Mass Effect 3

 Xbox 360
User Score
6.0

Mixed or average reviews- based on 3849 Ratings

User score distribution:
  1. Positive: 2,035 out of 3849
  2. Mixed: 461 out of 3849
  3. Negative: 1,353 out of 3849
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  1. rsimmo
    Mar 17, 2012
    9
    No previous video game series has previously affected me as much as the Mass Effect series. The first game set the series up and the second is my favourite ever game bringing the series forward with an epic storyline. This made the third in the series the most anticipated game ever for me and whilst playing through the story it duly delivered. The story sucks you in and keeps you asNo previous video game series has previously affected me as much as the Mass Effect series. The first game set the series up and the second is my favourite ever game bringing the series forward with an epic storyline. This made the third in the series the most anticipated game ever for me and whilst playing through the story it duly delivered. The story sucks you in and keeps you as enthralled if not more than the previous instalments and keeps you striving for more. However, as is mentioned all over the internet is the game's controversial end. I have to admit at first I was with the masses, angry and heartbroken that the series had done such a thing to me. However, is everything as it seems at the end? If looked at and analysed in detail the ending could be seen as incredibly clever and not just sloppy and with potential downloadable content maybe the story of mass effect is set to continue some more. The multiplayer is another new edition to the series and while it may be limited to the single mode of multiplayer it is addictive and keeps you wanting more. All in all the game is definitely one of the most memorable of all time and if rumours of an expanded ending are true it could go down as one of the best games of all time.… Expand
  2. Corvallis
    Mar 17, 2012
    10
    I'm just shocked that players hate the endings so much that they rate this game so low !!! I mean I'm a huge fan of the series, played the first 10 times, the second 22 times, read all the books well you see what I mean. The game is a blast : the cutscenes are way better than in the second lesser bugs, a gameplay that is more playable. Mass Effect 2 without its background and everythingI'm just shocked that players hate the endings so much that they rate this game so low !!! I mean I'm a huge fan of the series, played the first 10 times, the second 22 times, read all the books well you see what I mean. The game is a blast : the cutscenes are way better than in the second lesser bugs, a gameplay that is more playable. Mass Effect 2 without its background and everything would be a pretty **** TPS. Even the questlines are not so great I mean just going to a planet searching for a new squadmate then talk to him and he gives you a quest you do it and once you finished it you realize : well I destroyed the collectors and I fought them 3-4 times even if they are the main enemies ! The mercenaries seem to be the real ennemy in this game ! In the third well it's still not perfect less choices of missions and not many different ennemies, sure it feels it lacks something but I really enjoyed the game it is quite long (on Insanity maybe) 36h to finish everything so I think it is not short for TPS standards, we see old friends, we have a lot of weapons to choose, better armor parts than in the second, we can upgrade weapons without having to search for damn minerals in planet scannings that take hours from you don't get any satisfaction, the storyline is well driven to the end at least we understand what is happening except in the ending. I regret that the game is too action oriented sure but still the game is way better than many of the games we can see released today ! So I'm not getting too much in the details but I want to say that OK the endings are quite disappointing it is not what I expected at all for the ending but you can't think that this game is worse than DNF or less good than Modern Warfare 3 ! I don't want to troll but guys ! Realize what you're saying ! You have the right to be disappointed I totally agree with you guys but don't put a so low rating for this game just because of an ending ! I chose to rate it 10 just because some people think that because of a ending it deserves 1 or 0 ! I would put 8 or 9 I still prefer the second one but the third is a good game not a bad one at all and think that maybe a fourth game will justify the endings. Let's hope it is not a DLC. To conclude this : It is a really good game, worthy of being in the series but with an ending that is not as good than we could expect. Also the dialogues are too simple (two choices most of the time which is not much) and EA did not help to make the game better with **** as Online pass, Day One DLC, future DLC plans. The game could have used 1 more year of development because it ends a trilogy that many loved. So if the game was disappointing to you blame EA first they choose the release date and the time of work put into the game.… Expand
  3. 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
  4. 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
  5. Blocksss
    Mar 18, 2012
    10
    what is there to say after 3 very succesfull games Bioware closes the Mass effect trilogy, i only had 2 irritating points in the game.
    1: that all the alian races you had as shepperd in part 2 are gone...
    2: the multiplayer, i cant tell why but i play mass effect for the story,i think the multiplayer is just a sniffing extra and i hope the creators will know that real mass effect fans    what is there to say after 3 very succesfull games Bioware closes the Mass effect trilogy, i only had 2 irritating points in the game.
    1: that all the alian races you had as shepperd in part 2 are gone...
    2: the multiplayer, i cant tell why but i play mass effect for the story,i think the multiplayer is just a sniffing extra and i hope the creators will know that real mass effect fans rather buy more missions than multiplayer maps.
    but i dont think i need to be to negative Bioware has closed 1 of my favorite games, and i enjoyed every second of it.    … Expand
  6. reVICES
    Mar 19, 2012
    9
    Mass Effect 3, as a whole, lives up to the hype of what the ground breaking series has given us so far. The game improves upon its predecessor in almost every way, however it falls short on a few aspects that make this game not the perfect ten it could have been.

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

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

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

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

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

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

    Despite the controversy surrounding the endings, the day one downloadable content, the completely optional same-sex relationship possibilities, this game does deserve universal acclaim. If it wasn't for the few short comings, this would be strongest entry in an already very well done series.    … Expand
  7. warp10ck
    Mar 19, 2012
    4
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. The game that I was most excited for this year but unfortunately there is a lot of elements that ruins the experience, the game seems to be struggling with a identity crisis is it an rpg or a third person shooter with rpg elements ? The first problem with this game is for those who played the first two games and try to import their characters from the previous games at the time of writing this review an issue prevents the game from importing the appearance of your character every other things are imported like who you saved in me 1 and 2 these decisions have and impact depending on who you saved and some decisions you made earlier games have small impact.

    They seem to have focused more on combat and while the combat is fluid and have the gears of war cover system they seem to have forgotten some of the rpg elements. The quest system is really strange every main quest is tracked and easily managed but the secondary quests have no tracking and require you too search around blind, and if you complete one part of the objective you will have to return deliver and then search for the person/alien to deliver said item to.

    Customization is also limited the only armor you can take of your helmet is the N7 armor which is the default armor you begin with.

    Weapons are probably the the things that you can customize the most by upgrading barrels magazines etc etc.

    That being said most people play this for the story and it´s pretty good up to a certain point, you will reunite with many familiar faces that will help you against the reapers.
    Lot´s of great dialog that makes the characters that we all know and love come to life.

    But I can´t neglect to mention what everyone is talking about the endings.
    The game does an incredible job of moving story forward but in the last five minutes the story suddenly takes a strange turn and falls flat, there is not any real choice in the matter there are six endings almost identical. In these last few minutes the game introduces a character that was never in the game earlier and this character is well on his way now on becoming a meme on the web the Jar Jar of video games if you will.

    And the endings is so out of touch with the rest of the story in the game that it actually makes every choices you made in the earlier games seem irrelevant, this is the game biggest weakness and it destroys any replay value since I personally did not feel that I wanted play again because the ending was just too depressing. The plot simply stops making sense the last five minutes and this should not ruin the experience over what is a pretty good game, it should not but it does because it makes the entire journey seem pointless.
    The endings sequence basically tells you that none of your decisions really matter and you have to choose between option a, b or c and they are with minor differences almost identical endings with different colored explosions (reloaded and tried every option) and you just feel empty after the end which is to say the least not what I expected
    .
    It´s incredible how gutted I felt after that ending I had to take a break from gaming entirely and finally could start reviewing other games after a few days.

    And the sad thing is that 99,9% of this game is good the 0.1% really ruins what is over all a great experience.    … Expand
  8. ursa1979
    Mar 20, 2012
    10
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. I loved this game. For me the best part of the game was the care with which it dealt with the characters that you have grown to love over the course of the 3 games. Each character mission was great (some better than others), but it was the moment at the end where you had a chance to say goodbye to each that really shined. To me this was the true ending. Regarding the "actual" end that has been creating all of the hubbub, I personally that it was solid and interesting. The fact that despite all of your choices (paragon/renegade), which are deeply felt throughout the story, ultimately lead to the same final choice is an interesting take on the concept of destiny/fate. Furthermore, while the three results of the final choice were aesthetically similar (modified color palates), they were dramatically disparate in substance and result in wildly different universes.… Expand
  9. 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
  10. Boozerz
    Mar 20, 2012
    10
    I really enjoyed the game. The gripes about the ending have been blown way out of proportion. Throughout the entire single player campaign we get closure and resolution for many of the character/story arcs. The ending is a great hardcore sci-fi resolution. This trilogy will be remembered as one of the greats.
  11. cdog
    Mar 20, 2012
    9
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. This game is an absolutely fantastic experience and great achievement in sci-fi gaming, or at least the first 99% is. The endings are not as bad as most people say, but they are disappointing and are not fulfilling, and really do not give enough closure. There is little difference between any of them, however I do not think it is fair to say your decisions do not matter. Your decisions give war assets, which affect whether or not earth survives. Apart from the disappointing endings, this is the best game in the series. The characters feel more alive and are more fleshed out, the writing (endings excluded) is up there with the quality shown in Mass Effect 1, the gunplay is better then ever, and the universe as a whole is as great as in all the other titles. There are some stunning moments, and also some very emotional moments-a lot of work has been put into creating this epic experience, and there are some very difficult choices along the way. There is no way such a great game deserves 0/10, endings or not, this game is great.

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

    All in all, these are fairly minor things. This game is brilliant. The only reason I am not giving 10'/10 are the disappointing endings, which is a shame, because this series, and this game, are so good that they really deserve better. If the endings were corrected, this would get the score it deserves.    … Expand
  12. freshtoothpaste
    Mar 20, 2012
    3
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. I was a huge fan of the series; it was and is a fun, largely open, mostly RPG game that let you watch characters evolve in a galactic landscape over several fun, exploratory adventures. For me at least, part of the fun was the replayability. As you made different decisions, the ending of the game subtly changed; mostly to the point of how easy or difficult the ending was.

    This game, though, failed to meet the hype associated with it. Mass Effect 2 set up the promise of Mass Effect 3. In ME2, the characters that survived (both main party and secondary) had everything to do with the amount of effort you put into the game. That sets up the promise of ME3, to do the same but on a larger scale. Unfortunately, by the time you get to the end, you end up with a game that's closer to the linear Mass Effect 1 ending. Your decisions, in the last ten minutes, don't really have much effect on the outcome. Even the animations for the ending are identical (except for the color). Now, this wouldn't be a big deal, except that the promise/premise of the entire series has been creating your own moment at the end. Having said all that, though, the ending itself (even having similar ones) isn't that big of a deal. What is a big deal are all the strange inconsistencies in the last part of the game. Squad members who die (or were implied to die) suddenly reappear. Your ship, engaged in battle one moment, is suddenly running from a destructive beam that strands it on a strange planet. The lead character suddenly loses their will to argue, without making note of it, in the last few minutes. I was willing to forgive the glitches in the game. The unfinished, sometimes reused sprites. The overuse of stock photos. The lack of depth in the game. The problems with importing custom lead characters; if you had a custom face for the character, it will likely break when you try to import it.

    I think this game is made mostly for people looking not for an epic RPG, but maybe more of a simple version of Halo style space combat. If that's what you want, just to shoot things in space, then this is probably a good title. You can ignore the story, play multiplayer, and marvel at the backgrounds.

    If, however, you're looking for a satisfying story-based RPG, then this game isn't it. Not really.

    Which leaves me, a former fan, feeling kind of, "meh," about the whole experience. That's probably on purpose; EA loves third person shooters. They're much easier to develop and work on than expansive, multi title RPGs, I'd wager.

    SPOILER - look for yourself. The animations are the same
    http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rPelM2hwhJA    … Expand
  13. joshiasi
    Mar 20, 2012
    1
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. For those who thinks the endings make sense are either high or being paid by EA/Bioware to thinking that the ending makes sense. I for one experience such a confusing ending for example on my final push to the port to the Citadel, I had Ashley and Garrus with me then in the ending CGI, Ashley shows up in a planet that the Normandy crashed in without getting scratched by Harbringer's beam. What kind of bad writing is that?

    Such a shame for such a great franchise. The ending just negates all what was good in Mass Effect 3. The ending felt like it was rushed to make deadlines as it did not follow what Mass Effect is all about. The game is about choices you make affecting the outcome. No matter what the choices you make in-game and in the previous installments did not matter at all. Its the same ending with 5% variation.    … Expand
  14. WeenieHutJrs
    Mar 21, 2012
    10
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. Ok Mass Effect one of the best game franchises of all time delivered another outstanding game. Minus the less than stellar ending that we all wanted it, the game was fantastic. The action set pieces had me jumping out of my seat. (i.e. the part on Rannoch when you go head to head with a reaper) The story was always engaging and I never skipped a conversation. The multiplayer is fun for what it is but Mass Effect is all about single player. There were a few bugs like pauses between talking with people and enemies stuck in the ground. The overall experience is great and i hope this gets several GOTY awards.… Expand
  15. 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
  16. 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
  17. Segameister
    Mar 28, 2012
    6
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. First off, I'm definitely a Fanboy of Mass Effect - FOR NOW. I'm desperately holding out hope that the ending changes or at least gives a decent option that is truer to Shepard's character and the series, as that will be the ONLY WAY that Bioware gets more of my $$ in the future. It completely fails on both fronts. I'm still replaying the game and really enjoying the multiplayer, but that ending really damages the series. Outside of the ending. The graphics and cutscenes on the Xbox look fantast and run very smoothly. The (shooter) gameplay is the best of the series, and while I like that the mining from ME2 was replaced with scanning in ME3, too many of the extra missions can be resolved by simply scanning the systems and avoiding reapers. In the end it shortens gameplay and is too cookie cutter. Up until the last scene and the 'vanilla' ending options, even the story was true to what the other games in the series offered for depth, although the Edi / Jeff thing felt rushed (better writing needed there), the rest of the game is geat storywise. Downside: the ending of a trilogy of this caliber is an abomination to the concept of writing. Don't let Bioware defense fool you, this ending is not 'artistic'. Artistic license should not be used as an excuse for making such a terrible ending.

    Overall though, this game doesn't rate a 1 or 2 / 10. The strengths put it up to a 6. I wouldn't recommend rushing out and buying it just yet if you were waiting. Let the price go down first.    … Expand
  18. Deez123
    Mar 28, 2012
    5
    I feel this game on a whole was a letdown. Like most others reviewing this game i've Played mass effect 1&2 several times over and 3 does not come close to matching either experience. The side quest are a joke, the vast majority of them being stupid fetch quests. The only Place to buy/explore/talk to people is the citadel and even that seems poorly done. It just seems incomplete, likeI feel this game on a whole was a letdown. Like most others reviewing this game i've Played mass effect 1&2 several times over and 3 does not come close to matching either experience. The side quest are a joke, the vast majority of them being stupid fetch quests. The only Place to buy/explore/talk to people is the citadel and even that seems poorly done. It just seems incomplete, like chunks of story and quests were taken out of it - bet there will be a TON of DLC for this game. It IS a decent game but nowhere near the level of 1&2. The ending sucked at first for me but after reading some of the theories out there if seems kinda cool. I just can't shake the feeling that this game was mutilated and several important parts of it will be sold as DLC because it's a cash cow. Total, complete, letdown of a game.… Expand
  19. traveler
    Mar 29, 2012
    1
    Let me preface this by saying that I was a long time fan of the series and of Bioware games in general; I played both ME1 and ME2 dozens of times over the years (no exaggeration!), and KOTOR until my eyes bled (ok, slight exaggeration; but not by much). So it really does pain me to give this game such a low score.

    The short of it is: the game is rushed and incomplete. Corners were    Let me preface this by saying that I was a long time fan of the series and of Bioware games in general; I played both ME1 and ME2 dozens of times over the years (no exaggeration!), and KOTOR until my eyes bled (ok, slight exaggeration; but not by much). So it really does pain me to give this game such a low score.

    The short of it is: the game is rushed and incomplete. Corners were obviously cut all about, and it shows. Most notably in the classical RPG elements of story and exploration.

    The long of it: in ME3 what you see is that Bioware/EA are quite obviously trying to appeal to the massive consumer base that loves shooter games. Great (and in a sense so was ME1). But the results are that a great deal of time seemed to have been spent copying shooter elements from other games, in an effort to create a fairly mediocre corridor shooter experience, with wonky controls. The glaring thing is what is gone with all this effort. Exploration. Astounding that a game that markets itself as as RPG has so little of it. There are limited hubs, much smaller than those in the previous installments, that provide little interaction for engaging with the world. NPC interaction is either highly scripted, as in, no the player doesn't choose what to say; or it just is a matter of eavesdropping on two people talking in order to get a quest that actually doesn't contain any gaming elements other than go here on the map and press a button. Old RPG standards like equipment and journal logs are streamlined to the point of being non-existent (the journal in particular is totally inept and incomplete; it doesn't update or provide you useful information on the quests - a real step down from the previous games).

    Why? Well, because the game appears to be trying to force you into a linear narrative. In other words, the whole 'choose your own adventure' motif of the brand has taken a backseat for brief corridor shooting experiences punctuated by lengthy cut scenes with limited interaction. Think Gears of War, only worse (and that is saying something!). The plan to do this is so blatant that the game actually has options to switch it from an RPG to a straight story-shooter, right there on its opening screen.

    What is most glaring in this rushed and incomplete experience is the real drop in story telling. Now it is no secret that Bioware was purchased by EA, and that some fans were concerned about how that would effect the culture of the company. But it also is no secret that the people writing this game are not the same ones who wrote the first. And it shows. Lore is forgotten, conversations seem forced, character development can be childish, etc. Its like they inherited a world to write and imagine in that they either didn't understand, or didn't care about. I'm not sure which is worse.

    And don't get me started on that ending....

    OK, DO get me started on that ending. It's here that the evidence of how quickly and with such little care the game was cobbled together is most glaring. Some people have complained that the ending lacks choice (true), and closure (also true), or is confusing (not so much; somebody apparently copied Deus Ex). But the most repugnant aspects of the ending are just how lazy it is. Reused cut scenes, short, simplified conversation options. The whole thing smacks of 'rush it out the door, we have a deadline!' And back to the writers not being the same crop or the same caliber, the ending also doesn't seem to be connected with the rest of the series either in ideas or themes. You remember 'dark energy'? You know, the raison d'etre for Tali's presence on Haestrom, as well as mentioned at other parts of ME2 (like Illium). There was this whole big setup for 'dark energy' throughout ME2, it was foreshadowed as being of some galactic importance. And in ME3. Nada. Nothing. Zilch. The storyline was just abandoned and forgotten. Oops. No dark energy concerns here. This smacks of just lazy writing, and inept plotting.

    (Rumor has it that this was originally to be a part of the buildup for the conclusion - a connection between the middle act of the trilogy and its finale. But was abandoned for.... who knows. Instead you get a series of rushed deus ex machina developments. And then, over.)

    It pains me as a longtime fan and customer of bioware to see how little regard they have for quality here. That was the brand really, immersive RPGs with engaging, high adventure stories. That apparently is not the brand anymore. I don't know what is.

    Finally, I think I should point out the discrepancy between the 'professional critics' and 'user reviews' here and elsewhere. This is amazing. The reasons for the discrepancy are unclear, but I think the ramifications are going to be long reaching. The central question (for me at least) is one of trust: Is there any spirit of consumer protection left in software review or is it just caveat emptor, and have a nice day?    … Expand
  20. Darkleliel
    Mar 30, 2012
    10
    I thoroughly enjoyed this game and thought it was an amazing conclusion to an amazing series. I couldn't help but feel how I was an active part of each and every step, and because of it it made every aspect of the game that much more enjoyable.
  21. IAmRasputin
    Mar 30, 2012
    10
    Absolute perfection. Until the last 5 minutes, this game surpasses everything that its predecessors were, and then some. The ending is a downer (and not in a good way), but that doesn't tke away from the appeal of the game or the series.

    10/10, would bang.
  22. guammybear07
    Mar 31, 2012
    10
    Here is a re-post from the site, http://jmstevenson.wordpress.com/2012/03/22/all-that-matters-is-the-ending-part-2-mass-effect-3/, of what I think was the most glaring problem with the ending. He provides an excellent analogy without actually spoiling the ending.
    Imagine Frodo, dangling the One Ring, over the fiery chasm of Mt. Doom. He turns, and says,
  23. shaun8pickles
    Jun 14, 2013
    10
    I LOVED this game, and I LOVE this series, and it so sad that people on here writing reviews (most of them writing their first review?) are still complaining about the ending. I have played through this series 3 times. I have had a fair share of hours in this series. It's not fair to review its game on %1 of it package. Mass Effect 3 has everything, the lip syncing in this game is amazing,I LOVED this game, and I LOVE this series, and it so sad that people on here writing reviews (most of them writing their first review?) are still complaining about the ending. I have played through this series 3 times. I have had a fair share of hours in this series. It's not fair to review its game on %1 of it package. Mass Effect 3 has everything, the lip syncing in this game is amazing, the gun-play is awesome, the monsters are better than ever, and the soundtrack is memorizing. I am and always will be a fan of this series. And its sad to see "so called fans" review this game on just its ending, they really did everything they can to fix it. The Extended Cut DLC was great, and real fans wouldn't ditch a game just because of one thing. Seriously, this game has it all for space fans. I seriously recommend going and picking up the trilogy for those who haven't played all three or are new comers.… Expand
  24. Jayosh
    Apr 12, 2012
    6
    Mass Effect has been an extremely amazing series, and Bioware hyped this game as the extremely exciting climax to the series. I think they deliver to a certain degree. I want to praise the actual combat in this game and even though people are whining about the lack of RPG elements I do think it's still a very fun system. It also does a really good task at dealing with a lot of theMass Effect has been an extremely amazing series, and Bioware hyped this game as the extremely exciting climax to the series. I think they deliver to a certain degree. I want to praise the actual combat in this game and even though people are whining about the lack of RPG elements I do think it's still a very fun system. It also does a really good task at dealing with a lot of the perpetual issues presented in both 1 and 2 (Krogan genophage, Geth quarian relationship, etc.). I would want to get the game after reading what I said its just, so half finished. No clue how Bioware put so little work into this game and still took so long. There are some GREAT story missions, very exciting. It's just everything else is so rushed. This game fails to appease the newcomers of the series and even the veterans who love this series with a burning passion. Interested in this game? Play Mass Effect 1 & 2 they are great games. I would recommend this game but be aware of what EA did to destroy one of my favorite franchises.… Expand
  25. viegasn
    Apr 13, 2012
    9
    This is a great series, unfortunately this final chapter lays much to lose in two crucial moments, the beginning and end of the game. Since the beginning in my opinion the worst moment of the game, and the end is extremely short, not correctly explain the many existing questions, and the player's previous choices are irrevelantes.
    Continues to be a fantastic game, enriched by multiplayer,    This is a great series, unfortunately this final chapter lays much to lose in two crucial moments, the beginning and end of the game. Since the beginning in my opinion the worst moment of the game, and the end is extremely short, not correctly explain the many existing questions, and the player's previous choices are irrevelantes.
    Continues to be a fantastic game, enriched by multiplayer, but they put too much to lose the final common poorly done.    … Expand
  26. sup3lolzx
    Apr 18, 2012
    9
    BEST GAME EVER until the end... Mass Effect 3 i the best si-fi story out there. its so inmersive the characters, the universe, your Shepard, you care and love evry thing and evry one. it haves about 20-28 hours of gameplay if you take your time, if you just play the main missions is about 10-13 hours.
    the gameplay is the best of the series and the cinematics and voice actiing is the best    BEST GAME EVER until the end... Mass Effect 3 i the best si-fi story out there. its so inmersive the characters, the universe, your Shepard, you care and love evry thing and evry one. it haves about 20-28 hours of gameplay if you take your time, if you just play the main missions is about 10-13 hours.
    the gameplay is the best of the series and the cinematics and voice actiing is the best there is.
    Down side
    You have much lees squad members than in ME2 and one of them is a day ONE dlc
    The ending
    OK the ending is full of plotholes, imagine if The Lord Of The Rings would have ended when frodo was about to destroy the ring. and thats it it dosent tell you WTF happend to you, your friends your romance(if you have one), you flet... NOTHING and its EAs fault, the made the game end in a cliffhanger so you buy the next DLC or game is BS i can take the lack of squadmates since when you interact with your squadmates its more intresting than in ME1 or 2 but that ending makes you not want to play the game agin... i went on a FULL ON RAGE QUIT deleted my first save started a new one and not going to finish it agin until the extended cut DLC and hope that the next gamplay DLC it isint pre-end DLC like ME1
    HOLD THE LINE ask for a well explaind ending with no plot holes and pos-ending DLC and more gameplay like in ME2 where you can keep playing after finishing the game. my hope is still up dont give the game a bad score just becuse of the last 10 minutes, they can still fix it , its not like if the problem was gameplay or the whole story its JUST THE LAST 10 MINUTES THAT WE WANT FIXED Bioware
    Have a nice day, and play Multiplayer witch is GREAT until the Extended cut comes out and see whats nex for Our Commander Shepard    … Expand
  27. NATED066
    Apr 21, 2012
    5
    I'm giving this game a 5 out of 10. For context, my review for both Mass Effect 1 and Mass Effect is 9.5 out of 10. Storyline aside, my rationale for giving the low score is due to the fact that they have changed an important game mechanic... the ability to holster your weapon during breaks in combat. This is something that was available in ME1 and ME2, and the lack of it in ME3 seriouslyI'm giving this game a 5 out of 10. For context, my review for both Mass Effect 1 and Mass Effect is 9.5 out of 10. Storyline aside, my rationale for giving the low score is due to the fact that they have changed an important game mechanic... the ability to holster your weapon during breaks in combat. This is something that was available in ME1 and ME2, and the lack of it in ME3 seriously breaks the flow and makes the game less enjoyable. In the previous installments you would have a battle, then holster you gun and explore, then if more baddies cropped up, you would draw your gun again. This is much more realistic than ALWAYS having your gun drawn. Fighting bad guys? Gun drawn. No bad guys around? Gun drawn. Exploring crates? Gun drawn. Talking to teammates? Gun drawn. No one else on your team has their gun drawn? Gun drawn. It is a HUGE flaw in an otherwise good game, and I am shocked that Bioware removed it. Whoever decided that removing the ability to holster was a good idea should be fired.… Expand
  28. Mattyice
    Jun 10, 2012
    7
    This is a very fine third person shooter. great graphics, fine gameplay, but very poor use of kinect, no great multiplayer. Buy with major caution..
  29. shoewee
    May 3, 2012
    10
    This is really a great game. I was amazed at how well done the game is and I love the gameplay! Highly highly recommended! Go out and get this game today!
  30. Naapuri
    May 6, 2012
    10
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. An awesome game! The strange "flaws" in the ending must mean there is more to this story coming on. It is a shame that the choices you made during the trilogy didnt count in the ending but whatever, i loved the feeling of making choices. After all this was one of the best gaming experiences i have had… Expand
  31. SCHMOOPITIZE
    May 13, 2012
    9
    This game is ginormous, so rating it poorly based over the last twenty minutes is kind of...pointless. In truth, the beginning of the game is fantastic, straight into the action, the middle classic Mass Effect with a more action-y twist on combat. The game-play is smooth and responsive and so far, it's the only time i ever used my Kinect. I found myself actually BEING commander shepherdThis game is ginormous, so rating it poorly based over the last twenty minutes is kind of...pointless. In truth, the beginning of the game is fantastic, straight into the action, the middle classic Mass Effect with a more action-y twist on combat. The game-play is smooth and responsive and so far, it's the only time i ever used my Kinect. I found myself actually BEING commander shepherd when i talked FOR HIM! The multi-player while unneeded doesn't feel tacked on. Which is a good thing as too many games try that these days. However, i'm worried about a multi-player focused DLC situation. SUMMARY- Story is overall superb, it's beautiful, a multi-player worth talking about and shouting commands to squad mates is insanely fun!… Expand
  32. micahbyrd
    May 14, 2012
    10
    All I am going to say is that I have played every minute of available content that BIoware has made for this entire series, like many others. I feel robbed by the ending, true, but more importantly, this is quite simply the most amazing gaming experience I can think of. Period. If people want to hate on the ending that is their choice, but that doesn't change the fact that this game is theAll I am going to say is that I have played every minute of available content that BIoware has made for this entire series, like many others. I feel robbed by the ending, true, but more importantly, this is quite simply the most amazing gaming experience I can think of. Period. If people want to hate on the ending that is their choice, but that doesn't change the fact that this game is the perfect cap to over 100 hours of game play. Simply astounding!… Expand
  33. Valiant4Funk
    May 15, 2012
    9
    If you can get past all the controversy about the ending, it's a really fun game! After two previous games, the developers really got this game right. Not too complex, but plenty of customization and choice. Really fun combat. And a story that is mostly great!
  34. Chapperz
    May 15, 2012
    0
    Pure garbage, i adored the first game hell i even liked the MAKO the idea of exploring foreign planets in a jumping buggy was an amazing prospect however im going off topic. The series started going downhill with the second game which did improve massively in terms of combat but failed so much on the story front and the grand finale was an utter disappointment full of plot holes crummyPure garbage, i adored the first game hell i even liked the MAKO the idea of exploring foreign planets in a jumping buggy was an amazing prospect however im going off topic. The series started going downhill with the second game which did improve massively in terms of combat but failed so much on the story front and the grand finale was an utter disappointment full of plot holes crummy voice acting and butch women bioware have gone along way downhill since the days of ME1 and the original Dragon age...rip… Expand
  35. lilrizky
    May 15, 2012
    10
    Say what you want, but this game is truly a work of art and an experience that has never before seen in gaming. The lore was well implemented, the action was so much better. The only complaint i had that ME2 did better was the actual side-missions and loyalty missions were much more interesting and versatile. Other than that, the game combined the best of its two predecessors and throughSay what you want, but this game is truly a work of art and an experience that has never before seen in gaming. The lore was well implemented, the action was so much better. The only complaint i had that ME2 did better was the actual side-missions and loyalty missions were much more interesting and versatile. Other than that, the game combined the best of its two predecessors and through importing my character from ME1, i have never felt a sense of accomplishment, adventure, pride and triumph. Well done bioware, i would watch this on a big screen over Star Trek and Star Wars any day.… Expand
  36. Giarc1982
    May 16, 2012
    10
    Excellent game full of depth, faithfully remembers choices made in Mass Effect 1 & 2 making each playthough a new experience. Choices made in this and past games colour the game but make no mistake about it, this is Shepards story, one way or another s/he will stop the Reapers
    Depth is represented more in this game by the way it reflect legacy choices, One example is that one run through    Excellent game full of depth, faithfully remembers choices made in Mass Effect 1 & 2 making each playthough a new experience. Choices made in this and past games colour the game but make no mistake about it, this is Shepards story, one way or another s/he will stop the Reapers
    Depth is represented more in this game by the way it reflect legacy choices, One example is that one run through may be involve Mordin and Wrex yet on a different import Evolutionist Salarian Wiks and Wreave Wrex's half brother.
    Multiplayer is fun addition although it not essential to play it for the single player campain, general wave based attack awarded weapon packs as rewards. As for the ending I think most of the controversy is due to "fans" over reacting to an ending that sets the mass effect universe up for subsequent adventures, how the Extended Cut changes this will be intresting.    … Expand
  37. lumzi23
    Mar 3, 2014
    9
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. First of all, let me say that Mass Effect fans are among the worst in gaming. Not all, but the sheer number of entitled malcontents that are part of the fan base is surprising.

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

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

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

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

    It has some flaws.

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

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

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

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

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

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

    If you've not played 1 and 2 then by all means buy them, as they give context to this game, but it does work on it's own. The Mass Effect franchise has eaten up a very enjoyable 200+ hours of my life.    … Expand
  41. GooBear
    May 23, 2012
    7
    Not the best of the Mass Effect series but it definitely doesn't deserve anything under a 5/10. Anything rated below are reviews based on bias opinion and nothing more. The gameplay has changed since the 1st two installments. AI and shooting mechanics have been largely improved but to the disappointment to most fans of the 1st game, the gameplay has evolved into more a shooter than RPGNot the best of the Mass Effect series but it definitely doesn't deserve anything under a 5/10. Anything rated below are reviews based on bias opinion and nothing more. The gameplay has changed since the 1st two installments. AI and shooting mechanics have been largely improved but to the disappointment to most fans of the 1st game, the gameplay has evolved into more a shooter than RPG style. Skill building has actually improved from ME2 as now there are a lot more ways to evolve your squads abilities. In my personal opinion I enjoyed the story and I don't need to debate why. It seems like it's always a question of why I don't hate it. Your choices from the previous games are reflected all throughout the game but some choices within ME3's story aren't reflected where they should be. Now, to criticize on the actual flaws of ME3 (*note: these are mostly opinion). My #1 issue w/ it is the absence of Jack Wall. Suicide Mission/ The End Run was the best composition within a video game and was at least half of the epic-ness of ME2's ending. I know he chose to leave BioWare for other projects but still: Why work w/ the 1st 2 games then bail. Also, Clint Mansell's "Leaving Earth" is a complete rip-off of John Murphy's compositions from the main theme of the movie "Sunshine". It's even in my opinion that the Observation Room aboard the Normandy was practically ripped straight from this movie. Second: Ashley's appearance. She went from a "girl you'd bring home to mama" to a "don't tell my boyfriend" kinda girl. It kinda reminds me of young pop-stars who debut as a sweet innocent teen then turn to a raunchy sleaze as soon as they hit 18. The only other thing wrong w/ this game is some slight continuity issues w/ "some" decisions made in previous games and so-called plot holes discovered from over-analysis but they aren't enough of an issue to lose faith in this game or the development team behind it.… Expand
  42. Daedulos
    May 22, 2012
    9
    i have to say that i really did enjoy the demo when it first came out, and i really loved it when i got my hands on the limited edition of the game. the game play was solid, voice acting was perfect, graphics were tight, and the story just flowed with the series. im not saying that did not have any flaws though (which every game does have by the way), but i did feel that i didnt get thei have to say that i really did enjoy the demo when it first came out, and i really loved it when i got my hands on the limited edition of the game. the game play was solid, voice acting was perfect, graphics were tight, and the story just flowed with the series. im not saying that did not have any flaws though (which every game does have by the way), but i did feel that i didnt get the choices i really wanted at the end of it, and i would have prefered that the campaign's success did not rely on the multiplayer, which was good enough as it is, but all and all i couldnt help but fall in love with the game again, i only hope more people get to experience it too.… Expand
  43. Phategod1
    May 26, 2012
    9
    I know this is supposed to a review but in all honestly I must express my dissatisfaction and disgust with these cretins who consider themselves fans. They do not deserve a game with the quality of Mass Effect. All these 7and below rating are disingenuous and knee jerk reactions to not getting what they wanted.
  44. Teelo
    May 28, 2012
    3
    A good game until the last 5 minutes. The controls are ok but still bugged at cover. Seeing most of the character from the previous game is very cool. But it will be the only mass effect game I don't want to re play: the end is to crappy. The day one DLC is also a slap in the face. As the fact that playing coop as an impact on the solo game (when i play mass effect, i play a solo game!)
  45. braddogg623
    May 31, 2012
    9
    The ending . . . ugh. If you're checking Metacritic, you know the flaws of the ending of Mass Effect 3. It's a crime. But, the journey to the ending is tremendous, and the people giving a low rating to ME3 tend to focus on the last 10 minutes rather than the first 30 hours of the game. ME3 hits the balance between action and RPG: ME1 was nuts-and-bolts RPG (modding your guns took hoursThe ending . . . ugh. If you're checking Metacritic, you know the flaws of the ending of Mass Effect 3. It's a crime. But, the journey to the ending is tremendous, and the people giving a low rating to ME3 tend to focus on the last 10 minutes rather than the first 30 hours of the game. ME3 hits the balance between action and RPG: ME1 was nuts-and-bolts RPG (modding your guns took hours in total if you wanted to make a difference in gun performance), ME2 was very action-oriented (simplistic leveling system, minimal weapon upgrading, though the side quests mechanics of crew loyalty hinted at RPG roots). In ME3, you have the opportunity to really create a character with the combat strengths and weaknesses you desire. The shooter mechanics in ME3 were also very good. Despite some trouble grasping the cover system early on, I was able to complete the game on Insanity (high-level adept class imported from ME1 & ME2) without much difficulty, but with a lot of patience. The game featured more cut-scenes than I was accustomed to seeing in a Mass Effect game, which was disappointing, but the cut-scenes were good graphically and fit the general expectation I had of my Shepard. In short, ME3 is a good blending of ME1's RPG focus and ME2's action focus. I hated the ending, but I still give this game a 9/10. Especially if you played ME1 and ME2, you'll love ME3 except for the last 15 minutes. Stay tuned for free DLC to fix that ending, too.… Expand
  46. BARONvonVOLTAGE
    Jun 5, 2012
    10
    the mass effect trilogy comes to an end, sadly. this game is much improved on the first two, controls are easier, the game is fluid and not glitchy, the story ebbs and flows as fast or slow as you like. the multiplayer is a welcome addition, if a little shortlived (more on the way). the only thing that really let this down was the quite terrible ending. after playing as shepherd for maybethe mass effect trilogy comes to an end, sadly. this game is much improved on the first two, controls are easier, the game is fluid and not glitchy, the story ebbs and flows as fast or slow as you like. the multiplayer is a welcome addition, if a little shortlived (more on the way). the only thing that really let this down was the quite terrible ending. after playing as shepherd for maybe 60-70 hours over the three games i really expected a clearer more defined ending.… Expand
  47. DETHREAPER
    Jun 10, 2012
    10
    The most brilliant game to be made yet. The story lived up to, and even set the bar higher for what a science fiction story could do. The perfect mix of philosophy, analytical thought, and emotion present created something no other story has been able to achieve, and that is perfection. To be fair, video games aren't just about story, no matter the level of brilliance, but gameplay also.The most brilliant game to be made yet. The story lived up to, and even set the bar higher for what a science fiction story could do. The perfect mix of philosophy, analytical thought, and emotion present created something no other story has been able to achieve, and that is perfection. To be fair, video games aren't just about story, no matter the level of brilliance, but gameplay also. That being said, Mass Effect 3 is a paradigm of an RPG shooter, which again, set the bar higher for others. On another note, I was a bit leery about the soundtrack when I heard that Jack Wall was leaving, but as soon as I heard what Clint Mansell had to present, my fears were assuaged; as usual, he has masterfully orchestrated pieces that contribute to mood and emotion, while sticking to the roots of the series' sound. With Mass Effect 3, there is literally nothing I can think of that could be improved or changed, as perfection cannot be improved upon any further.… Expand
  48. Candidustigris
    Jul 31, 2012
    10
    I just beat the game with the improved endings. While they still don't satisfy me completely, it is a massive improvement from the original endings. This game is amazing, and with the addition of the new endings, its quality has improved dramatically for me.
  49. Orcson1
    Jun 27, 2012
    9
    Mass Effect 3 was a triumph.... Until the final 5 minutes. But now, even those 5 minutes are a triumph. With the new FREE Extended Cut DLC, Bioware has improved the endings greatly and brought this game to full and utter greatness. The writing is phenomenal, the voice work is amazing, and gameplay is fun and easy to use. The graphics are a little outdated, but that doesn't matter, becauseMass Effect 3 was a triumph.... Until the final 5 minutes. But now, even those 5 minutes are a triumph. With the new FREE Extended Cut DLC, Bioware has improved the endings greatly and brought this game to full and utter greatness. The writing is phenomenal, the voice work is amazing, and gameplay is fun and easy to use. The graphics are a little outdated, but that doesn't matter, because everything else shines. Mass Effect 3 was one of the greatest gaming experiences I have ever had the pleasure of playing through, and I'd highly recommend it to anyone.… Expand
  50. Chaoswind
    Jun 28, 2012
    8
    The EC changed this game from a mere 6 out of 10 to 8/10.

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

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

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

    Overall, way better then the 5.1 average rating on metacritic.    … Expand
  52. Scourge626
    Jun 30, 2012
    7
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. Just saying, the first part of this review will be me ranting about the end. I will no go into great detail, but seeing as how this is a review and reviews for games do entail the development for stories and the ending is, unfortunately, part of a story, I will have to talk about it. So you can skip that or take enjoyment in my displeasure for that god awful ending. Even with the extended ending, the ending for Mass Effect 3 is still crap. Albeit, the ending doesn't smell as bad as the first one, but crap is still crap. This game has not been redeemed. It does not matter how well they explain the ending; the way Mass Effect decided to take the Syfy Channel movie route and give the most asinine plot twist in gaming history has ruined the entire series for me. Even with their little PowerPoint Slideshow ending showing just how good life is regardless if you were a Paragon who went through pains to keep everyone alive or a Renegade who could care less who died as long as you got what you wanted. And the Synthesis ending is just too perfect of an ending. All the endings are devoid of any major consequences, there is little to no emotion for them, it does not show all of the effects of your decisions, focuses too much on the results of the three major endings, and has no epilogue for the characters in the third game. Just choosing any of those endings were a problem for me because they went against everything I and my Shepard stood for and stomped on all of the themes that the game developed over the course of three games. The only good ending was the Refusal ending and I still didn't like that one. I have no problem dying for what I believe in, but it's hard to enjoy an ending where everyone dies for your beliefs as well. I'm pretty sure plenty of people are going to say: "You can't have your cake and eat it too", and to that I say: It's my damn cake, I'll eat it if I want to! The endings do explain some things but does a mediocre job of it and adds even more plot holes to the unanswered ones from the original endings. And I am just not feeling the closure that many others are claiming to feel. If anything, I just felt like I wasted $180+ and only god knows how many hours for and ending that I could have read in a crappy fan-fiction. Actually, that's exactly what I did. And the worst part is, there are actually fan-fictions based of Mass Effect that have a better ending. That being said, Mass Effect 3 is still a good game. It just has an ending that deserves a spot in the albuquerque landfill. Okay that's the last thing I'm going to say on that ending. Probably. Any who, the game play was very fast paced and the enemy ambushes felt a lot more natural in this one then it did in the second game, which were as obvious as the outcome in a romance anime. The gun choice was extensive, but some didn't feel that different. And the gun and suit customization both were lacking. The suits were mainly the same ones from the last game so why couldn't I just drag those over? And I only used two of the gun customization the entire game. They should have kept the ones from the first game in this, come up with more or, I don't know, give each weapon their own custom add-on. The story-related levels and ME2 companion levels had more of an originality to them then the other games and actually gave each planet it's own feel. But the side missions were all stages from the co-op which is just plain lazy and diminished the value of the game's inherent originality. But back to the story related levels, I had the most fun playing those in compared to the other two games. I loved how the game became increasingly difficult as new enemies were added. Instead of just bombarding us with enemies to increase the difficulty, whenever a new enemy came onto the scene, I had trouble fighting them. And the levels they were introduced in did an amazing job of giving me time to cope with their unique fighting styles and capabilities. What really irked me was how the War Assets had no other function than raising the EMS and the fact that both Renegade and Paragon options were still open instead of being specific to the choices you have made throughout the game. One of the biggest problems with this game would have to be Javik and Vega. I have to seriously wonder why they were put into the game at all. I mean Vega really had little time to develop during the roller coaster ride the game had us experiencing and Javik was rather static. Aside from being the obvious black guy getting back at Imperial England by being a better imperialist, there was no point in him being in the game other than to tick me off. The best part of the game would have to be the sheer intensity I felt throughout the game.My favorite experience was the epic stare down with that Reaper on the Quarian/Geth home world. And each event after that just got more intense until the game pushed me off a cliff with that sorry excuse for an ending.… Expand
  53. DetectiveEyes
    Jul 2, 2012
    7
    Mass Effect 3 starts some time after the 2nd one ended. You are given the choice to go with the Role-play perspective of the game, with little combat throughout the game, or you can choose to go with the action perspective of the game with little Role-play and dialog, and more of the shooting and blowing stuff up. At the beginning it took me a moment to actually grasp what was happeningMass Effect 3 starts some time after the 2nd one ended. You are given the choice to go with the Role-play perspective of the game, with little combat throughout the game, or you can choose to go with the action perspective of the game with little Role-play and dialog, and more of the shooting and blowing stuff up. At the beginning it took me a moment to actually grasp what was happening but eventually it became pretty clear. Almost instantly you are given a gun and told to kill all the aliens in your path. Pretty soon after, you are given the choice to be nice and understanding of your friend or to be a complete jerk to him and tell to suck it up and fight. Then there's the whole decision making standpoint of the game, where you choose to do the right thing, or to do the wrong thing. Now for the problems, there's an equal amount of pros as there are cons in this game. The good parts of the game would definitely be its engaging storyline. However its bad counterpart is the 3 endings you are faced with. I wont get very deep into spoiler and whatnot, but the endings are all bad, and look like they were halfway done in order to make the Mass Effect 3 release date. The ending completely has nothing to do with everything you have done in the story whatsoever. However there is still hope. The game still had its relationship aspect where people could be your friends, your enemies, or your lover. Without the game you can alter the relationship at almost anytime, as you can talk to almost anybody, at any time. The game still has its aspect of freedom, to a certain point at least. Another problem with the game is the dialog system. When you are talking to somebody your facial, and body movements are not the most realistic. As with the person you are talking to. But I think most people would have to understand that the game would have come out sometime is early May or late April if the facial expressions were better than they are now. And it could have released sometime in June if they made the endings better. Overall this game is, in my opinion, worth the 60 dollars to pay for it, and also has some very nice sex scenes in it.… Expand
  54. tennisbeast21
    Jul 11, 2012
    10
    This games is absolutely AMAZING! While the ending is a bit annoying, it's not enough to hold this game back from being a ten. I thoroughly enjoyed this game as much as I did the rest of the series.
  55. mgyukeri
    Jul 15, 2012
    9
    While the ending to the epic trilogy caused probably the largest controversy a game release has ever had, Mass Effect 3 is a perfect game. At least until the last 15 minutes. Let me just say I have not played the "Extended Cut DLC", not have I seen the new endings on YouTube. My opinion is only on the physical release of the game, not its content. Mass Effect 3 delivers an emotionalWhile the ending to the epic trilogy caused probably the largest controversy a game release has ever had, Mass Effect 3 is a perfect game. At least until the last 15 minutes. Let me just say I have not played the "Extended Cut DLC", not have I seen the new endings on YouTube. My opinion is only on the physical release of the game, not its content. Mass Effect 3 delivers an emotional suckerpunch. With cameos from the original games and an epic story, Mass Effect 3 seems like the ending to a TV show you really love. I found myself crying more than once because of events that occurred. Look, the ending might turn you off, but the entire experience is only slightly marred. Mass Effect 3 is worth a try.… Expand
  56. JimitheKid07
    Jul 16, 2012
    10
    Way better than that 5.1 UAWay better than that 5.1 UAWay better than that 5.1 UAWay better than that 5.1 UAWay better than that 5.1 UAWay better than that 5.1 UAWay better than that 5.1 UAWay better than that 5.1 UAWay better than that 5.1 UAWay better than that 5.1 UAWay better than that 5.1 UA
  57. 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
  58. TheHumanBoss
    Jul 21, 2012
    10
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. I'm a huge fan of the series all the way. Sure the ending wasn't what we as users wanted, but Bioware tried to fixed it, even though you think they failed they still tried and are still trying. I am 50, 50 on the ending. But you got to think of the moral Bioware was trying to send us, but some users are just to ignorant to pay attention. They been trying to tell us the same lesson throughout the whole series, staring with Mass Effect 1. They want to tell us that you can accomplish anything if you just stand firm with your beliefs. In ME3, you can tell Shepard knows that he will lose, but he still gathers help from everywhere by putting their differences aside and focusing on the real problem. And in the end, the "kid" knew that Shepard's cycle has a chance and are coming very close to destroying the Reapers, so instead of letting Shepard win he tries to convince him for a final time that control is the best way to go, but Shepard has a stronger willpower and sticks with his "new solution". To me, this series will always be on top of any other game, not because of gameplay, but because of the story and the characters.… Expand
  59. 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
  60. Julli
    Jul 30, 2012
    9
    The user critic score is really skewed by child-like reviews. I didn't like the ending, so I'll give it one .. or zero. Those people are completely neglecting the fact that everything else than final five minutes of this game is simply super.
  61. befuzzled332
    Aug 20, 2012
    10
    i believe that this game deserves an 8.5 but gave it a 10 doing the little bit i can to raise the user score because as bad as the original game ending was it doesnt deserve a 5.2 score. until the end came i wouldve given this game a 10 but even the extended ending doesnt fulfill the sour taste of closure.but gameplay was solid ,story had me engaged (which is the main reason i play anyi believe that this game deserves an 8.5 but gave it a 10 doing the little bit i can to raise the user score because as bad as the original game ending was it doesnt deserve a 5.2 score. until the end came i wouldve given this game a 10 but even the extended ending doesnt fulfill the sour taste of closure.but gameplay was solid ,story had me engaged (which is the main reason i play any game) and now giving myself plenty of time to do a review the overall experience was worth an 8.5 with a sour ending most emotional game in recent time good example of this is the campaign to change the ending. the characters i truly felt something for. if someone died i felt it. the characters alone make this a worthy experience for anyone to enjoy… Expand
  62. BrunoAAMello
    Aug 30, 2012
    10
    This game is awsome This game is awsome This game is awsome This game is awsome This game is awsome This game is awsome This game is awsome This game is awsome This game is awsome This game is awsome This game is awsome This game is awsome This game is awsome This game is awsome This game is awsome This game is awsome This game is awsome This game is awsome This game is awsome This game isThis game is awsome This game is awsome This game is awsome This game is awsome This game is awsome This game is awsome This game is awsome This game is awsome This game is awsome This game is awsome This game is awsome This game is awsome This game is awsome This game is awsome This game is awsome This game is awsome This game is awsome This game is awsome This game is awsome This game is awsome This game is awsome This game is awsome This game is awsome This game is awsome This game is awsome This game is awsome This game is awsome This game is awsome This game is awsome This game is awsome This game is awsome This game is awsome This game is awsome This game is awsome This game is awsome This game is awsome This game is awsome This game is awsome This game is awsome This game is awsome This game is awsome This game is awsome This game is awsome This game is awsome This game is awsome This game is awsome This game is awsome This game is awsome This game is awsome This game is awsome This game is awsome This game is awsome This game is awsome This game is awsome This game is awsome This game is awsome This game is awsome This game is awsome… Expand
  63. StripestheZebra
    Sep 20, 2012
    10
    Really, Mass Effect 3 just rocks. If you enjoyed the previous 2 even a little, be prepared to be amazed. It kind of melds the best elements of Mass Effect with the vibrancy and life of Mass Effect 2, which was easily the game of the year back in 2010. And the sheer amount of times you find yourself yelling 'oh **** at the screen is something else
  64. Mwoullard
    Oct 4, 2012
    7
    Good game. But has a lot of cons.
  65. Magnifico
    Jul 2, 2013
    9
    Sure the ending my not be the best we could've asked for.. sure the decisions we have made doesn't mean much when the end comes our way.. but aren't we missing the bigger picture of how a game can bring out all these emotions? I love the Mass Effect series all the way up to 3, a trilogy that will be talked about for many more years to come..
  66. WindAeris
    Oct 27, 2012
    1
    It's highly repetitive, has no real values, and doesn't serve a point. I am greatly disappointed. I didn't see a value in the game play, it seemed more of shooting things, end of the world, we need to get a move on it. It tries too hard to imply the severity of the situation.
  67. Fenchurch1
    Aug 30, 2013
    9
    All the stops have been pulled out to make this the best Mass Effect yet with improved graphics and visuals making the cut scenes all the more enjoyable. Added depth in weapon customisation, improved audio and more information than you can ever need or want to read. A wealth of back-story and information on races and planets is also available for anyone who likes that kind of thing. TheAll the stops have been pulled out to make this the best Mass Effect yet with improved graphics and visuals making the cut scenes all the more enjoyable. Added depth in weapon customisation, improved audio and more information than you can ever need or want to read. A wealth of back-story and information on races and planets is also available for anyone who likes that kind of thing. The voice acting and scriptwriting is great, as has become standard for Mass Effect and the AI has been improved to make combat more intense and challenging than ever.… Expand
  68. 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
  69. Phil133
    Nov 13, 2012
    9
    An Amazing game, great story which has you completely absorbed in the world of Shepard. This game also incorporates a large number of choices/ significant actions that the player made in games 1 and 2 which makes me impressed at the scope of number 3 -> The number of different ways events can play out based on prior actions/ character sex/ The paragon and Renegade morality system.
  70. TheGamer31
    Dec 14, 2012
    5
    This game was good, I enjoyed most of it. Mainly because by the time it kept getting closer to then end, it got a little retarded. For some reason, an anchor lady knows Kung-Fu. I laughed my head off at that part, and then the endings were AWFUL. They were bland, or at least that's what I though, and they were all way too similar, only with slight differences.
  71. 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
  72. ubergeekzilla
    Nov 22, 2012
    10
    a fantastic game. with the new extended cut mass effect 3 ends the trilogy in a great way. its epic, exciting, dramatic, its equally as good as mass effect 2. the only negatives are the journal system sucks now...but the gamepaly, characters, graphics, everything is top notch. the best game of 2012 and one of the best games ever overall
  73. 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
  74. shprea
    Jun 25, 2013
    9
    Mass Effect 3 takes everything that made the first two Mass Effect games amazing and refines them to a tee. The gamplay is an improvement over the already improved Mass Effect 2 gameplay. The music is just as grand as the other games. The graphics are sharp with barely any technical issues. The story is compelling, full of victorious, sad, and memorable moments. Really, this game has itMass Effect 3 takes everything that made the first two Mass Effect games amazing and refines them to a tee. The gamplay is an improvement over the already improved Mass Effect 2 gameplay. The music is just as grand as the other games. The graphics are sharp with barely any technical issues. The story is compelling, full of victorious, sad, and memorable moments. Really, this game has it all.
    Many complain about the ending of the game. While I believe the ending was a little disappointing, it's not worth giving the game a 1/10 over.

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

    9/10    … Expand
  75. KingSamppa94
    Mar 9, 2013
    9
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. Awesome game. i don´t get why so many people give this game so bad score, its excellent. Combat has been improved, more customization options, favorite characters make at least a cameo which is good, though i would have liked to have a krogan team member. Story might not be as good as ME2 or ME1 but, it doesnt deserve so bad score just because the ending, though they improved it with extended cut. People Shouldnt give this 6,5,4,3,2 or 1 because some ending, story and because it doesnt have so much RPG aspects as Mass Effect 1. But the game still kicks ass on story while it isnt as good as we wanted it be it still is awesome. There is more different weapons than before and the customization is better than ME 1 or ME 2. So overall the improves on combat, customization but is bit of letdown on story and ending.… Expand
  76. GildaTheGriffin
    May 25, 2013
    9
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. After porting my character over it has made my experience of this game much better. As since I never played Mass Effect 1 before I started Mass Effect 2 as a start to my first playthrough, it felt like I never missed anything. But after playing Mass Effect 1 and doing choices I felt we're morally good and some badass renegade as well: Like releasing the Rachni Queen or giving Anderson council position. But to my disappointment, Anderson has like no price or worth in the story if you give him council position. But other choices are good: Like Rachni helps you more, compared to the synthetic Rachni. But over all... The game is as good as I remember it. Building an army from random side missions and finding armor and weapon parts seem very fun. :P I have a pleasure in customizing... Also, everyone needs to calm down about the endings. It gives you three options in the end, but each option has so much more into it that effects the universe.… Expand
  77. 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.
  78. Mothman13
    Mar 16, 2013
    7
    I'll start right off the bat that Mass Effect 3 is a good game.It isn't as good as Mass Effect 1 & 2 and as a final part of Commander Shephard's story it doesn't fully deliver. The choices you made in the last games don't effect the story that much and the ending seems forced and not fitting at all. It is easily the weakest of the otherwise amazing trilogy.
  79. EWD
    Mar 18, 2013
    9
    In an industry of the quick one-liner shooter and linear choice rpg I find it good to see some writing power being put behind a game to give it more of a endearing and drawing in quality. Mass effect's universe has always given players more in the way of choices, relationship development and Mass effect 3 has now promised to give us the fruits of our labor. I come to really enjoy everyIn an industry of the quick one-liner shooter and linear choice rpg I find it good to see some writing power being put behind a game to give it more of a endearing and drawing in quality. Mass effect's universe has always given players more in the way of choices, relationship development and Mass effect 3 has now promised to give us the fruits of our labor. I come to really enjoy every person I meet in the game and the inspired locations in it and It did make me feel as though what I did in the game's shaped the universe around me and most popular games just don't give you that, really doesn't. Now my thoughts on the linear endings is that for me I was playing for the in game experience and I knew that there would be more games and like past games in the series I never really see the "end" as a final game and I didnt expect developers to have the time to come up with hundreds of different endings for every choice we made, though they shouldn't of promised that but its a mistake people make them. I'm satisfied with how they rectified the problem people had and will be back.… Expand
  80. Vanadium
    Mar 21, 2013
    9
    This is a very good game, and has been exposed to far too much negative publicity. It has been a brilliant series, and this is a very good continuation of the Mass Effect trilogy. The gameplay is better than any previous installment, with good graphics and some missions being very well executed and thought out: Tuchanka and Rannoch in particular. That said, the lack of more conversationThis is a very good game, and has been exposed to far too much negative publicity. It has been a brilliant series, and this is a very good continuation of the Mass Effect trilogy. The gameplay is better than any previous installment, with good graphics and some missions being very well executed and thought out: Tuchanka and Rannoch in particular. That said, the lack of more conversation decisions, and less squad members, as well as the now infamous ending might plague the game somewhat. The multiplayer in itself is very addictive, a fun Horde mode where the main problem is an infuriatingly unlikely random store, which seems to be an excuse for those dreaded microtransactions. All in all, Mass Effect 3 is a great game, all though it may be slightly plagued by some problems blown way out of proportion.… Expand
  81. gstiker5
    Apr 4, 2013
    10
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. MY BEST RPG EVER!
    Good
    Awesome Presentation Graphics,Textures,Art, The Best Gameplay in the series,Throwable Grenades, RPG Elements are back and there are a lot, Tons of Different Looking Guns, Mods add Actual Physical as well as performance enhancements, Intresting Characters, A Ton Of Content, Free Extended Cut DLC, Great Choices Now even more galaxy wide including one which can result in the destruction of an entire friendly alein race,So Much
    Bad
    Original Ending,    … Expand
  82. Gavin7887
    May 20, 2013
    9
    this is a game where they took everything from the last two games and made it 10 TIMES BETTER. the only reason this game gets a 1 point deduction is the end. why some decide to give it a low sco.re because of the ending is uncalled for. sure the ending is bad and is suposed to be determined by choice, but the god damned great gameplay is unforgetable and people should get over the ending.this is a game where they took everything from the last two games and made it 10 TIMES BETTER. the only reason this game gets a 1 point deduction is the end. why some decide to give it a low sco.re because of the ending is uncalled for. sure the ending is bad and is suposed to be determined by choice, but the god damned great gameplay is unforgetable and people should get over the ending. they even fixed it… Expand
  83. 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!
  84. gyigyo2
    May 18, 2013
    10
    Its easily the Best Game of 2012 i really enjoyed and liked every minute, Yes even the ending was great i nearly cried and this is the only game what could make me cry.Finally not a dissapointment boring always fairy tale happy ending.
  85. 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's    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's definitely worth playing.    … Expand
  86. WrigleyJiggly1
    Jun 1, 2013
    9
    Mass Effect 3 is the pinnacle of RPG and third-person shooters. This is truly my favorite game ever made, and I have only said that about one other game... Mass Effect 2. Then this masterpiece came along. And I see no reason to complain about the ending with the extended cut, but trolls never have too much intellect do they?
  87. 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 with    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 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
  88. PossM
    May 6, 2014
    10
    I think it is selfish to give the game a 3 or 4 because some people thought the ending was not satisfying. The rest of the game was fantastic, and everything was improved upon from ME2. Better combat and better story. I loved the ending by the way, it wraps up the trilogy well, and I was satisfied with it. I see all of these people saying they were fans of the trilogy, but gave it a 2 forI think it is selfish to give the game a 3 or 4 because some people thought the ending was not satisfying. The rest of the game was fantastic, and everything was improved upon from ME2. Better combat and better story. I loved the ending by the way, it wraps up the trilogy well, and I was satisfied with it. I see all of these people saying they were fans of the trilogy, but gave it a 2 for the ending. The ending was maybe 2% of the entire game, the other 98% was the same Mass Effect we all know and love. Perfect end Bioware, I am thankful to have spent my time upon the Normandy.… Expand
  89. greatbernard
    Jul 31, 2013
    7
    Mass Effect 3 refines the combat and action of the previous games and presents a conclusion to the story with plenty of memorable moments and tough decisions. However, the pacing dulls a bit, the game becomes repetitive and predictable and the ending, while good in concept, was poorly executed. Not the best in the series, but in the end, a decent game nonetheless if you can overlook the flaws.
  90. PicklesOfWar
    Dec 17, 2013
    7
    MASS EFFECT 3 is an excellent game with a top notch story, gameplay and the presentation is phenomenal. Bioware couldn't have ended the Sheppard trilogy any better. Throughout its 12 hour campaign i never got bored and just wanted more, the game is vast and you will have a lot of locations and planets to visit before the finale on earth and the ending is spectacular but not to everyone'sMASS EFFECT 3 is an excellent game with a top notch story, gameplay and the presentation is phenomenal. Bioware couldn't have ended the Sheppard trilogy any better. Throughout its 12 hour campaign i never got bored and just wanted more, the game is vast and you will have a lot of locations and planets to visit before the finale on earth and the ending is spectacular but not to everyone's tastes, which i understand. Its a (A,B,C) ending with very little differences but it was well written, even with the extended cut version there were still plot holes which need explaining big time… Expand
  91. 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
  92. DeathtoSpongify
    Sep 20, 2013
    10
    This game is the best possible way the Mass Effect Trilogy could have ended. Although the characters and story are so nuanced that it takes a player with a real attention to detail to get the full experience, this game has very few shortcomings. At the outset, ME3 impresses with solid mechanics, great visuals, and carefully executed dialogue. This really is the best combination of shooterThis game is the best possible way the Mass Effect Trilogy could have ended. Although the characters and story are so nuanced that it takes a player with a real attention to detail to get the full experience, this game has very few shortcomings. At the outset, ME3 impresses with solid mechanics, great visuals, and carefully executed dialogue. This really is the best combination of shooter and RPG that I have ever seen. The game takes great care to make your character feel like yours, moreso even than games like Skyrim or Oblivion. When played to the extent to which it was intended, Mass Effect 3 offers deep sentimental attachments to a multitude of characters, as well as a story that, although slightly predictable, is so involved that it is rendered unforgettable.… Expand
  93. Masters_Che
    Oct 9, 2013
    9
    Mass Effect 3 is the epic conclusion of one of the most ambitious, memorable, amazing stories in modern media. The lore is rich, but relatable and accessible. In this, the 3rd installment of the trilogy, Commander Shepard (the protagonist) is tasked with confronting a massive threat to the galaxy while being tasked with forging tenuous alliances with other races that aren't on the bestMass Effect 3 is the epic conclusion of one of the most ambitious, memorable, amazing stories in modern media. The lore is rich, but relatable and accessible. In this, the 3rd installment of the trilogy, Commander Shepard (the protagonist) is tasked with confronting a massive threat to the galaxy while being tasked with forging tenuous alliances with other races that aren't on the best terms with each other.

    Compared to earlier Mass Effect games, the combat has been refined. The controls feel responsive and crisp. I no longer felt as though Shepard was dragging a piano behind him as in previous games. You're also able to roll, which makes a huge difference in this game given the faster paced combat and more intelligent AI (e.g. they will flank you and bust you out of cover). In addition, power combos have been enhanced. To me, it's one of the things I love most about the game play. You have the ability to inflict more damage by hitting an enemy with a particular power (e.g. telekinetic/mystic, tech-based and grenadier for the uninitiated) and then following up with another special power that creates an effect that adds more damage and potentially causes collateral damage to nearby enemies.

    In addition, I really enjoyed seeing how the story arch does take into consideration your choices from the previous installments. While some of these past choices only affect minor aesthetic aspects of the experience (e.g. you see some generic character in a particular role than a character from Mass Effect "one"), others have implications that extend to the epilogue (e.g. the fate of a particular race). Be warned, if you've grown to care about any character from these games, then you will cry. Often. Most of these tears can be attributed to direct shots to your heart via non-exploitative nostalgia and very touching/tender moments.

    The music score in this game is epic. Clint Mansell (frmly Pop Will Eat Itself, Trent Reznor buddy, Grammy nominated composer of the score from "Black Swan") lends his talents and provides some of the most heart swelling pieces I've ever heard. Not to mention the amazing talents of Sam Hulick. I cannot tell you the number of times I've listened to the main soundtrack....

    As for the technical aspects: Great graphics and sound. Yes, there are the occasional texture pop-in issues (which can be minimized by installing the game) and the odd glitches that range from peculiar to downright unnerving. There's one glitch that I consistently encounter in the game with every play thru that played a role in me scoring the game a 9 versus 10. It's not game breaking, but more immersion breaking. It doesn't last long, but it will haunt your dreams...

    Overall, the critical/story advancing missions where fun and fast paced; however, I wish there were more opportunities to explore as opposed to being compelled to push forward. While in retrospect, I've regarded the Mako-based missions from the first game to be a bit tedious; having played through it again I have to admit that I kind of miss them and the sense of scale that being able to explore a sandbox brought to the experience. However, one has to weigh that against the overall sense of urgency that the game creates, both inherent to the plot and with nice little music tricks (e.g., more frantic movements in the music which gets your heart racing).

    Side quests for the most part, are relegated to "Fly here, scan this planet, collect item, bring back to someone in the Citadel". This was a truly missed opportunity to have more fleshed out missions and combat. Also, War Assets, gained by completing missions and helping other races' militaries/leadership, are a pretty neat way of ensuring people complete as many side quests as possible to get the "best ending"; the threshold for getting the "best ending" is easily attained. This is especially true if you play the fantastic, though simplistic multiplayer, and if you play any of the DLC.

    While speaking in superlatives about this franchise has become esoteric controversy w/in the more ardent rank and file within the Mass Effect fanbase, ironically, these words are the best way I can express my opinion of this game and the franchise overall. Despite some of its short comings, I was more than satisfied with the experience, from beginning to end and I highly recommend it.

    IMPORTANT NOTE: Make sure you have the Extended Cut downloaded. It makes a huge difference in the ending of the game so I would say it is essential.and it's free. Furthermore, though not essential, I recommend that "From Ashes", "Leviathan" and "The Citadel" DLCs be purchased. These are fantastic pieces of add-on content for those who can't get enough of the lore and character interactions. Omega is an ok piece of DLC, but it feels more like an option than any other DLC in the franchise.    … Expand
  94. TheWaffle
    Jan 1, 2015
    10
    There are few words for what Mass Effect means to gamers and video games in general. Basically, it's incredible. Flawless gameplay, a galaxy-spanning storyline, gripping characters, and a game that leaves you wishing that it would never end. Whether you're blasting your way through alien hordes to rescue old friends or watching helplessly as you tell a character that her husband diedThere are few words for what Mass Effect means to gamers and video games in general. Basically, it's incredible. Flawless gameplay, a galaxy-spanning storyline, gripping characters, and a game that leaves you wishing that it would never end. Whether you're blasting your way through alien hordes to rescue old friends or watching helplessly as you tell a character that her husband died fighting the reapers, it's impossible to escape the brutality of this universe falling apart before your very eyes. I've beaten ME3 six times, and there's barely any crack in my enjoyment on successive playthroughs. Call me a fanboy, but I loved this game and the trilogy. The idea that the users gave ME3, ~6/10 is laughable. ME3 is one of the best games ever made.… Expand
  95. Whitewarrior115
    Dec 27, 2013
    10
    Mass Effect 3 has one of the best written stories i have seen in a game. It is an epic and interesting story throughout and has very good dialog. The game play is good and it keeps things interesting. You can level up different powers depending on which one you like best. All in all, it is one of the best games i have played and probably THE best.
  96. Matty888
    Jan 2, 2014
    9
    This is an amazing game. The immersive single-player actually includes characters you feel something for, and the choices you make impact the game heavily. The best thing id say about this game is the customization of powers and weapons. The ending is good, the only problem with it is its 3 different endings that actually end up with all the same outcome. The game might as well have saidThis is an amazing game. The immersive single-player actually includes characters you feel something for, and the choices you make impact the game heavily. The best thing id say about this game is the customization of powers and weapons. The ending is good, the only problem with it is its 3 different endings that actually end up with all the same outcome. The game might as well have said "what colour would you like the destruction of the universe to be?" After 3 great games, it ends with shephard dying for his galaxy, even though he didnt really need to die? Oh well, lets see what mass effect 4 has in store for us.… Expand
  97. Marsonra
    Aug 27, 2014
    10
    Mass Effect 3. This is a game that I have heard non-stop controversy over. Most people say that this game has one of the worst endings to a video game ever. Some say that it is so bad, that it ruined the entire series. I don't believe this is true however. I played the first two Mass Effect games before I played this one, and I thought they were both absolutely fantastic games.Mass Effect 3. This is a game that I have heard non-stop controversy over. Most people say that this game has one of the worst endings to a video game ever. Some say that it is so bad, that it ruined the entire series. I don't believe this is true however. I played the first two Mass Effect games before I played this one, and I thought they were both absolutely fantastic games. Nothing will ever change my opinion on both of those games, not even if the series completely jumps the shark. As for this game, many of you are probably wondering my opinion on it. So, is this the fantastic conclusion to Commander Shepard's story we were all hoping for, or is the ending enough to ruin the entire series? Let's find out. The gameplay of this game is very much like the other two Mass Effect games that came before it. It is an action RPG that has third-person shooter elements. This game is every bit as fun as Mass Effect 1 and 2 before it. It also adds a few improvements this time around. For instance, the omni-tool can now be used as a blade for close range combat. While you probably won't find much use for it, seeing as how most enemies must be engaged from mid to long range, it can be useful for occasional stealth attacks and one-hit-kills. Also, the game's combat is now more of a mixture between Mass Effect 1 and Mass Effect 2. It definitely takes more elements from the latter rather than the former, but grenades are now back instead of grenade launchers. Medi-gel also now works in a similar way as it did in Mass Effect 1. It is now used to restore your health as well as your squad-mates'. The game is also pretty fun outside of combat. Outside of combat, you have to talk to people and aliens in order to go on more quests in the game. The dialogue wheel from the first two Mass Effects returns here, and it is every bit as good as it was in the first two games. The only real problem I have with this game's gameplay is that there are occasional bugs and glitches that I feel like they should have fixed before release. Some of the bugs are game-breaking, but they don't occur often enough to make them feel like a big problem. Despite occasional bugs, the gameplay is still every bit as good as it was in Mass Effect 1 and 2. If you enjoyed both of the previous two games for their tight gameplay, you'll feel right at home with this game. Anyone who didn't enjoy the gameplay will likely have to look elsewhere, as the gameplay hasn't evolved too much over Mass Effect 2, despite having a couple of additions to it. As for the graphics, this is one thing that this game definitely does better over both of its predecessors. The graphics now look sharper and more realistic than they ever did in the first two Mass Effect games. Everything in this game is very beautiful to look at, and worth experiencing for this reason alone. While it is not a huge improvement over Mass Effect 2, it is definitely an improvement. As for the story, this is the part that everyone seems to hate, all because of how it ends. I'm not going to spoil the ending here, however, I will say this: the ending really is not enough to ruin the entire game, or any of the other games in the franchise before it. Yes, the ending of this game could have been better, but hey, let's be honest, it also could have been a lot worse. The story of this game is still fantastic, despite having a not so great ending. The story continues on after the events of Mass Effect 2, showing that the Reapers have now invaded the Milky Way, and their first target is Earth. You will spend the rest of the game as Commander Shepard, getting together a squad, along with the entire galaxy to fight the Reaper threat. Many plot points from Mass Effect 2 reach their conclusion in this game. Also, Mass Effect 3 has the same good and evil decisions to make as in the first two games. Since this story is every bit as good as its predecessors, the ending aside, I don't think it's fair for people to hate this game simply because the ending was terrible. Overall, I love this game. Hate me all you want, but I think this game is the second best Mass Effect game. Mass Effect 2 is still better than this, but Mass Effect 3 is still better than Mass Effect 1. The ending to this game is really the only downside to it.
    Gameplay: 10/10
    Graphics: 10/10
    Story: 9/10
    Overall: 10/10    … Expand
  98. HaloFever
    Jul 16, 2014
    10
    The "Mass Effect" series is the greatest trilogy of games in history, and the best games ever for the Xbox 360. The last entry, "Mass Effect 3", is the best of the three and a must play. Keep in mind that a majority of negative reviews are tied to the games ending, which only disappoints with respect to the series as a whole.

    "Mass Effect 3" shines in its convergence of story with    The "Mass Effect" series is the greatest trilogy of games in history, and the best games ever for the Xbox 360. The last entry, "Mass Effect 3", is the best of the three and a must play. Keep in mind that a majority of negative reviews are tied to the games ending, which only disappoints with respect to the series as a whole.

    "Mass Effect 3" shines in its convergence of story with gameplay. Some of the sequences are a little too "Call of Duty", with the cover mechanic too often negated by the liberal use of grenades on the enemy side. The shooting gameplay feels lazily developed and rather trite except the hero side has liberal use of technological powers, including the ability to use element zero to make black holes. The nicely balanced gameplay of shooting and power use makes for a fresh and exciting tactical shooter.

    The second pillar of the gameplay is the conversation. This is the players real chance to alter the storyline. Imagine how much more fun you could have in "Call of Duty" if you could talk the characters into avoiding the next explosion that blurs your vision and rings your ears. The character loyalty missions are back from "Mass Effect 2", but here they are bigger and necessary to win the war. "Mass Effect 2" was fun, and self parodying, but "Mass Effect 3" is the grown up version, where Shepard doesn't go on missions just to get laid.    … Expand
  99. Deusex
    Jun 14, 2014
    9
    One of the best series I've played, and its Epic last game. (of the trilogy)
    basically for this review im gonna add the things it does well and the things it does bad. if you want anything about gameplay, check out my Mass Effect 2 review.
    Pros: - Amazing Backgrounds during battle. - Reapers feel real, and a like a real threat - more customization - great last two missions - a bit    One of the best series I've played, and its Epic last game. (of the trilogy)
    basically for this review im gonna add the things it does well and the things it does bad. if you want anything about gameplay, check out my Mass Effect 2 review.

    Pros:
    - Amazing Backgrounds during battle.
    - Reapers feel real, and a like a real threat
    - more customization
    - great last two missions
    - a bit inspirational.

    Cons:
    - That Ending lol.
    - Too much like 2 in terms of gameplay.
    - Some returning characters, you cant interact with them as much as you wish. Why cant i convince Miranda to join my crew again? etc.    … Expand
  100. ProximateXbox
    Mar 13, 2014
    10
    I absolutely love this game. it is completely story driven with great character development and epic gameplay. It is also the only game I think I have ever released emotional feelings about as the story and the dire situations kept me engaged at all times. I honestly believe this is the best game I have ever played. as It was more compelling and engaging than any other game I had everI absolutely love this game. it is completely story driven with great character development and epic gameplay. It is also the only game I think I have ever released emotional feelings about as the story and the dire situations kept me engaged at all times. I honestly believe this is the best game I have ever played. as It was more compelling and engaging than any other game I had ever played. I recommend this for any sci-fi fan. but to actually get the absolute true experience they must play the first 2 games. and perhaps they will get the same feeling I had when I completed this one. The people at bioware know what they are doing and I'm extremely excited for Mass effect 4.… Expand
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Awards & Rankings

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

Critic Reviews

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Metascore
93

Universal acclaim - based on 74 Critic Reviews

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