Mass Effect 2 Review

Mass Effect 2 is a game that achieves the impossible. Typically, video game sequels seem like a retread or a pale shadow of the original.

However, Mass Effect 2 is actually much better than its predecessor — and the first Mass Effect is legendary.

And now that Mass Effect 3 and Mass Effect: Andromeda have come out, it seems clear that Mass Effect 2 is the best entry in the entire series. Here’s why.

Combat: Evolved

When people praise the first Mass Effect, what they are really praising is the ace storytelling and amazing vocal talent. But the actual combat in that game was slow and tedious — the worst part of playing the thing!

In Mass Effect 2, the combat is much more visceral and traditional. In fact, it’s basically Gears of War, complete with a cover system. And once you get used to balancing guns and biotic abilities, combat in this game is more than “improved:” it’s downright fun.

If this is your first Mass Effect, you may take the combat for granted. But for veteran players, this is a serious and welcome upgrade.