The video games of the Mass Effect series present players with a richly detailed, plausible yet fictional ‘Mass Effect’ universe. I have chosen to discuss the second in a planned trilogy of games, Mass Effect 2, which appears somewhat less traditional and more elaborate artistically when compared to other common RPGs. As a video game set in outer space, it is more akin to other space exploration games than to others in the genre, and as a mature video game with RPG elements, there are cinematic devices being used that are more like those found in popular movies than those employed in traditional role-playing games. Although such traits are seemingly detrimental, Mass Effect 2 is artistically noteworthy and highlights important connections with film and with the idea of developing characters in a traditional narrative medium.
“Players soon meet the entire cast of games.” But walking through space stations to find interesting characters to interact with is only one way that one meets the entire cast of characters in Mass Effect 2. Any gamer new to the series would be at a loss about who most of these characters are. However, Mass Effect 2 is not the first in the Mass Effect series, and from experience in other games in the genre, prospective players have expectations. Certain advantages are afforded to the developer because those interested in the game, or those who want to learn more about it, could explore various resources while they wait for the game itself to come out. Then they could piece together a great deal of plot points before even playing the game.
Overview of the Game
One of the most infrequently studied aspects of video games is narrative. This text explores the themes and narrative techniques in the frequently studied commercial game Mass Effect 2, a science fiction role-playing game considered to be one of the best developed in terms of narrative. It explores issues common to video games and the video game industry, such as narrative as a driving force within a video game, how video games’ typical narrative techniques work differently from other media, and the nature of player choice. However, it also explores issues that are of deeper interest to those who study science fiction, such as the ability of video games to engage ethical issues by allowing a high degree of player choice, both by allowing players to define their characters’ ethical systems as well as deciding how to treat the game’s characters. Mass Effect 2 is set in a world of the future in which players engage in role-playing as a “commander” who embarks on a quest to avenge his own death. Though the themes and worldviews of the game carry a conservative message and imply a dualistic metanarrative where right and wrong can be simple decisions, the narrative world is incredibly complex and open-ended because of the video game’s ability to allow players considerable character development and choice.
Overview of the Game The video game Mass Effect 2 was developed and released in 2010 for the Xbox 360 and PC. It is a role-playing game set in a science fiction world that asks players to make choices based on a variety of in-game prompts. As a role-playing game, players are given some control over the ethical system or morality of their lead character, Commander Shephard, and are typically asked to make choices based on this morality. The first Mass Effect game both asks players to size up or make offhanded revelations about the characters and to choose sides. These choices carry over into the play experience of future games. The choices made in the game are open-ended and are determined through a variety of systems. These usually include dialog choices and actions, but they are tallied through a specific engine which keeps track of decisions made in most of the game’s dialog interactions. For example, a player’s decisions might unlock a specific action in the heat of combat or open up the ability to develop a convincing peace or capitulation treaty with a group of enemy non-player characters at an event at the end of the game.
Development and Release
In an interview, the lead writer of Mass Effect 2 stated that the developers “didn’t make such a big deal” out of the more mature themes found in the game. For the developers, the focus rested solely on “pushing [their] brown and gray space-marine shooter” to the point where it would be taken seriously. Making use of character development as a tool to tell a more compelling story about people’s struggles turned out to be a superb way for the team to strengthen both the importance of the characters inside the game and the themes of the game in totality. The story as delivered features one of the deepest and most diverse casts in video game history and tells a tale about suicide, depression, and hope against all odds. After being given a second chance in life, the central protagonist needs to assemble a team of specialists to embark on a suicide mission in order to save the human race from annihilation. Mass Effect 2 continued to use a cover system for easier shooting but also implemented a more refined and tactical combat system that allowed for the use of a variety of different weapons, ammo types, and squad abilities. This also meant that the hit points used in the previous game were scrapped in favor of shields, barriers, armor, and health. As a real space-mane spectacle, the game also included an improvement to space travel, a much-improved morality system, and a series of loyalty missions required to both finishing the game and saving all possible squad mates. The game itself was released as a follow-up to the highly praiseworthy title that converted it into one of the most important projects.
Characters and Relationships
A Diverse and Memorable Cast
Mass Effect 2 features one of the most iconic ensemble casts in gaming. Each character is meticulously crafted, with unique personalities, backstories, and motivations. Notable squad members include Garrus Vakarian, a turian sharpshooter; Tali’Zorah, a tech-savvy quarian; and Mordin Solus, a brilliant yet morally complex salarian scientist.
Loyalty Missions
A standout feature of the game is the introduction of loyalty missions. These optional side quests allow players to delve into each squad member’s personal struggles, strengthening their bond with Shepard. Completing loyalty missions not only enriches the narrative but also increases the chances of survival during the final mission.
Romance Options
The game also expands on romance options, allowing players to build deeper relationships with certain characters. These relationships add an emotional layer to the story, further immersing players in the Mass Effect universe.
Gameplay Mechanics
Combat Improvements
Compared to its predecessor, Mass Effect 2 introduced more dynamic and polished combat mechanics. The game features a cover-based shooting system, a variety of weapons, and biotic powers that allow for strategic gameplay. Each squad member has unique abilities that players can utilize, encouraging teamwork and tactical planning.
Streamlined RPG Elements
While some criticized the reduction in traditional RPG mechanics, such as inventory management and character customization, others praised the streamlined approach for making the game more accessible. Skill trees were simplified, and the focus shifted toward action-oriented gameplay and narrative depth.
Morality System
The Paragon and Renegade morality system, a hallmark of the series, returns in Mass Effect 2. Players’ choices influence the story and character interactions, allowing for a range of outcomes and ensuring high replayability.
Visuals and Soundtrack
Stunning Visuals
Mass Effect 2 was a visual masterpiece for its time. The game’s art direction brought the galaxy to life, from the cyberpunk-inspired streets of Illium to the eerie, organic interiors of the Collector Base. The detailed character models and cinematic cutscenes added a layer of immersion rarely seen in games of that era.
Iconic Soundtrack
The soundtrack, composed by Jack Wall and Sam Hulick, perfectly complements the game’s tone. Tracks like “Suicide Mission” and “The Illusive Man” remain iconic, enhancing the emotional impact of key moments.
Critical and Commercial Success
Critical Acclaim
Upon release, Mass Effect 2 received universal acclaim, with many critics praising its storytelling, character development, and gameplay improvements. It earned numerous Game of the Year awards and is often cited as one of the greatest video games ever made.
Commercial Performance
The game was also a commercial success, selling over two million copies within its first week. Its popularity helped establish Mass Effect as a flagship franchise for BioWare and Electronic Arts.
Lasting Impact and Legacy
Mass Impact 2 set another norm for account driven games, affecting endless titles in the years that followed. Its mix of activity, narrating, and player decision stays a benchmark in the business. The game’s prosperity made ready for Mass Impact 3 and hardened the set of three’s place in mainstream society.
In 2021, the arrival of the Mass Impact Unbelievable Release brought a remastered variant of the set of three to present day stages, presenting another age of players to the legendary adventure.
Conclusion
Mass Effect 2 is something beyond a game; it is a demonstration of the force of narrating in intelligent media. Its convincing characters, holding story, and creative mechanics keep on enthralling players over 10 years after its delivery. For fanatics of sci-fi and vivid pretending encounters, Mass Impact 2 remaining parts a fundamental excursion into the stars.