In this playthrough, the scene shifted from the seedy bar to medical complex under siege. This is the very beginning of the game, allowing us to see just how the second instalment starts. Without spoiling too much, we'll say that it doesn't start quietly, that's for sure. What was most surprising was the revelation that one of the earliest rumours associated with this game is actually true. Sort of. Bioware have often been hailed as the masters of story-telling, and you know what? We're beginning to think it's true.
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In recent times, a general divide has started to appear amongst gaming 'styles', much like in films. Often split between more Hollywood/AAA titles and the more in-depth/low key titles, Mass Effect 2 is to RPG's what Modern Warfare 2 is to shooters. Whilst there are some very valid arguments against hyper-realistic games that are just driven by action, Mass Effect 2 still manages to keep itself grounded in the story, and in the world it created. As Producer Adrien Cho told us in the interview that accompanies this preview, Mass Effect is more about pure science fiction, as opposed to the more grander operatic franchises like Star Wars or Star Trek. (He also said Mass Effect 2 is the greatest game they've ever made, but who doesn't like to toot their own horn?)
One thing's for sure: even from the onset it's clear that Mass Effect 2 is strides ahead of the original. From the superior graphics, to the enhanced game world, new abilities and items, and the story, Bioware has pulled no punches in trying to deliver a top notch experience. Granted, we only managed to play on the PC version, but even in observing others playing the 360 iteration, we were still very impressed.
One of the most important features Bioware has been promoting is the fact that you can import characters from the first game. This means that everything from your character's looks, to the teammates he kept alive, to the other far reaching choices he (or she) made will be carried over to the next game. This is no gimmick either. From the very first cut scene, those changes are felt, and thus shape the game as it unfolds. No doubt the choices you make in this game, combined with the first games choices, will then be carried over to the final act. A challenging feat to be sure, but if anyone can do it, it's Bioware.
Still, despite all this praise, there is just the smallest hint of doubt in our minds. It's already been confirmed that you will need to choose a new team, but the reasons for such seem a bit weak, as is a few of the reunion scenes with former teammates (especially considering what happens at the beginning - don't worry, you'll know what I mean when you play it). These are more niggles than real flaws in the game, but everyone holds within their minds a picture of what they feel should happen. Mass Effect, despite taking lengths to make it possible for you to shape the story, is no different.
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The PC version handles fairly well, although to be honest the WASD control style was just ever so slightly fiddly, and hurt my hands after a while. What was also slightly worrying was that the PC code kept crashing, but with any luck that will be fixed by the time of launch. Aside from that, combat is still very fun, ducking, using teamwork and abilities... all these little things are back in full force, and allow you to take on some pretty ridiculous odds. As you already know, the weapon sets have been improved, and we had a chance to play around with some of the new players during our playthrough. We hope you found them as satisfying as we did.
When it comes to a game like Mass Effect, it is as much about the little things as it is about the sweeping gestures. You can tell that Bioware really have tried to improve every aspect of the game - even the hacker mini-games have been improved (we had to ask what to do for one of them, as it was fairly complicated). The only danger that exists at the moment is Mass Effect 2 possibly being crushed by its own hype. It's happened before, and it will probably happen again, but if there's one game that doesn't deserve it, it would be this one.
Mass Effect 2 will be released for Xbox 360 and PC on January 26th for North America, and January 29th for Europe.
