In our Mass Effect 2 preview, it became clear that this highly-anticipated sequel would outdo the original Mass Effect game in almost every way. There are however, critical components to this blockbuster that make it more than just superficially superior to Mass Effect.
As a stand-alone story, Mass Effect 2 can at times, seem formulaic. Commander Shepard, who previously rescued the galaxy from a rogue alien and an insane A.I. is gathering a crew of notorious and dangerous characters to solve a mystery involving a familiar foe. There are some twists and turns within the main storyline, but the true gems are found within the backstories of the various crewmembers themselves.
Bioware is known for its ability to create memorable characters, and in ME2, character animations, backstories, and dialogue all succeed in connecting the player’s emotions to each of the varied personalities in the game. In the end, the decisions a player makes will serve as investments into the different characters and the relationships that accompany them.
Combining different firearms and biotic abilities is still a part of the core gameplay, but management of Shepard and the rest of the crew during battles is done more efficiently. There are additional biotic skills introduced into this title, which will mix-up strategies for some of the more violent encounters throughout the game.
Completing the main campaign and many of the seemingly endless amounts of sidequests and tasks can an intimidating amount of time, and true completists would be happy to know that each character can be explored to varying degrees of depth. Add to the mix the various paragon and renegade actions and dialogue choices, and the game can take a number of different turns depending on the player’s in-game choices.
Exploration of planets is handled quite differently this time around. Instead of making landfall on a planet, players scan a planet from orbit. Scanning planets for minerals and potential quests requires responding to vibrations of the controller, not unlike how Batman: Arkham Asylum handled hacking through doors. In addition, faring through space can require micromanaging fuel and probe resources, which are used to harvest the minerals.
One of the more remarkable aspects of ME2 is the Live-connected “Cerberus Network,” which is available via an unlock code with every new purchase of ME2. The Cerberus Network grants access to exclusive downloadable content (both free and paid), which will make an already robust game even deeper. Used copies of the game will likely not come with the code to access the Cerberus Network, but access is available for purchase over the Xbox Live Marketplace. Clearly a method to encourage new game purchases over used game purchases, this sales strategy definitely provides a valuable incentive for new purchases over even video game rentals.
The textures, lighting, and direction are fitting for this immense and epic game. Cinematic is probably the best way to describe the look and feel of ME2, from the dynamic dialogue system, to the various worlds players will be embarking upon. Particle and glow effects are also impressive, but the animation could have used some polish. When roaming around the ship for example, Shepard will tilt his head over to one side, and run in an awkward position. Even some of the close-up shots of the hero make him look a little out of it.
In the voice acting department, talented actors such as Martin Sheen and Seth Green lead the cast to produce extremely convincing results. It is a little jarring when a very alien-looking character speaks with a perfectly normal American accent, but considering the amazing amount of voiced dialogue, a lack of completely unique languages or accents is forgivable.
ME2 continues the already stellar franchise with its polish and driving characters. This title will undoubtedly be a contender for Game of the Year, and with support for far-reaching and additional downloadable content, players just might be playing ME2 until at least the end of the year.
