Mass Effect 2

This game is like Infinity War to ME3's Endgame, setting up the finale while being the best in the franchise. Seriously recommended for any sci-fi-RPG-head out there.

Seriously? It's Mass Effect 2. You know it's amazing. The world, the characters, the story. It's going to be great. Just play it.

Back in 2010, as a huge fan of the original game, I dove straight into "Mass Effect 2," and I found myself completely absorbed by the universe. The sequel to BioWare’s ambitious sci-fi RPG, "Mass Effect," this game managed to exceed expectations in many ways, offering a more streamlined and action-packed experience.

From the start, Mass Effect 2 impresses with its dramatic opening, setting the stakes high and immediately hooking you into its narrative. The story is a significant draw, focusing on assembling a diverse team for a seemingly suicidal mission. This simple yet compelling plot framework provides a deep sense of urgency and drives the player forward.

Character development is one of the game’s strongest points. Each member of your squad has a unique backstory and personality, which are explored through well-crafted loyalty missions. These missions not only deepen the game's world but also affect the dynamics of the final mission, adding layers of emotional investment to the gameplay.

The graphics were a noticeable improvement over the original, with sharper textures and more detailed environments, making the exploration of different planets and space stations more visually rewarding. The user interface and combat system were also significantly refined. Combat felt smoother and more intuitive, with a better cover system and more strategic use of abilities and squad commands.

Mass Effect 2 streamlined many of the RPG elements of the first game, which was a double-edged sword. On one hand, it made the game less cumbersome by simplifying the inventory and upgrading systems, making it more accessible for casual gamers like myself. On the other hand, some fans of traditional RPGs might have missed the depth of customisation available in the first game.

The voice acting and musical score were top-notch, enhancing the cinematic feel of the game and elevating the emotional impact of key moments. The game’s pacing was excellent, with a good balance between main story missions and optional side quests, which were engaging without being overwhelming.

In retrospect, Mass Effect 2 was not just a game but an experience. It managed to blend action, storytelling, and character development in a way that was both accessible to casual gamers and satisfying to more dedicated fans. It’s a game that stayed with me long after I put down the controller, and looking back, it’s easy to see why it’s considered one of the best games of its era. Whether you're in it for the story, the action, or the chance to explore a vast and detailed sci-fi universe, "Mass Effect 2" delivered an unforgettable adventure.

10/10 - The Triology is an absolute masterpiece. A must play for all fans of good stories or sci-fi!

Launching probe, probe away, launching probe, probe away, launching probe, probe away, launching probe, probe away, launching probe, probe away, launching probe, probe away, launching probe, probe away, launching probe.

On a real note, I'd say the strongest parts of the game are the beginning and ending. Most of the side content felt pretty underwhelming. I could have done without all of the recruiting missions and loyalty missions, they all felt pretty much the same. The game could have benefited from integrating squadmates more into both sidequests and the main quests. It is unfortunate that most of what you will be doing in the game is combat, because although the combat is improved from the first game, it's still not engaging enough for the runtime of the game. There is just not enough depth, weapons arent all that interesting, and worst of all enemy AI are dumber than dirt. Almost all enemy types can be dealt with the same way, point your gun and shoot them in the face. There simply is not enough depth in the combat to warrant how frequently they make you engage in it. Shepard can be pretty hit or miss as a character, he does have some good moments. I would have liked to see more drama between squadmates. The hacking minigames are still a pain in the ass, they are not difficult, just mind numbingly tedious. That being said, I still love the mass effect universe and the world building. I'm cautiously optimistic for mass effect 3.

Actually it is good quality action RPG game but whole suicide mission is a big joke. Because you can't direct the scenario to cause some companions' death. For example, Miranda is invincible until the last defence option, which is you led 2 people to fight with boss and while create a group that, covers your back. Before that you could get killed every companion but not Miranda. For cutscene reasons, unfortunately. If you reject the offer of Illusive Man, Miranda will defy him. So "we should make her alive, until that point." That's is horrendous for solid RPG design. To survive everyone, you need to upgrade the ship armor, gun and base defence. Loyalty level is important. Once you do that some random decisions will decide outcome of the last mission. Objectively, ME1 is a better game..

I absolutely LOVED this game. This was my first playthrough and all I can say is that if you enjoyed ME1 then buckle up, because ME2 goes above and beyond its predecessor. The game reunites Shepard with companions from ME1 and introduces you to a whole new assortment of complex and interesting companions. And don't even get me started on the suicide mission finale; I was sitting on the edge of my chair the entire time. I could not recommend this series enough.