Mass Effect 2

Mass Effect 2 (Xbox 360)
Platform PC and Xbox 360
Created by Bioware
Published by EA

Overview

This is the highly anticipated sequel to the hit video game Mass Effect. In Mass Effect 2 you once again assume the role of Commander John Shepard in his fight to stop the Reapers from eliminating all organic life in the galaxy.

Gameplay

The gameplay is similar to that of the first game control wise though Shepard doesn’t move as sluggishly as he did in the first game. Again you can have up to two squad mates like the previous game. Some major changes to the game over the previous include Shepard and squad members now have a finite amount of ammo though ammo is pretty easy to come by in the game so if you run out just switch to a different weapon until you can pick up more ammo from fallen enemies. Also the upgrade system has been changed around rather than finding upgrades like in the first game and attaching them to as modules in your weapon and armor you now upgrade them from the ship. This might sound like a hassle but it’s actually very well implemented. Also the leveling up experience is changed too you no longer get XP from enemies but rather get it from completing missions and side quests. Finally the “Powers system” is also change you are presented with 4 initial skills with four slots in each for example since Shepard is a solider he gets that as a skill set with four spots to upgrade, the first costing one skill point, second tier costs two skill points and so on. Once you fill up the fourth tier you are presented with two upgrade options in the case of ammo type you can get improved damage or your whole squad can use that type of ammo. Also another change in the game is the annoying elevator rides no longer do you have to sit in an elevator while you get from one destination to another instead your treated to a loading screen with tips. Overall gameplay has vastly improved over the first game though I will admit after coming off a fresh play through of Mass Effect I was very apprehensive about Mass Effect 2 but once I got used to the new changes they were very welcomed changes.

8.5 out of 10.

Graphics

Just when you though the game couldn’t improve any more it does, the graphics get a huge upgrade over Mass Effect 1. Textures are greatly improved and so are facial animations. There are still a few dull textures here and there but nothing to complain about.

9.5 out of 10

Sound

Another high point of the game is the sound design. The OST is simply amazing; it complements the Mass Effect Universe fairly well. The sound effects are great as well one nice touch is now when you’re running its like time slows down so if your squad mate says something while running it’s all distorted and such. A really cool touch if you ask me. Surround sound effects are really great too, excellent channel placement.

9.5 out of 10.

Content

Another shining example of the game is content. The game is simply massive not just spanning over a few galaxy clusters like in Mass Effect. There is so much to do in the game from completing side quests or gathering minerals for upgrades which you do by scanning planet’s surfaces. Like the previous title and all Bioware RPGs you can play as either a good guy called Paragon in the Mass Effect Universe or a Renegade if you choose the evil route these two add even more replayability to the game. On a final note the game supports DLC to add to the replayability. The first few packs where free assuming you have your Cerberus account which is included for people who bought the game new.

9.5 out of 10.

Overall 9.25 out of 10

Pros

-Amazing follow up to Mass Effect

-Improved vastly over the first

-DLC some of which is free

Cons

-Non really that I can think of.