Farewell.
PlatformOVERALL
Xbox 3609.00
Overall 9.00
Mass Effect 3 marks the end of the projected game trilogy of Commander Shepard's efforts to save the galaxy, it also shows the final stage of evolution of its constantly improving combat system, and it brings the story arc to a shattering conclusion.

Its gameplay evolution ends up with a very fluid third person shooter mechanic that it's deceptively simple, but also more than just the sum of its parts. Cover mechanics and dodging maneuvers mix perfectly with improved AI routines that make enemies flank you and outmaneuver you at every single corner of the game numerous' standoffs. Gun customization system is a step up from the second game and gives leeway for different strategies depending on your playstyle, and powers remain a valuable asset to your offensive/defensive arsenal.

Many of the characters introduced in the previous games return in triumphant and sometimes moving ways, as the consequences of the choices you made previously start to add weight to your playthrough. It's not really a cheerful game, and I found its story and overarching theme to be much more grim than the previous two titles. It's more of a goodbye than anything else, and while it doesn't work with all characters, when it hits you it hits you hard.

Its ending might have been very controversial, and there is ample room for criticizing it, however, the concepts underlying the technical mess caused by questionable writing decisions are much simpler to understand, and they hit much closer to home because of that. In the end, what stays with you the most is the feeling of a finished journey, with companions you grew to care about and have to say goodbye to. I can live with that.
Posted by SteelAttack Tue, 10 Apr 2012 18:16:33
 
Tue, 10 Apr 2012 18:25:30
Nice write up Steel. I agree with everything you said.

Whether people liked the end or not, its still an incredible game with some of the best moments in gaming...so I hope people on both sides can stop whining about it and enjoy.
 
Wed, 11 Apr 2012 04:14:47
Very well said steel. Do more of these.
 
Fri, 13 Apr 2012 04:39:56
"In the end, what stays with you the most is the feeling of a finished journey, with companions you grew to care about and have to say goodbye to."

Too bad I said goodbye to mine in Mass Effect 2.
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