The epic science fiction action RPG has now turned a decade old. Mass Effect 2, developed by Bioware, was released ten years ago today.
Mass Effect 2 first released on January 26, 2010, for the PC and Xbox 360, then a year later came to the PlayStation 3. Even after a decade, it is still regarded as one of the pinnacles of modern video games.
While fans loved the first Mass Effect, it was not until the second game did the series truly gain mainstream attention and praise. Not only was it a tight action RPG, but the game took into affect what choices you were making in conversations with other characters.
Also, the game took note in terms of the relationships you had with each of your crew members. Each of the team members was deeply fleshed out and personal character, and made the moments with them more than just simple interactions.
Even for a game of such high caliber, at its core, it was a science fiction story that cared about its world and characters. What makes the decade since Mass Effect 2 so melancholy is what has become of the franchise.
After Mass Effect 2, the Mass Effect franchise has never reached the same heights. Mass Effect 3, even with the commotion surrounding the different endings, still was a fun game but never at the same level as the second one.
What Became of Mass Effect
More of the pain of Mass Effect has been with the last game in the franchise. Mass Effect Andromeda hoped to bring the franchise to modern consoles with a new story and characters. Still, the technical problems and lackluster characters effectively grounded the franchise for the foreseeable future.
The sun has set on Mass Effect for now, but after ten years, Mass Effect 2 is still regarded as one of the best games of all time. The legacy of Mass Effect 2 is still seen in games everywhere, whether that is an independent character-driven game or a AAA action game that incorporates classic RPG elements.
Those who have never played Mass Effect 2 can right now get it for only $5 on Steam in the Lunar Year sale.
