Mass Effect

[D.A.N.]

This is now the official topic for [i]all[/i] Mass Effect discussion. [b]Please keep all spoilers in their tags to keep the dignity of this topic intact.[/b] To keep it organized, I have the details of each game conveniently put into a spoiler.

[center][img]http://img145.imageshack.us/img145/3136/masseffectlogolg.jpg[/img][/center]

"In the year 2148, explorers on Mars discovered the remains of an ancient spacefaring civilization. In the decades that followed, these mysterious artifacts revealed startling new technologies, enabling travel to the furthest stars. The basis for this incredible technology was a force that controlled the very fabric of space and time.

They called it the greatest discovery in human history.

The civilizations of the galaxy call it... MASS EFFECT."

[center]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nqBpRJ7qgaM[/center]

[spoiler][b][u]Setting[/b][/u]
Mass Effect is set in the year 2183 AD. Thirty-five years prior, humankind discovered a cache of technology on Mars, supposedly built by a technologically advanced but long-extinct race called the Protheans. Studying and adapting this technology, humanity has managed to break free of the solar system and has established numerous colonies and encountered various extraterrestrial species within the Milky Way galaxy. Utilizing alien artifacts known as Mass Relays, the various space-faring races are able to travel instantly across vast stretches of the galaxy. Within the game, humanity has formed the Human Systems Alliance, one of many independent bodies that make up the collective of "Citadel space".

The Human Systems Alliance is a rising power in the galactic stage. The only war they have participated in was the "First Contact War" in 2157. A human exploration expedition was activating dormant mass relays (which was a practice considered unsafe by citadel races). The turians attacked the small fleet and proceeded to capture the closest human world, Shanxi. The turians proceeded to starve out the remaining humans and occupy the planet. Facing starvation the human garrison surrendered to the Turian Hierarchy. One month later, the human Second Fleet responded by annihilating the turian fleet around Shanxi. In response the turians prepared for full scale war. The citadel council saw that humanity would either be annihilated or annexed by the turians and stepped in. The humans were then given an embassy in the Citadel Council.

Citadel space, as a whole, is ruled by a body of government known as the Council, which is made up of members of the three prominent alien races: the asari, a race of mono-gendered aliens which closely resemble blue-skinned human females; the short-lived salarians; and the raptor-like turians. Other alien species seen in the game include the reptilian krogan, the four-eyed, humanoid batarians, the aquatic hanar, and the methodical and quadrupedal elcor, and the environmental-suited quarians and volus. Dozens of other aliens are asserted to exist throughout the galaxy, but are not seen or mentioned in the game.

The game takes place primarily in two locations: the prototype frigate SSV Normandy, and the Citadel, a gigantic, ancient space station purportedly built by the Protheans and which currently acts as the center of galactic civilization. Throughout the game, however, the player may navigate the Normandy to various planets, moons and other destinations.

[b][u]Commander Shepard[/b][/u]
The player assumes the role of Commander Shepard, a veteran soldier who can be customized by the player. The character's appearance also varies based on the weaponry and armor the player uses. In addition to customizing Shepard's gender and appearance, players can also choose a back story for the character, which influences dialogue throughout the game, as well as which side missions will be available to the character.

The player's main character is almost always accompanied by two additional characters, providing support during battles and contributing to dialogue. These characters are not created by the player, and control over them is limited to directing squad movement and to the utilizing of their technological/biotic abilities. While aboard the Normandy, the player may construct relationships between Shepard and these characters, potentially opening up further assignments. There are six characters met in the game who will join the fight; each has a detailed back-story and hence their own reasons for wanting to help. Two of the characters are human and the other four are aliens.

[b][u]Creating your Shepard[/b][/u]
The game includes six character classes. Each class contains several "talents"; as each talent is leveled, the character either gains stats, unlocks new abilities (for example the "Carnage" ability allows the character to fire a concentrated explosive shotgun blast), or unlocks other talents. Each class also possesses a unique talent with the same name as its respective class; the characters may also have talents tied to their background.

When characters are first created, six classes are available: Soldier, Engineer, Adept, Infiltrator, Sentinel, and Vanguard. Soldiers are the most skilled with weaponry, Engineers make the most use of the omni-tool and tech-abilities, and Adepts are the best at using biotic powers. The other three classes are combinations of the first three: Infiltrators are a combination of Soldiers and Engineers, Sentinels are a combination of Engineers and Adepts, and Vanguards are a combination of Soldiers and Adepts. While the combination classes don't have the focus of the main classes, they are versatile and offer unique gameplay opportunities. Vanguards, for example, have access to half of the soldier skills and half of the Adept skills.

Players also have some control over their character's backstory. They are able to choose to have been either a "spacer" (born and bred in space), a "colonist" (born on one of Earth's extrasolar colonies), or "Earthborn" (hailing from the streets of one of Earth's cities). They also choose whether they have been the sole survivor of a terrible battle, a war hero, or a ruthless soldier. These backgrounds have only a small effect in the game, although many characters will reference the player's chosen background when talking to Commander Shepard. The character's background can also affect whether some sidequests are available or not. With only a few exceptions, the character's background does not directly affect the player's dialogue choices.

[b][u]Gameplay[/b][/u]
Combat in Mass Effect takes place in real time, but the player can pause at any time to change the squad's weapons, select different abilities for the squad members to use, or to give general squad orders. The player and his allies use firearms (modifiable with various upgrades throughout the game), Tech abilities (to interfere with enemy equipment and abilities), and biotics (similar to magical attacks or Force powers in other games) to fight their enemies. Players directly control their character's actions as well as their squadmates' attacks, but cannot take direct command of their squadmates. They can, however, issue commands using the directional pad, allowing the player to tell other characters to get behind cover, regroup, attack a specific target, or to scout ahead. Weapons and abilities of the squad members are selected via the use of two "wheel" interfaces: one for the weapons at the squad's disposal, and the other listing the available powers of each squad member and their respective recharge times. The command interface was reworked for the Windows version into displays on either side of the HUD for each squad member.

The abilities and special powers that characters have at their disposal are determined by the skill sets assigned to them at the beginning of the game and how further earned experience points have been allotted since then. Some special abilities include a biotic lift that can be used to pick up objects and enemies, and a tech ability that reduces the shields of enemies. Two other abilities, Charm and Intimidate, are dependent on points, storyline progression, and the amount of Paragon or Renegade points the player attains; raising the levels of these will not unlock any attacks, but instead open new dialogue options within the game.

Special abilities that the player can use in the game are tech abilities and biotics. Tech abilities are support powers used against enemy weapons and technology, as well as biotics. They are activated through the omni-tool, which three of the main classes can use: Engineers, Infiltrators, and Sentinels. These abilities include destroying enemy shields, sabotaging enemy weaponry, and hacking robotic enemies to fire on their own squad. Tech abilities also have passive uses, such as the Electronics talent, which allows the party to open locked crates or salvage components from wrecks. Biotics are powers accessed by the characters using implants that enhance natural abilities to manipulate dark energy, with mass effect fields. These abilities include hurling enemies around with the mind, raising shields that are resistant to enemy fire but still allow the player to fire through them, and creating small singularities that cause enemies and destructible parts of the environment to swirl about. Three of the main character classes are able to use these powers: Adepts (the main biotics class), Vanguards, and Sentinels.[/spoiler]

[center][img]http://img822.imageshack.us/img822/447/mass2logoprimaryrgb0903.jpg[/img][/center]

[b][u]Setting[/b][/u]
Two years after Commander Shepard repelled invading Reapers bent on the destruction of organic life, a mysterious new enemy has emerged. On the fringes of known space, something is silently abducting entire human colonies. Now Shepard must work with Cerberus, a ruthless organization devoted to human survival at any cost, to stop the most terrifying threat mankind has ever faced.

To even attempt this perilous mission, Shepard must assemble the galaxy's most elite team and command the most powerful ship ever built. Even then, they say it would be suicide. Commander Shepard intends to prove them wrong.

[center]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lCpK2XnIaeI[/center]

[spoiler][list]
[*] Prepare for a suicide mission to save humanity
[*] Choose between 19 different weapon types.
[*] Devastating heavy weapons that can end a battle in seconds
[*] Recruit a team of the galaxy's most dangerous operatives
[*] Explore the galaxy — scan planets to uncover unique secret missions
[*] Train and equip your team to survive insurmountable odds
[*] Control your conversation with physical moments of intense action
[/list]

[b][u]Gameplay Changes[/b][/u]
[list]
[*] New classes of weapons, and all weapons have a new overheat mechanic involving "thermal clips." This is a reload system to keep from the awkward feel of previous overheating. New weapon types include heavy pistols, machine pistols, SMGs, and the Heavy weapons.
[*] Interruptible conversations - Promised in ME1, but actually happening in ME2.
[*] New party members and romances, and yes, more aliens to bang.
[*] An exploration system that lets you use the Normandy to scout out planets, instead of landing and using the Mako to find pointless weapon upgrades you won't use anyway!
[*] Improved inventory system.
[*] No more insanely long elevator rides.
[*] Framerate is completely locked and the pop-up texture loading has been fixed. Here's to playing a game with real-time speed!
[*] Not only is the Mako gone, but side-quests are no longer ridiculously similar or just the same room with different NPCs.
[*] Targeting of individual body parts, enabling the player to make more damaging headshots or slow down an enemy by wounding, or shooting off, their leg.
[*] Cover is now entered manually, instead of automatically as it was in the first Mass Effect.
[*] A modified health system. Medi-gel has been removed from use, now only serving the purpose of reviving dead teammates. Instead the player's Health and Shields now regenerate slowly when the player is not taking damage.
[*] On the Xbox 360 it is now possible to map powers to the Y and LB buttons, as well as the RB button, allowing the player to cast up to 3 powers without pausing and bringing up the power wheel. You can also map a power to the left or right d-pad for each respective squad member to use. C-C-C-C-COMBO BREAKER!
[/list]

[b][u]Armor Customization - Pimp My Shepard[/b][/u]
At the armor locker the player can also customize many aesthetic aspects of their armor, including color, material and shininess as well as choose between different chest plates, leggings, etc. Shepard can also equip alternatives to helmets including a visor similar to the one worn by Garrus, goggles or a recon hood.

[u][b]Classes - They're actually different![/b][/u]
The game will be sticking with the original six classes from Mass Effect 1, though like before, most (if not all) of your companions will have special classes that are only available to them. The differences in the classes in the first game was mostly weapon use and passive abilities. This time, the changes and additions in combat make how they play much more obvious.

[list]
[*] Soldier - Pure combat. Skills: Adrenaline Rush, Concussive Shot, Disruptor Ammo, Incendiary Ammo, Cryo Ammo, Combat Mastery.
[*] Engineer - Pure tech. Skills: Combat Drone, Overload, Incinerate, Cryo Blast, AI Hacking, Mechanic.
[*] Adept - Pure biotic. Skills: Singularity, Warp, Throw, Pull, Shockwave, Biotic Mastery.
[*] Infiltrator - Combat/tech. Skills: Tactical Cloak, Incinerate, AI Hacking, Cryo ammo, Disruptor ammo, Operative.
[*] Sentinel - Tech/biotic. Skills: Assault Armor, Throw, Warp, Overload, Cryo Blast, Defender.
[*] Vanguard - Combat/biotic. Skills: Charge, Pull, Shockwave, various ammo types.[/list]

Here is a video cycling through all the classes in action.

[media]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xJnHsJTOvXc[/media]

[u][b]Squad Members[/b][/u]
In Mass Effect 2 the player has the opportunity to build a team of twelve at any one time. As opposed to six squad members in the first Mass Effect, there will be twelve this time around. Here are the new squad members that are confirmed thus far.

[b]Miranda Lawson[/b] - A female human informant for Cerberus and also a main character in the iPhone/iPod Touch game "Mass Effect Galaxy." Miranda heads Project Lazarus and learns everything there is to know about Shepard. One of the love interest options for male Shepard.

[b]Jacob Taylor[/b] - A human biotic, the main protagonist of Mass Effect Galaxy and a squad member in Mass Effect 2. A former Alliance Marine, he resigned after surviving the geth attack on Eden Prime. Love interest option for female Shepard.

[b]Thane Krios[/b] - A male drell assassin, rumored to be the most skilled in the galaxy. Unlike most assassins, who prefer to snipe their targets from a distance, Thane prefers to get up close and kill his target personally, utilizing a mixture of stealth, firearms, hand to hand combat and biotic abilities. Also the coolest *censored*ing character you have ever seen in about five years of gaming. Thane is a possible romantic interest for a female Shepard.

[b]Grunt[/b] - A genetically engineered krogan super soldier. Bred and educated in a tank, he was intended to exemplify the best traits of the krogan, and help reinvigorate his species.

[b]Jack[/b] - Also known as "Subject Zero." A notorious criminal whose crimes include piracy, kidnapping, vandalism and murder. She is also a biotic, possibly one of the most powerful human biotics alive, and considered so dangerous she was kept in stasis after she was caught. One of the love interest options for male Shepard.

[b]Mordin Solus[/b] - A salarian geneticist, professor, and a former operative of the Special Tasks Group, where he performed reconnaissance and participated in the modification of the genophage.

[b]Samara[/b] - A nearly thousand-year-old asari justicar, a member of an ancient monastic order following a strict honor code. Though she is skilled with weapons, Samara usually relies on her powerful biotic abilities.

[b]Zaeed Massani[/b] - A feared and respected bounty hunter and mercenary soldier. Free DLC character.

[b]Kasumi Goto[/b] - The galaxy's most enigmatic thief and has enemies everywhere, but only a few could put a face to her name. Paid DLC character for 560 Microsoft Points.

[u][b]The following characters were not confirmed before this game was released so I consider listing them and their details to be spoilers.[/b][/u]

[spoiler][b]Morinth[/b] - An asari Ardat-Yakshi and Samara's daughter, suffering from a rare asari genetic disorder which causes her to kill her mates while joining minds with them. In turn she becomes smarter, more powerful, and deadlier after each coupling. She has spent centuries as a fugitive from asari justice, surviving by her wits and cunning. The player can choose during Samara's loyalty mission which asari to kill.

[b]Legion[/b] - A unique geth mobile platform, designed to operate outside the Perseus Veil and interact with organics directly. To that purpose, it houses 1,183 geth programs, as opposed to the one hundred in other platforms, enabling it to operate independently and speak.

[b]Garrus Vakarian[/b] - Returning from the first game.

[b]Tali[/b] - Also returning from the first game.[/spoiler]

[b][u]Mass Effect 1 Importing[/b][/u]
If you have a completed save file from Mass Effect 1, you can choose to import your character. You will get some extra perks if you were max level in Mass Effect 1, got certain achievements, or were completely Paragon/Renegade. You also have the option at beginning of the game to change your Shepard's look or class as you see fit.

At this point know that the save game import system will carry over all your decisions and plot decisions from ME1 into ME2. Did you save the Council? Who survived Virmire? And how did you handle your most ardent fan? These are just a few things that we will see the direct result of. New Game+ (after much debate) will make a return to Mass Effect 2, and remember that choices in ME2 will carry on into the final entry of the trilogy, Mass Effect 3.

Here are some of the confirmed things that will definitely be carried into Mass Effect 2.

[spoiler][list][*] The decision to save either Kaidan or Ashley.
[*] Whether or not the player kills Wrex on Virmire.
[*] Whether or not the player decides to save the Citadel Council at the end of Mass Effect.
[*] The player's choice of love interest.
[*] Whether the player spares or destroys the Rachni Queen at Peak 15.
[*] The player's treatment of Conrad Verner.
[*] Whether or not the player completed the UNC: Asari Diplomacy sidequest. (This is the one where the diplomat Nassana Dantius in the Presidium asks you to save her sister from slavers, but it turns out that her sister IS the slaver and you wind up killing her for her.)
[*] Whether the player chose to allow the Alliance to conduct experiments on Nirali Bhatia's body.[/list][/spoiler]

[b][u]Dying - You best not be.[/b][/u]
The original teaser trailer said Shepard was killed in action. Part of the reason for this is to foreshadow the possibilities of ME2's outcome. In Mass Effect 2, it is possible for Commander Shepard and members of his team to die at the conclusion of the game's final mission. Throughout the middle of the game the player will be building up the team, squad loyalty, resources, information, and ship necessary to succeed in the final mission. Should the player enter the final mission unprepared they could end up with an ending where Shepard dies, members of his team die, or there is a total bloodbath where everyone dies. Should the player's Shepard die they will be unable to continue playing the game after the credits, and will be unable to import their character into Mass Effect 3. As with Shepard, death is final for all characters, and any that die during the ending will not be appearing in Mass Effect 3. Shepard's death will cause the player to be unable to import the save to Mass Effect 3.

[b][u]Downloadable Content[/b][/u]
Assuming you bought the game new, you get a Cerberus Network code which gives you access to lots of nice free DLC. If you didn't get the game new, don't worry. You can pay $15 worth of Microsoft Points to get into the Cerberus Network. There is also the following paid DLC:

[spoiler][center][img]http://img688.imageshack.us/img688/6785/54214686.jpg[/img][/center][/spoiler][/spoiler]

[center][img]http://img841.imageshack.us/img841/2150/me3logo.png[/img][/center]

[b][u]Quick Details[/b][/u]
[list][*]ME3 will end the Shephard story arc.
[*]The ME3 universe is going to be darker, but funnier at the same time.
[*]The mining mini-game won’t be abandoned completely.
[*]Save import will feature more variables and impact than ME2 had.
[*]Shepard will attempt to rally as many forces as he can against the Reapers.
[*]The Reapers have invaded Earth.
[*]London will be featured.
[*]There will be a bigger focus on RPG features, combat options, and complex enemies.
[*]Combat is deeper, faster, and more fluid than in Mass Effect 2.[/list]

[center]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=geTD0gWh8w0[/center]

[u][b]Setting[/b][/u]
In the final chapter of the trilogy, the Reapers have returned in force, and have begun their purge of the Galaxy, attacking the human home-world of Earth. Racing against time, Commander Shepard must rally the advanced races of the Galaxy to make one final stand, not only to save earth but to break a cycle that has continued for millions of years.

[center]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vTo_9xyl1LA[/center]

[u][b]Combat[/b][/u]
Combat in Mass Effect 3 has been radically changed and refined from Mass Effect 2, and further emphasis has been put on third-person shooter aspects to make the game more commercially viable. In a preview for IGN, editor Arthur Gies went so far as to say the game "plays like a shooter" and that "combat-wise, Mass Effect 3 is in an entirely different space" from the first two games.

The series' cover system has been improved so players no longer need to slide into cover and then hop over objects. Players will have more options for moving around the battlefield, including a refined sprint capability, combat rolling, and the use of climbable ladders. Players can also blindfire their weapons from covered positions, and have opportunities to shoot selected armor pieces and limbs off enemies. Moving and shooting, a previously "suicidal maneuver" in Mass Effect 2, will finally be a viable option because of a revised melee system. Players will be able to execute formidable punches and attacks, and instant melee kills will be introduced specific to each class; for example, by holding down the melee button, a soldier Shepard will deliver a killing blow with a tech-blade in his/her wrist armor. Actual, round, conventional grenades will also be available.

Mass Effect 3 plans to be the most difficult in the series, with increased artificial intelligence to challenge players and increase the sense of reward. Enemies no longer act as individuals as they did in the previous games, instead fighting and supporting each other in units. Enemies include 15-foot tall Cerberus mechs, assault troopers, and ninja-style shock troops, as well as Reaperized husks of all races and Reaper ships ranging from 500m to 2km long. Some changes will be made to already-existing class types; for example, Engineers will be able to build turrets.

[center]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=a6XPvkobW5E[/center]

[u][b]Other Details[/b][/u]
Decisions from Mass Effect and Mass Effect 2 will be imported into Mass Effect 3 to keep continuity within the series. Over 1,000 variables will be pulled to shape how players experience the final chapter. Unlike in Mass Effect 2, Commander Shepard will start the game with some powers. Upon finishing the game, there will be a New Game+ option that allows players to continue playing after the main story ends or start again with their finished Shepard and collect items they missed the first time around. If players achieved a love interest in both Mass Effect and Mass Effect 2, then there will be two love interests vying for their Shepard's attention in Mass Effect 3. This "love triangle" will be resolved by the end of the game.

Locations in Mass Effect 3 will include the Salarian homeworld Sur'Kesh, the Asari homeworld Thessia, the Turian homeworld Palaven, the Quarian homeworld Rannoch, a human mining base in a Martian crater, and a giant city on Earth representing the combination of Seattle and Vancouver. Players will also return to Tuchanka - the Krogan homeworld - and Illium.

Mass Effect 3 will have more RPG elements than Mass Effect 2. For the first time in the series, players will have skills that start along a single path and then splinter into two branches where they can select only one upgrade or the other along a sequence of possibilities. Players will also be able to customize their weapons with different scopes, mods, barrels and ammo types.

[center]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lBjoi5BiKoc[/center]

[center]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UhlEAyUfmpY[/center]

[Kat]

2010 GOTY

[blazea50]

http://xbox360.ign.com/dor/objects/14235013/mass-effect-2/videos/masseffect_in5min_spc_121509.html

Just for anyone who's thinking about buying this game but has not played the original Mass Effect, this video is the first Mass Effect game in five minutes.

[Killer mXk]

I'm almost done getting all the achievements in ME. I can't wait for ME2!

[-AzN-]

I'm thinking about getting this game it looks pretty good... Anyone know if their is cooperative play? Its also insane about how if you do or don't save Sheperd it will effect your Mass Effect 3 play.

[D.A.N.]

[quote name='-AzN-' date='24 January 2010 - 08:49 PM' timestamp='1264387791' post='7033635']
I'm thinking about getting this game it looks pretty good... Anyone know if their is cooperative play? Its also insane about how if you do or don't save Sheperd it will effect your Mass Effect 3 play.
[/quote]
There is no co-op, as games do not need them to be good.

That is my default reaction when people ask about multiplayer nowadays.

[-AzN-]

[quote name='D.A.N.' date='24 January 2010 - 09:52 PM' timestamp='1264387974' post='7033645']
[quote name='-AzN-' date='24 January 2010 - 08:49 PM' timestamp='1264387791' post='7033635']
I'm thinking about getting this game it looks pretty good... Anyone know if their is cooperative play? Its also insane about how if you do or don't save Sheperd it will effect your Mass Effect 3 play.
[/quote]
There is no co-op, as games do not need them to be good.

That is my default reaction when people ask about multiplayer nowadays.
[/quote]
O ok thanks.

[D.A.N.]

[quote name='Joerly?' date='24 January 2010 - 08:22 PM' timestamp='1264386163' post='7033583']
http://xbox360.ign.com/dor/objects/14235013/mass-effect-2/videos/masseffect_in5min_spc_121509.html

Just for anyone who's thinking about buying this game but has not played the original Mass Effect, this video is the first Mass Effect game in five minutes.
[/quote]
Haha, those five minute summaries are always fun.

[quote name='(Killer mXk!)' date='24 January 2010 - 08:41 PM' timestamp='1264387304' post='7033619']
I'm almost done getting all the achievements in ME. I can't wait for ME2!
[/quote]
Those achievements are so time consuming. I'm missing like four of the tech ability ones, Insanity Playthrough, and three Ally achievements. X_X

I added a video in the first post that displays the differences and exclusive abilities of each class.

[YKRG]

The ally achievements are crazy. You have to have the ally in your party when you complete 15 main missions and 45 sidequests. That is pretty much 75 percent of the game.

[D.A.N.]

[quote name='YKRG' date='24 January 2010 - 10:50 PM' timestamp='1264395030' post='7033893']
The ally achievements are crazy. You have to have the ally in your party when you complete 15 main missions and 45 sidequests. That is pretty much 75 percent of the game.
[/quote]
I know. It's particularly annoying to do with Liara for some reason. I had Ashley and Liara in a party and got it for Ashley before Virmire and then I did a shitload more and beat the game and nothing popped up for Liara. =_=

There aren't any ally achievements in Mass Effect 2. Instead there are individual achievements for gaining the loyalty of each party member, which sound like they don't rely on you having to keep certain people in your party for a long time. I don't know.

[url=http://www.xbox360achievements.org/game/mass-effect-2/achievements/]Here[/url] are the Mass Effect 2 achievements, if anybody was wondering. There aren't any spoilers in the achievements, if you were wondering. Overall they seem easier and less time consuming than they were in the first game.

[Zander]

[quote name='Kat' date='25 January 2010 - 01:49 AM' timestamp='1264384156' post='7033493']
2010 GOTY
[/quote]

Bioshock 2 shall be claiming that in my mind.

I just didn't see the buzz for Mass Effect. I bought it for a tenner (at the time, I thought it was a bargain, considering the reviews) and started the campaign. Honestly the first time I moved the guy I knew I wasn't going to like it. I think I only ever managed to get to the second level. Haven't played it since.

[Killer mXk]

Bioshock 2 won't be half as good as Bioshock.

just saying

[Anti-Sӓint]

I will feel proud trading in MW2 for this game.

[Killer mXk]

[quote name='Anti-Säint' date='25 January 2010 - 12:15 AM' timestamp='1264396527' post='7033928']
I will feel proud trading in MW2 for this game.
[/quote]

Son

I am proud

[D.A.N.]

[quote name='Anti-Säint' date='24 January 2010 - 11:15 PM' timestamp='1264396527' post='7033928']
I will feel proud trading in MW2 for this game.
[/quote]
If I had the means, I would give you a trophy for it, with Shepard snapping Captain Price's neck.

Because he can.

I changed the "They Fixed Some Shit" to Gameplay Changes and added in details about the new health system, and button mapping. Also posted details on the deep armor customization. I like the sound of that feature very much.

[astrowulf]

[img]http://img714.imageshack.us/img714/2974/omgy.png[/img]

[YKRG]

I got the game for 38.50 new off of Amazon thanks to the ECA.

Xbox.com early this morning around 6 a.m. had a bunch of DLC (Guns/Armor) online for free. All you had to do was sign into your Live account online and download it. It would go straight to your 360. Microsoft quickly realized what had happened and stopped it. A decent amount of people were able to get all of it.

[D.A.N.]

[quote name='YKRG' date='25 January 2010 - 02:32 PM' timestamp='1264451532' post='7034966']
I got the game for 38.50 new off of Amazon thanks to the ECA.

Xbox.com early this morning around 6 a.m. had a bunch of DLC (Guns/Armor) online for free. All you had to do was sign into your Live account online and download it. It would go straight to your 360. Microsoft quickly realized what had happened and stopped it. A decent amount of people were able to get all of it.
[/quote]
Haha. That reminds me of when the marketplace had Gears of War 2's giant map pack bundle on the marketplace early and for half price on accident.

I snagged that shit like a ninja. >.>

[YKRG]

[quote name='D.A.N.' date='25 January 2010 - 08:37 PM' timestamp='1264451862' post='7034985']
[quote name='YKRG' date='25 January 2010 - 02:32 PM' timestamp='1264451532' post='7034966']
I got the game for 38.50 new off of Amazon thanks to the ECA.

Xbox.com early this morning around 6 a.m. had a bunch of DLC (Guns/Armor) online for free. All you had to do was sign into your Live account online and download it. It would go straight to your 360. Microsoft quickly realized what had happened and stopped it. A decent amount of people were able to get all of it.
[/quote]
Haha. That reminds me of when the marketplace had Gears of War 2's giant map pack bundle on the marketplace early and for half price on accident.

I snagged that shit like a ninja. >.>
[/quote]

DEAL IS DEAD

Copy and paste these 9 links to your browser.

Mass Effect 2: Inferno Armor

The Inferno armor has a VI dedicated to recognizing signs of stress and medical trauma. This application helps assess soldiers, but can be useful in any high-risk situations. The Inferno's microframe computer also manages biotic amp and omni-tool power, and microservos help the wearer's movements to counteract the armor's weight. Negotiation Bonus +10% Tech and Biotic Power Damage +10% Storm Speed +10%

Mass Effect 2: Blood Dragon Armor

Created for Earth's Urban Combat Championship league, this set of armor has undergone more field testing than those of modern militaries. The chest and shoulder piece bears the logo of the Edmonton Blood Dragons, and the inside of the armor bears the signatures of the entire team. When and how the Illusive Man got his hands on the armor is unknown. Increases power damage by 15%. Increases shield strength by 10%.

Mass Effect 2: Collectors' Weapon and Armor

The Collectors' weapon uses the same principles as a human assault rifle, but its organic components clearly set it apart. Its ammunition resembles pellets of metallic enamel that strip shields off enemies with deadly efficiency. The Collectors' armor is flexible and even tougher than ballistic fibers. Its organic construction allows it to be self-healing. Regeneration Bonus +10%. Storm Speed +10%. Health +20%.

Mass Effect 2: Terminus Weapon and Armor

The M-490 Blackstorm Singularity gun encases particles of matter within a high-powered mass-increasing field. This creates a gravitational singularity that draws enemies inward for a short time before exploding. Terminus armor is environmentally sealed with an independent air supply for use in space and extreme planetary conditions. Increases storm speed by 10%. Increase shields by 15%. Increases all weapon's reserve ammo by 10%.

Mass Effect 2: Normandy Crash Site

Shepard discovers the location of the Normandy Crash Site, an emotionally charged and reflective moment for Shepard as he is on a mission of salvage and recovery.

Mass Effect 2: Recon Hood

A hood issued to covert action teams. Ballistic-mesh fabric and composite ceramic plating provide necessary armor, and the integral air filter helps in hostile environments. Weapon damage + 5%

Mass Effect 2: M-29 Incisor Sniper Rifle

The M-29 Incisor rifle is one of a new wave of military and police sniper rifles designed to overload active defenses such as shields. Firing three shots with each pull of the trigger, the Incisor's burst is so fast that all three rounds will be in the target by the time the barrel has moved a millimeter, increasing its stopping power without sacrificing accuracy.

Mass Effect 2: Umbra Visor

A next-generation night-vision device that assists targeting. By detecting the focal point of the wearer's eyes and enhancing the image at that location, the visor helps direct a biotic power or a shot from an omni-tool exactly where the wearer is looking. Increases power damage by 5%

Mass Effect 2: Sentry Interface

his visor works with the Sentry system, a software application that optimizes an armor suit's microframe computer. When the Sentry system is running, more power can be devoted to shield management. Increases shield strength by 5%

Each one will link you to a page on Xbox.com. Make sure you're signed in (use the same email that's on your Xbox 360).

Click "download" and a popup will come up showing you can download them for free. Do it. In your queue you'll see them listed, like this:



Now just turn on your Xbox 360. It's download them and you can view them in your Active Downloads.

[Anti-Sӓint]

[quote name='YKRG' date='25 January 2010 - 02:32 PM' timestamp='1264451532' post='7034966']
I got the game for 38.50 new off of Amazon thanks to the ECA.

Xbox.com early this morning around 6 a.m. had a bunch of DLC (Guns/Armor) online for free. All you had to do was sign into your Live account online and download it. It would go straight to your 360. Microsoft quickly realized what had happened and stopped it. A decent amount of people were able to get all of it.
[/quote]

I saw that and was about to download them but then I thought I could get banned and pussied out of it.

[YKRG]

[quote name='Anti-Säint' date='25 January 2010 - 09:12 PM' timestamp='1264453947' post='7035100']
[quote name='YKRG' date='25 January 2010 - 02:32 PM' timestamp='1264451532' post='7034966']
I got the game for 38.50 new off of Amazon thanks to the ECA.

Xbox.com early this morning around 6 a.m. had a bunch of DLC (Guns/Armor) online for free. All you had to do was sign into your Live account online and download it. It would go straight to your 360. Microsoft quickly realized what had happened and stopped it. A decent amount of people were able to get all of it.
[/quote]

I saw that and was about to download them but then I thought I could get banned and pussied out of it.
[/quote]


How could they ban you for them making a mistake?

[Anti-Sӓint]

[quote name='YKRG' date='25 January 2010 - 03:32 PM' timestamp='1264455163' post='7035158']
[quote name='Anti-Säint' date='25 January 2010 - 09:12 PM' timestamp='1264453947' post='7035100']
[quote name='YKRG' date='25 January 2010 - 02:32 PM' timestamp='1264451532' post='7034966']
I got the game for 38.50 new off of Amazon thanks to the ECA.

Xbox.com early this morning around 6 a.m. had a bunch of DLC (Guns/Armor) online for free. All you had to do was sign into your Live account online and download it. It would go straight to your 360. Microsoft quickly realized what had happened and stopped it. A decent amount of people were able to get all of it.
[/quote]

I saw that and was about to download them but then I thought I could get banned and pussied out of it.
[/quote]


How could they ban you for them making a mistake?
[/quote]

I know. I just hesitated like a bitch. I do that a lot.

[-AzN-]

God Im excited for this game...

[D.A.N.]

Here are some review quotes about the game.

"Mistakes you made in the past could come back to haunt you. You’ll see the aftermath to decisions you thought right at the time."

"The situations you are asked to dictate are not as black and white as the first game. Doing what you think is right at the time could backfire later, or lead to a teammate shutting down emotionally."

"We can't do anything but to celebrate another masterpiece from Bioware, a game that has never been so close to perfection. If you have not upgraded your PC yet, it's time to do it; if you you needed an excuse to buy an Xbox 360, now you have one. Not to play this game would be crazy."

"My journey with Commander Shepherd opened up a new view of what this form of entertainment can do, and allowed me to emotionally connect (and care) with the virtual characters on my television screen. The dialogue, story progression, graphics, soundtrack, controls, and presentation are all well above what so many other games of this genre are offering these days... We have never given a perfect score, until now."

Mass Effect currently has a 96 Metascore over 41 reviews, with reviews coming in every few minutes. The only complaints so far are the loading times, repetitive minigames, less RPG elements (in weapon add-ons), and technical bugs. The biggest improvements being cited are the new combat system (as expected) and the squad AI and customization. Everything else that was good is just better now. The cutscenes feel more natural and are more cinematic with less static camera angles. The characters also show a much wider range of emotion and seem less like a trip down Uncanny Valley which I felt was too common in the original. Relationships between Shepard and the characters are also much more focused on and it makes everyone in your Mass Effect 2 squad feel more human, or uhh...alien? Well, real is what I was shooting for. The original had lots of cool moments but it felt like the squad took a significant backseat to the main events itself. In Mass Effect 2, the way your squad feels about you and how many of them are loyal ultimately plays it's hand in the outcome of the game and you and your squad's life itself.

[Anti-Sӓint]

Shit I can't wait for Thursday. I can't get it today since I gotta get my car fixed first...*censored* life can suck.