind and I respect that and wish that they had not altered it. I understand this was their masterpiece that we were getting to take part in and what they want is what ultimately will happen. I think the majority of us understood that and reluctantly accept it. What stung so much though is that we didn't know it until the end. We felt like this was OUR masterpiece. Our story, to end how WE see fit. Unfortunately it was not. The game is still great even with the less than stellar ending. PEOPLE DO NOT LET THE NEGATIVE REVIEWS SCARE YOU!!!! They are all mostly from people very (understandably) disappointed with the ending. If you have not given the Mass Effect series a try I can not recommend it to you enough. Please go get Mass Effect 1 and start from the very beginning. Go through this massive, incredible story and decide for yourself. Even if the ending is upsetting, I would not take back a single second of my experience with the series. It is by far the best story in the history of gaming, bad ending or not.… Expand

Fabtech23

Nov 13, 2012

8

FULL DISCLOSURE: I am writing this review post "ending patch." Mass Effect 3 (and more importantly the entire series) is a triumph in video game story telling. This series has shown that interactive media can stand up to Hollywood and bring an emotional and compelling story into our living rooms and allow us to control the decisions made. The first Mass Effect revolutionized player choice.FULL DISCLOSURE: I am writing this review post "ending patch." Mass Effect 3 (and more importantly the entire series) is a triumph in video game story telling. This series has shown that interactive media can stand up to Hollywood and bring an emotional and compelling story into our living rooms and allow us to control the decisions made. The first Mass Effect revolutionized player choice. Mass Effect 2 expanded on this allowing you to completely ignore characters and their side quests, thus changing the outcome of the game, which would in turn change how Mass Effect 3 played out. Now on to Mass Effect 3. The controls are tight, the weapons have weight to them, and the story is emotionally gripping. Never once through the entire campaign did I think "meh, well come out on top and win this." BioWare wanted to project that sense of helplessness, and they did it well. Now, i stopped playing the game after hearing about the ending fiasco. I didnt want to see it. I didnt want the game series I loved so dearly to be ruined. I waited, and waited, and waited, and when that patch dropped, I fired my xbox up and finished the game. I was aware of how the ending played out, and with this patch applied, the ending gets a huge boost. Without it though I dont felt it would have ruined the game, not enough to justify a 0. The last 5% of the game sucking does not justify giving the first 95% a bad score. Thats not how reviews work. Mass Effect 3 is a polished, emotionally gripping, fun sci-fi rpg/shooter that will make you feel for your characters, and make you think about every decision presented to you. You owe it to yourself to play this game (and the first two)… Expand

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

nicoelcainri

Nov 16, 2012

8

ME3 is a real good game. I preferred the first ME but it's not the same context : In the third ME , we don't have really the time to explorate the universe because the earth is in danger. It makes sense. The original end is the only "black spot" , but with the extended cut , it's much better. I don't understand the others : do you know a lot of games where there are several different endsME3 is a real good game. I preferred the first ME but it's not the same context : In the third ME , we don't have really the time to explorate the universe because the earth is in danger. It makes sense. The original end is the only "black spot" , but with the extended cut , it's much better. I don't understand the others : do you know a lot of games where there are several different ends and when you can play more than 20 hours for only one end? Don't hesitate to buy it if you loved this franchise, you will not regret it!… Expand

society_max

Nov 25, 2012

8

a great action game, an overall great experience. Mass Effect 3 is probably one of the better games of this year, after dishonored, and one of my favorites too.

NoX81

Nov 30, 2012

8

This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. Too many harsh user reviews on here. True this game is let down by a lack of weight in the repercussions/benefits of decisions which do not carry over as was hoped from previous games, and the ending for me was a bit of a let down but overall its still a good game capturing the mass effect atmosphere with some darker undertones. The game lacks the vital end game that Mass effect 2 had and the player is never given enough control of the overall outcome which was something which was really felt in Mass Effect 2, decisions mattered. In Mass Effect 3 your given the illusion they matter until you find that they dont, they really should have, if they did, this would have been a great game. Simply it lets itself down by not following what made the first two great and found following one of the all time best games to tough an act to follow. Still enjoyable though and i hope there are further adventures to be had in the mass effect universe with bioware.… Expand

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

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

Tofusin

Feb 21, 2013

8

The end to a Legend. Mass effect 3, the conclusion to the story of Commander (insert first name here) Shepard. Been a hell of a ride, from Eden Prime to Omega, and everywhere in-between. Mass Effect 3 beings after the events of the Arrival DLC for Mass Effect 2. Cmdr. Shepard having been arrested, and facing trial,on Earth, is interrupted with the Reaper's invasion. And Shepard is givenThe end to a Legend. Mass effect 3, the conclusion to the story of Commander (insert first name here) Shepard. Been a hell of a ride, from Eden Prime to Omega, and everywhere in-between. Mass Effect 3 beings after the events of the Arrival DLC for Mass Effect 2. Cmdr. Shepard having been arrested, and facing trial,on Earth, is interrupted with the Reaper's invasion. And Shepard is given one final mission: Unite the Galaxy to combat them. No easy task, but years have been spent for this very moment. Shepard is faster and stronger now. With combat rolls, cover vaults and devastating melee attacks. He/She is joined by a smaller (But more vocal) squad. All previous squad-mates, main characters from previous games return. Though some are placed in corners, and given little screen-time. The weapon crafting system is a fun little addition, even if you won't be using it much. The mining mini-game is gone, (Hurray!) and planet scanning is simplified. The game leads through many emotional moments, some of anger and hate. Others of happiness, and joy. But the leading is pressure, desperation and tragedy. Keep tissues near you for this game. A work of art for 99% of the game...and you've heard it a million times. The ending, while improved with the "Extended Cut" free DLC, is still...unsatisfying. A game everyone should try once, but sadly will be remembered for its ending.… Expand

Scumbag_

Apr 27, 2013

8

All i see is: 'Bad ending, bad ending, waste of money, worst game ever' but no, it's not. Don't get me wrong, the ending was weak.
I am not the one that says that this one is better than ME2. It certainly isn't. but i had a lot of fun playing, And i do not think people should hate this series overall because of this lame ending. If you want to play this game, then first play ME1 and 2.

BremBird

May 11, 2013

8

You will enjoy the ride, right up till its finish the story is a master class in great writing and plot! well done Bioware. the ending is the fault of EA.

Good Multiplayer thats fun to player. A more mobile Shepard. And tons of free dlc!

electriclight41

Jun 3, 2013

8

My favorite entry in the series, though the I felt betrayed by the ending (as many were). It felt like all the time I spent with the previous two games and this one didn't matter. And the options left weren't satisfying.

That being said, everything else is more polished and smooth and fun than the first two games. It doesn't hold as much replay value for me as my friends, but it'sMy favorite entry in the series, though the I felt betrayed by the ending (as many were). It felt like all the time I spent with the previous two games and this one didn't matter. And the options left weren't satisfying.

That being said, everything else is more polished and smooth and fun than the first two games. It doesn't hold as much replay value for me as my friends, but it's definitely worth playing.… Expand

GamingSoldier

Jul 13, 2013

8

Ok i need to write this to contribute to raising the score to what Mass effect 3 deserves. does it deserve a full 10 no it does not but does it need TWOS AND ZEROS IT HAS BEEN GETTING? NO! I GET THE ORIGINAL ENDING WAS BAD BUT STOP PUNISHING THE WHOLE GAME FOR IT! Ok i'm calmed down again
pros: combat is improved and more fluid, the graphics are good and backgrounds are excellent withOk i need to write this to contribute to raising the score to what Mass effect 3 deserves. does it deserve a full 10 no it does not but does it need TWOS AND ZEROS IT HAS BEEN GETTING? NO! I GET THE ORIGINAL ENDING WAS BAD BUT STOP PUNISHING THE WHOLE GAME FOR IT! Ok i'm calmed down again
pros: combat is improved and more fluid, the graphics are good and backgrounds are excellent with reapers blasting ships into pieces in space and invading planets, arguments in the street you solve show how the reaper invasion and Cerberus have effected the galaxy, on the galaxy map reapers can attack you giving some life to the galaxy map, it added multiplayer, the return of all of your favorite characters with awesome moments thanks to grunt legion and mordin, extended cut fixes the ending all you people hating on the game because of it. the story is still interesting
cons: it added poorly done multiplayer, I admit it the original ending was dissapointing and there should not have even needed to be a 1.85 GB ending fix at all, the quest system no longer gives updated objectives or any help were to go for searching for war assets i need to use the wiki to know where to go for quests that were not considered important enough to be marked on the map, multiplayer micro transactions (it is EA) multiplayer online pass we all really "love" pay to play
so there you go i have given this game the justice it deserves. while the original ending is disappointing the game itself is amazing and i recommend it to all fans of previous games and even some other people. Now I ask you a question would you rather have a bad game with a great conclusive ending or a great game with a disappointing ending. the answer is quite obvious… Expand

Andremax

Nov 10, 2018

8

Mass Effect 3 shows itself a game with less careful than its both predecessors, whether for being a mere recicled most of Mass Effect 2's style. for having notable falling of frames on multicolored and multieffected moments, for having even more bugs, mixed with game's epilogue that doesn't gives same power of choice as on previously games. But for keeping immersive, holding, funny, withMass Effect 3 shows itself a game with less careful than its both predecessors, whether for being a mere recicled most of Mass Effect 2's style. for having notable falling of frames on multicolored and multieffected moments, for having even more bugs, mixed with game's epilogue that doesn't gives same power of choice as on previously games. But for keeping immersive, holding, funny, with the best saga's playability and with most of the story still good, makes which game doesn't need being perfect at all but satisfying or at minimum understandeable to ending the trilogy, and ME 3 does it.… Expand

Saqwana

Jul 23, 2014

8

i really like the game though i recognize its faults. my main complaint would the lack of different body types for Sheppard and the hands looking far older then they should with these characters. i also thin the should have been at least 12 companions in the game it would have added more variation. the lack of a solid sentinel can be an issue for some builds. the ending isn't great but ii really like the game though i recognize its faults. my main complaint would the lack of different body types for Sheppard and the hands looking far older then they should with these characters. i also thin the should have been at least 12 companions in the game it would have added more variation. the lack of a solid sentinel can be an issue for some builds. the ending isn't great but i was fine with it before the extended cut. i think the extended cut adds more context to the ending which is nice. so overall it was a good solid game but not a great one.… Expand

crusher351

Sep 4, 2018

8

To start off, I'm going to mention something that has been said a hundred times before; the ending was weak. For all of the effort and time that I (and many others) have put into this trilogy, the ending should and could have been 100% better. However, during my current play through of the game and its DLC's, I realized something; despite having a mediocre ending, this is one of theTo start off, I'm going to mention something that has been said a hundred times before; the ending was weak. For all of the effort and time that I (and many others) have put into this trilogy, the ending should and could have been 100% better. However, during my current play through of the game and its DLC's, I realized something; despite having a mediocre ending, this is one of the greatest experiences in gaming. I have to say that this game had a lot of good improvements over the last two. The ability to have a serious melee attack was nice as was the ability to jump over gaps. The amount of weapons to choose from was also a nice bonus, and the customization of said weapons just added to it. The combat is improved slightly over the last game, and feels smoother and faster. The characters are back and look better than ever. Honestly, this game still holds on a graphics front today. One of the features from the last game that I'm glad they got rid of is the scanning of planets for resources. Yes, you still have to scan, but you don't have to go to each planet one at a time. Instead you scan while flying the Normandy, and if something comes up, then you go to the planet and scan it. This, despite the ending, is one of the greatest stories of all time, and just proves how good Bioware used to be.… Expand

SuperkenGaming

May 25, 2021

8

Mass Effect 3 Legendary Edition
Go google pictures of Mirandas butt
Mass Effect 3 is the final chapter of Sheards story youre off to end the reapers, this race of beings that threaten the existence of the universe as you know it… I didn’t play the original version, but here in Mass Effect 3 you have the option to play RPG style or action style… as someone that played the last 2 games IMass Effect 3 Legendary Edition
Go google pictures of Mirandas butt
Mass Effect 3 is the final chapter of Sheards story
youre off to end the reapers, this race of beings that threaten the existence of the universe as you know it…
I didn’t play the original version, but here in Mass Effect 3 you have the option to play RPG style or action style… as someone that played the last 2 games I love the choice aspect of this series so I chose to mainline the story with the rpg elements here.. choosing my dialog.. unfortunately though the game doesn’t make it hard for you to just b line to the end in about 12 hours.
Why? Because this just ist the least interesting game in the trilogy.. it just is.. you already know which charcters you like in this universe.. and there aren’t really anymore to fall in love with before the big showfdown.. so I just didn’t care to do the side missions, especially with just how repetitive the main campaign felt.. why would i? I had no insentive to explore and go do more.. that being said mass Efect 3 is decently enjoyable to play through.. You will get more squadmembers as the story goes on, youll be picking out their special abilities, and they do become an important part of your arsenal.. for example Liara was a stple for me to deal with annoying shielded enemies, I loved how on command I could have her just throw any enmy in the eir right in front of me.. so it really is up to you to baance your squad of 3 to your play style.. I do wish however there was more information given to me before a mission s maybe I was more throughful about the 2nd member… if I ever had anyone different it was mostly because the tory forced it on me.. in general mass effect 3 does an awful job at pre gaming… you have to chose your loadout before you go in.. having no idea what youll be dealing with ahead of time.. it makes literally 0 sense for me to not change my loadout based on my current situation on the fly… it ultimately lead to me not relly trying out any guns after I had one I was pretty satisfied…
If mass Effect 3 werent the bow ontop of a series I had to see the end of after a huge investment into 1 and 2… I probably wouldn’t have been so invested to see it through.. it lies on the shoulders of the success of the perevious games and sadly doesn’t live up to the world building standards they set…
While I did enjoy going through this campaign and putting an end to this intergalactic war… by itself, mass effect 3 isnt all that great.
I give Mass Effect 3 Legendary Edition
a 7.5/10… Expand

Termin8ter

Jul 3, 2017

8

While Mass Effect 3 is a mostly well done game, and completes the long running trilogy in a mostly satisfying fashion, the nagging fact is that the absolutely terrible ending completely ruins the entire Mass Effect Trilogy in it's entirety, which is very sad, because this franchise deserves to be remembered, but this absolutely horrendous ending nearly, just nearly altered that. Aside fromWhile Mass Effect 3 is a mostly well done game, and completes the long running trilogy in a mostly satisfying fashion, the nagging fact is that the absolutely terrible ending completely ruins the entire Mass Effect Trilogy in it's entirety, which is very sad, because this franchise deserves to be remembered, but this absolutely horrendous ending nearly, just nearly altered that. Aside from that though, ME3 is a good enough game worth a playthrough.… Expand

Hitjhon

Jul 1, 2020

8

Now that I've seen all the controversy around the world with TLOU 2 I thought maybe I will review a game that I played a long time ago and was kind of divisive. The only issue with this game if my memory doesn't fail was the ending that's it. Unlike the other game. Well so I will say this: The trilogy as a whole is one of the best in gaming history yeah the ending could have been betterNow that I've seen all the controversy around the world with TLOU 2 I thought maybe I will review a game that I played a long time ago and was kind of divisive. The only issue with this game if my memory doesn't fail was the ending that's it. Unlike the other game. Well so I will say this: The trilogy as a whole is one of the best in gaming history yeah the ending could have been better and give better choices to the characters at the end but the game still was good and I think Bioware after this game started to walk his decline road and became the company we all know now. Yeah I played DA Inquisition it's not that great and then Andromeda and finally Anthem… Expand

RafaelBarrera

Nov 19, 2018

8

Mass Effect 3 is a villyfied game just because of one thing: its ending. I think it is a bit unfair to the game, the ending can't destroy the whole game experience even tho it was the close up to the whole saga ( which is why it is so hatred ). If we don't take into account the ending, this game is an improvement of what we saw in Mass Effect 2: combat system, space mining, graphics,Mass Effect 3 is a villyfied game just because of one thing: its ending. I think it is a bit unfair to the game, the ending can't destroy the whole game experience even tho it was the close up to the whole saga ( which is why it is so hatred ). If we don't take into account the ending, this game is an improvement of what we saw in Mass Effect 2: combat system, space mining, graphics, variety in weapons, etc... The game could perfectly be a 10/10 , but as I said: the ending is horrible. It's just so mad but at the same time appreciable because of the risk the developers took ( it went wrong, obviously ), maybe it was an original idea, maybe they didn't know how to finish the saga, anyway, it's a really good game with non deserved ending.
It still is a ''must game'' for me.… Expand

Kostas101

Nov 3, 2021

8

I honestly think this game is actually great, from the fantastic shooting mechanics, to the spectacular cutscenes, and the great characters. The ending is indeed quite rushed but it didn't ruin my experience, everything else in this game is definitely good.

Luccio26

Feb 3, 2020

8

This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. The Story 1.5/3
The final installment in the trilogy you are once again presented with a ludicrous task of stopping the reapers after losing your foothold on earth. There are plenty of meaningful decisions to make and the progression of the story is fluid and keeps you coming back mission after to mission. Checking your readiness as you rally various allies to your side. The inclusion of side missions that bring back old characters like Jack and Mordin were both thrilling and also tear jerking as this truly did become real as your progressed, this is the last game in the trilogy. Where the game falls down is its final hours of the campaign. It feels as though you fight so hard to get your character, your squad and the world you have built for the epic saga at its climax; to choose between the blue, red or green pill. Although the DLC gave you some extra bits to do here and there and some more meaningful dialogue you are still presented with a very anti-climatcitc ending compared to the previous 2 games. Especially as this is the grand finale to one of the best video game triologies ever made.
Gameplay 2.5/3
The clunkiness and the cover system which I felt made certain classes more overpowered in the previous games, were refined greatly in ME3. Whether you played an Infiltrator (sniper & tech class) or a biotic (spellcaster equivilent) or a guns blazing, there was plenty of meaningful progression and building your team around how you played never felt better in the series. I felt the crafting system could have used a little more work as a lot of the weapons you found in quests or bought from vendors were better than anything you could make. The moding system was ok, but felt redundant after you had achieved a certain level. The reaper system when entering a galaxy made space exploration tedious at times when just wanting to get to and from a quest objective to hand in. The talent progression allows you to explore a variety of builds so there is something for any kind of player
Visuals/Art Design 2/2
Once again the art team did a phenomenal job in creating various enemy types, great character and alien models, back drops, landscapes and cityscapes. Hard to fault them on anything here.
Sound/Music 2/2
Another tick to everyone involved here. Great voice acting, fantastic ambient sounds, eerie music that perfectly depicts the spooky space vibes. The weapons and biotic moves sound great as well. Once again doesn't break immersion by making you think that the sound design is its own character.

My final score is an 8/10. The game is not terrible. It doesn't deserve the sub 5 scores it gets on metacritic. Nor is it a 10/10 game. It is a must play experience if you have played the other two as although it may miss out on the epic ending. It does close a lot of story arks to characters that you have met in the other games.… Expand

KaleSungurCrane

Nov 20, 2020

8

OVERALL - 80%

Gameplay - 9/10
Graphics (for time) - 8/10
Story - 7/10
Game Length - 8/10
Characters - 8/10
Level/Area Design - 9/10
Atmosphere - 8/10
Sound Effects - 8/10
Soundtrack - 6/10
Replay Value - 6/10

Regardless of this games' downfalls explained multiple times in other User scores, I had a fun time playing this. Less clunky than previous instalments and crisp graphics.

EasyGamerBoi

Jun 10, 2021

8

The ending pissed me off at first, but after all these years I now feel satisfied after finishing the whole trilogy over & over again. It’s the Mass Effect trilogy, so of course it’s still gonna be a great game. The last 20 minutes doesn’t decide the other however many hours before it.

B00tador

Nov 28, 2021

8

Falls short in some regards but still a great game. As part of a trilogy it does enough for me.

Kostas_Spirou

Dec 29, 2021

8

I honestly think this game is actually great, the gameplay mechanics are exceptional, the different types of ammunition and weapons make the gameplay feel fresh and rewarding, without ruining the pacing.

Story-wise it does have some flaws but for most of the time it's pretty interesting, and it has some fantastic moments. Most characters are likeable and charming. Even though the gameI honestly think this game is actually great, the gameplay mechanics are exceptional, the different types of ammunition and weapons make the gameplay feel fresh and rewarding, without ruining the pacing.

Story-wise it does have some flaws but for most of the time it's pretty interesting, and it has some fantastic moments.

Most characters are likeable and charming. Even though the game lacks some RPG elements, like every other Mass Effect game the characters are the highlight of the game.

And about the infamous ending, it's indeed quite rushed, but it didn't ruin my experience, everything else in this game is very good and that's all that matters.

Final Rating: "Great" ~ 8/10.… Expand

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

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