MASS EFFECT 2

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PC version reviewed.

GAMEPLAY
Combat is massively improved over the not so great combat of the first game.

Interrupts bring a fun new edge to conversations.

Dropping the open-worldish segments and replacing those mostly boring and terrible side-quests from the first game with much more tightly designed and detailed side missions does wonders for this game. The much more linear approach is so much more immersive, appealing and fun. It's like the first game has had all the rough edges removed and the real potential has been found.

STORY
The final mission is a wonderful combination of everything that Mass Effect strives to be. Everything you've done in preparation will be felt and everything you decide for your squad will have repercussions. You can succeed at your mission with flying colours or fail so badly that you can't continue the story into Mass Effect 3. The final mission is intense, satisfying and simply an incredible spectacle. There are few better levels than this one in gaming.

Most of the squad (10 characters, 12 with DLC) are fascinating characters who are really well written. You'll want to learn more about them and what makes them who they are and why they want to join you.

GRAPHICS

SOUND
A very good soundtrack that really enhances some parts of the game. "The End Run" and "The Normandy Reborn" are two of the real highlights. The voice acting is pretty great too, helping to create some of the really engaging characters.

VALUE FOR MONEY

OVERALL