Mass Effect Thoughts

[Professor S]

I thought I'd post a new thread as the other is quite old.

I just started playing this game, and so far it has been a transcendant experience. This is the type of game that permanently changes things. I am only about an hour and a half in the game and I can already begin seeing how my choices now are going to effect not only my immediate future, but large plot points in the far future. It shows how a carefully planned choice system can be implemented to create a live world. This isn't sandbox gaming, as sandbox games tend to pause real life while you putz around and not punish you for poor decisions. This is consequence gaming, where a rushed or poorly chosen comments can greatly impact your future.

The graphics and animations are just amazing as well. My favorite part is the facial construction system. I never expected my created character to look so lifelike. Normally created characters look far inferior to developer creations, but I have to say that I think my guy looks even grittier and "more real".

Finally, there are some drawbacks. I'm disappointed by the special ability system. Its uninuitive and clumsy. These are moves I WANT to use repeatedly and the game makes it relatively difficult for me to do so, which is a shame.

Once again, these are thoughts based on a small amount of gameplay. I'll post more as I move through the game.