Bioware's much lauded Mass Effect series has been generally well received since the release of the first game in 2007. With the imminent release of Mass Effect 3 (currently said to be looking at a March 2012 release), fans can't wait. But what unique aspects made the Mass Effect series so highly praised? But what elevates it beyond the likes of Max Payne 3? See below.
Perhaps one of the most interesting parts of Mass Effect is its sophisticated dialogue and morality system. The radial command menu from which you choose these options is also an opportunity for you to make decisions that affect your alignment. In regards to alignment, Commander Shepard has both Paragon and Renegade bars. During conversations Shepard can perform both Renegade and Paragon actions (or else say them), increasing each of these separate bars respectively. This means, for example, that your Shepard can usually exhibit the characteristics of a Paragon yet still have a streak of Renegade. Games such as Dead Island certainly don't go into this much depth!
The incredibly well thought out setting of Mass Effect is also a much lauded feature. The games feature exotic new planets, astounding technology (such as the kind mentioned in the series' title that makes faster-than-light travel possible) and more interesting alien species than you can shake a space stick at (yet still they still play Madden 12). While the asari Liara T'Soni is probably the most well known alien in the series, one cannot forget other similarly iconic races such as the quarians or turians. Liara, a potential romantic interest for Commander Shepard, has been around since the first game. Liara is pureblooded, asari culture looking down on those with two asari parents as they are meant to mix with other species. Quarians, perhaps the second most recognisable Mass Effect race, are best identified by their community-based culture and iconic enviro-suits. These are a necessity for the quarian people due to their incredibly weak immune systems.
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