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Mass Effect - Cosmos: The terminal boondocks.
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New Mass Effect 2 website.
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First FAQ list stolen directly from the website:
New FAQ stolen directly from the BioWare forums:
Casey Hudson blogged some shit. More direct answers so some FAQs.
(Robert) Preston Watamaniuk, ME Lead Designer, has this to say on New Game+. (Scroll Down).
Here's the old OP.
Going to reserve this space for ME2 info. Relevant ME1 info added as needed.
Full E3 Trailer
E3 Promo Trailer
ME2 Preview Trailer
First Teaser Trailer
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Problems with Therum? Solution in the spoiler.
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First FAQ list stolen directly from the website:
1.0 Is Commander Shepard Alive?
Commander Shepard is the main playable character in Mass Effect 2, but Shepard’s death is a central theme in the story, especially since the Commander is preparing for what can only be described as a suicide mission.
1.1: How will our saved games from Mass Effect 1 work for Mass Effect 2?
If you finished Mass Effect 1 and continue from your savegame, you will see the consequences of your decisions from the first moments of Mass Effect 2. And throughout the game you will see the results of choices you made in Mass Effect 1, both large and small.
1.2: What if I didn’t play Mass Effect 1, or didn’t keep my savegame?
Mass Effect 2 starts with an introduction sequence which, in combination with interactive decisions made by the player, introduces new players to the storyline and establishes a “canon” backstory.
1.3: What DRM will you use for Mass Effect 2?
We will make an announcement about DRM at a later date.
1.4: What if I have multiple saved games?
You will be asked to pick a specific save game to import each time you start a new game of ME2.
1.5: If a character died in Mass Effect 1 will they come back in Mass Effect 2?
No – they are dead!
1.6: What characters from Mass Effect 1 will come back for Mass Effect 2?
If you watch the various trailers and videos we have and will be releasing, you will start to see some familiar faces that are returning for the second game.
1.7: What improvements or advancements have been made for Mass Effect 2?
Mass Effect 2 incorporates improvements to nearly every aspect of the game, in areas such as combat and AI, space exploration, and technical systems such as area transitions, frame rates, and texture loading. All of these are incorporated into the overall game design, including a new planetary exploration vehicle.
1.8: Will the romances from Mass Effect 1 continue in Mass Effect 2?
Part of telling a great action / adventure story is having a love interest to give deeper meaning and character development to the relationships. So much like in the original Mass Effect, you will be able to develop relationships into love interests over the course of the game.
1.9: Will there be new romances to pursue?
Yes. You may see an appearance of your love interest from Mass Effect 1, and there will be completely new characters that can be developed into the love interest for Mass Effect 2.
1.10: Is combat going to be changed at all?
The overall concept of combat is very much the same, but every aspect has been polished and improved. You still command a squad of 3 characters with incredible special abilities. But many improvements have been made to give you better real-time tactical control of your squad as well as making the shooting controls much more fluid and precise. Location-based damage (head shots and blasting pieces off enemies), new physics-based powers, and a new cover system make combat much more spectacular and intense.
1.11: Will there be any new weapons in Mass Effect 2?
Yes! Players will have a large variety of new weapons to use including a new system of Heavy Weapons.
1.12: Will there be hand to hand combat in Mass Effect 2?
Commander Shepard will have melee attacks he can use against enemies that get too close.
1.13: Is Mass Effect 2 still coming for the 360 first or will it come out for the PC at the same time?
We will release details about release timing at a later date.
1.14: Will there be a PS3 version of Mass Effect 1 and 2?
Mass Effect 2 is planned for the PC and Xbox 360.
1.15: Will there be any new biotic, tech, or soldier abilities in Mass Effect 2?
Absolutely – stay tuned for more videos, screens and features that will reveal some of those.
1.16: Will the Normandy return in Mass Effect 2?
The Normandy plays a major role in Mass Effect 2.
New FAQ stolen directly from the BioWare forums:
General
Can I play Mass Effect 2 if I didn't play Mass Effect?
Mass Effect 2 has been designed to be a standalone game. If you have played Mass Effect, you will benefit from the save game carry over and character knowledge. However the intense combat, intriguing storyline and the sheer beauty of the character and level design will ensure a great experience whether you have played the first game or not.
Is Shepard dead?
Commander Shepard is the main playable character in Mass Effect 2, however his death is a major part of the game.
Will my character carry over from ME1?
The choices you made in the first Mass Effect will have impact in the storyline of Mass Effect 2. Certain characters will carry over depending on the choices you made and the relationships you had with the characters from the previous game.
If my character from Mass Effect was at the maximum skill level how will I be able to restart a new game in Mass Effect 2? Will my skills or powers carry over?
The choices you made in the first Mass Effect will have impact in the storyline of Mass Effect 2. Certain characters will carry over depending on the choices you made and the relationships you had with the characters from the previous game. If you start with a save game from Mass Effect, your character's level will be appropriate to the difficulty level where you begin in Mass Effect 2.
Is Shepard still a specter? If so, why is he partnering with Cerberus?
Shepard is still a Spectre, but a lot of things have changed as of ME2 and why Shepard ends up working for Cerberus is itself an interesting part of the story that we don’t want to spoil for you.
Story
Mass Effect 2 has been designed to be a standalone game. If you have played Mass Effect, you will benefit from the save game carry over and character knowledge. However the intense combat, intriguing storyline and the sheer beauty of the character and level design will ensure a great experience whether you have played the first game or not.
Is Shepard dead?
Commander Shepard is the main playable character in Mass Effect 2, however his death is a major part of the game.
Will my character carry over from ME1?
The choices you made in the first Mass Effect will have impact in the storyline of Mass Effect 2. Certain characters will carry over depending on the choices you made and the relationships you had with the characters from the previous game.
If my character from Mass Effect was at the maximum skill level how will I be able to restart a new game in Mass Effect 2? Will my skills or powers carry over?
The choices you made in the first Mass Effect will have impact in the storyline of Mass Effect 2. Certain characters will carry over depending on the choices you made and the relationships you had with the characters from the previous game. If you start with a save game from Mass Effect, your character's level will be appropriate to the difficulty level where you begin in Mass Effect 2.
Is Shepard still a specter? If so, why is he partnering with Cerberus?
Shepard is still a Spectre, but a lot of things have changed as of ME2 and why Shepard ends up working for Cerberus is itself an interesting part of the story that we don’t want to spoil for you.
How does Mass Effect 2 start if I have save games?
The beginning of Mass Effect 2 starts differently depending on how you played the first Mass Effect. The multiple ending possibilities, the bigger choices you made about characters, such as who lived or died are all decisions that had a long-term impact. And that's the real fun of playing from your saved game from Mass Effect 1 into Mass Effect 2 is that those choices you made are there. It's the world the way you left it.
Do the choices I make really affect the outcome of the story?
The choices you make will have a direct impact on how the story plays out. Your actions can have brutal consequences. Important characters can die.
Why is Mass Effect 2 a "darker second act"?
In Mass Effect, you repelled an invasion of Reapers – a race of ancient machines that want to harvest all organic civilization. But the Reapers are still out there. Humans are being abducted all over the galaxy, and you’re working with a shadowy pro-human group called Cerberus to find out why. This plot line and the intensity of the action naturally lends itself to a darker second chapter.
Why a trilogy? How are you going to maintain the story through all 3 chapters?
We wanted to tell an interactive story over the course of three games. So the choices you make can affect the broader story in the trilogy. There is a high level story arc that we will maintain through the trilogy and you control how the outcomes play out and who the lead characters will be.
Character Relationships
The beginning of Mass Effect 2 starts differently depending on how you played the first Mass Effect. The multiple ending possibilities, the bigger choices you made about characters, such as who lived or died are all decisions that had a long-term impact. And that's the real fun of playing from your saved game from Mass Effect 1 into Mass Effect 2 is that those choices you made are there. It's the world the way you left it.
Do the choices I make really affect the outcome of the story?
The choices you make will have a direct impact on how the story plays out. Your actions can have brutal consequences. Important characters can die.
Why is Mass Effect 2 a "darker second act"?
In Mass Effect, you repelled an invasion of Reapers – a race of ancient machines that want to harvest all organic civilization. But the Reapers are still out there. Humans are being abducted all over the galaxy, and you’re working with a shadowy pro-human group called Cerberus to find out why. This plot line and the intensity of the action naturally lends itself to a darker second chapter.
Why a trilogy? How are you going to maintain the story through all 3 chapters?
We wanted to tell an interactive story over the course of three games. So the choices you make can affect the broader story in the trilogy. There is a high level story arc that we will maintain through the trilogy and you control how the outcomes play out and who the lead characters will be.
How will the character I chose to be in Mass Effect, make my story in Mass Effect 2 different?
Depending on how you played the first Mass Effect, the way you start Mass Effect 2 will be different. How it ended, which morale path you chose, the characters you chose to kill, it all impacts your story.
Will there be a new cast of characters in Mass Effect 2?
Yes there will definitely be new species and new characters that you will meet. If the player chooses to use save data from the first Mass Effect, there will be some carry over with the characters that they chose to favor in the first game. That being said, if the player killed Wrex, then Wrex will not be in Mass Effect 2 etc. As well, the player is recruiting a new team for the crew and will be meeting a lot of unusual and sometimes threatening new party members throughout the story.
Will there be relationships in the game?
As with any BioWare title, Mass Effect 2 has the key features to create an emotional impact within any epic story with a mix of action, adventure, conflict and romance. Relationships will be built within party loyalty and the actions and decisions you make throughout your journey.
Why should I care if I have strong relationships in the game?
Without the party member’s loyalty, success is less likely. You need to develop a strong and loyal squad in order to be able to succeed. They can leave your party or be killed. With the loss of a team member the player will also lose unique skill sets storyline, and subplots.
Character/Species and Party Q&A
Depending on how you played the first Mass Effect, the way you start Mass Effect 2 will be different. How it ended, which morale path you chose, the characters you chose to kill, it all impacts your story.
Will there be a new cast of characters in Mass Effect 2?
Yes there will definitely be new species and new characters that you will meet. If the player chooses to use save data from the first Mass Effect, there will be some carry over with the characters that they chose to favor in the first game. That being said, if the player killed Wrex, then Wrex will not be in Mass Effect 2 etc. As well, the player is recruiting a new team for the crew and will be meeting a lot of unusual and sometimes threatening new party members throughout the story.
Will there be relationships in the game?
As with any BioWare title, Mass Effect 2 has the key features to create an emotional impact within any epic story with a mix of action, adventure, conflict and romance. Relationships will be built within party loyalty and the actions and decisions you make throughout your journey.
Why should I care if I have strong relationships in the game?
Without the party member’s loyalty, success is less likely. You need to develop a strong and loyal squad in order to be able to succeed. They can leave your party or be killed. With the loss of a team member the player will also lose unique skill sets storyline, and subplots.
Are there new classes in Mass Effect 2? If so, what are they?
You will have the same classes as in ME1, but each class is now able to progress through a new set of abilities.
Is Saren really dead?
Yes Saren is dead and will not be in Mass Effect 2. The purpose of finishing the first Mass Effect was to defeat Saren. We didn't want to take away the glory of that victory. The threat in Mass Effect 2 is new…and even bigger.
Is Liara back as a playable character?
You will see Liara in Mass Effect 2, and in fact that’s her in the beginning of the demo. It’s an example of the impact of ME1 choices, because for the Shepard in the demo, Liara was his love interest in ME1. For someone else that had a different love interest, there would be someone else in that position.
Is Seth Green involved in the project again?
Joker will play a role in Mass Effect 2, so Seth Green will be doing voiceover work on the sequel.
Who are Nassana and her sister?
Nassana and her sister were characters from ME1. Nassana betrayed Shepard as part of a feud with her sister, and how you handled the situation will reflect on her reaction to you in ME2.
Who and what is Thane?
Thane is a deadly assassin who we want to join our crew for his unique abilities. Thane is part of a new species we are introducing, called the drell. We will be talking more about the drell in the future.
Can the Geth become Party Members?
We will be discussing more about the Geth’s role in the future.
Who is Grunt?
Grunt is a Krogan and a character we will be discussing him more in the future.
How many party members can be in your group at one time?
You can have 3 party members with you at any given time including yourself.
How many party members can you get total?
You’ll have more potential squad members than in ME1 but, what we can tell you is, you are developing a diverse, dangerous and rough crew that you will need to gain the loyalty and trust of to be able to succeed the final battle. Without the loyalty of your party, your chance for success is hindered.
Technology and Advancement
You will have the same classes as in ME1, but each class is now able to progress through a new set of abilities.
Is Saren really dead?
Yes Saren is dead and will not be in Mass Effect 2. The purpose of finishing the first Mass Effect was to defeat Saren. We didn't want to take away the glory of that victory. The threat in Mass Effect 2 is new…and even bigger.
Is Liara back as a playable character?
You will see Liara in Mass Effect 2, and in fact that’s her in the beginning of the demo. It’s an example of the impact of ME1 choices, because for the Shepard in the demo, Liara was his love interest in ME1. For someone else that had a different love interest, there would be someone else in that position.
Is Seth Green involved in the project again?
Joker will play a role in Mass Effect 2, so Seth Green will be doing voiceover work on the sequel.
Who are Nassana and her sister?
Nassana and her sister were characters from ME1. Nassana betrayed Shepard as part of a feud with her sister, and how you handled the situation will reflect on her reaction to you in ME2.
Who and what is Thane?
Thane is a deadly assassin who we want to join our crew for his unique abilities. Thane is part of a new species we are introducing, called the drell. We will be talking more about the drell in the future.
Can the Geth become Party Members?
We will be discussing more about the Geth’s role in the future.
Who is Grunt?
Grunt is a Krogan and a character we will be discussing him more in the future.
How many party members can be in your group at one time?
You can have 3 party members with you at any given time including yourself.
How many party members can you get total?
You’ll have more potential squad members than in ME1 but, what we can tell you is, you are developing a diverse, dangerous and rough crew that you will need to gain the loyalty and trust of to be able to succeed the final battle. Without the loyalty of your party, your chance for success is hindered.
How does the Interrupt System work?
With the interrupt system in Mass Effect 2, you can physically seize control of a conversation and dramatically or even drastically change its outcome. There is a new interface icon on the bottom left side of the screen, when it appears the player can pull the trigger to reveal the sometimes shocking real-time outcomes of the decision.
Is the initial intro and tutorial system better?
In Mass Effect 2, you start the game with more guidance so learning the controls will be seamless and quick.
How have the Squad Controls been improved?
Players can now issue squad commands to each individual in their party. The player can map various powers and abilities, and issue “context sensitive” commands to the squad, all in real time. So for example if you are pointing at a spot on the ground, the D-pad will send a squad member there. If you are pointing at an enemy, the D pad will instead have that squad member launch a power at the enemy. Right side is one squad mate, left side is the other one.
How has the combat and cover systems been improved in Mass Effect 2?
The cover system in Mass Effect 2 is more dynamic, with the addition of new realistic animations, getting into and out of cover is smoother and more intuitive, and you can also mantle over objects.
How has Mass Effect 2 enhanced animation?
Individual character animations have improved giving characters unique and subtle characteristics, which further develop their personality and appeal. Facial animations have been improved greatly, where the characters expressions convey the most believable digital acting to date in a video game.
How is the Power Wheel different in Mass Effect 2?
The power wheel in ME2 works similarly to before, but is now used more for mapping powers so that they can be used throughout combat in real time.
How does the new tactics system work? Does that mean I will never have to use the power wheel if I don't want to?
You can now send independent context-sensitive commands to each squad member, for movement and targeting. You will still use the power wheel, but more of the combat takes place using real time commands.
How does the Dialogue Wheel work in Mass Effect 2?
We were extremely happy with how the interrupt system worked on the first game, so that interface is the same. But we’ve made a lot of creative and technical improvements to how the conversations actually look and feel, so that they are now more dynamic and more seamlessly woven into the game.
Exploration (ed. The 'richer' section.)
With the interrupt system in Mass Effect 2, you can physically seize control of a conversation and dramatically or even drastically change its outcome. There is a new interface icon on the bottom left side of the screen, when it appears the player can pull the trigger to reveal the sometimes shocking real-time outcomes of the decision.
Is the initial intro and tutorial system better?
In Mass Effect 2, you start the game with more guidance so learning the controls will be seamless and quick.
How have the Squad Controls been improved?
Players can now issue squad commands to each individual in their party. The player can map various powers and abilities, and issue “context sensitive” commands to the squad, all in real time. So for example if you are pointing at a spot on the ground, the D-pad will send a squad member there. If you are pointing at an enemy, the D pad will instead have that squad member launch a power at the enemy. Right side is one squad mate, left side is the other one.
How has the combat and cover systems been improved in Mass Effect 2?
The cover system in Mass Effect 2 is more dynamic, with the addition of new realistic animations, getting into and out of cover is smoother and more intuitive, and you can also mantle over objects.
How has Mass Effect 2 enhanced animation?
Individual character animations have improved giving characters unique and subtle characteristics, which further develop their personality and appeal. Facial animations have been improved greatly, where the characters expressions convey the most believable digital acting to date in a video game.
How is the Power Wheel different in Mass Effect 2?
The power wheel in ME2 works similarly to before, but is now used more for mapping powers so that they can be used throughout combat in real time.
How does the new tactics system work? Does that mean I will never have to use the power wheel if I don't want to?
You can now send independent context-sensitive commands to each squad member, for movement and targeting. You will still use the power wheel, but more of the combat takes place using real time commands.
How does the Dialogue Wheel work in Mass Effect 2?
We were extremely happy with how the interrupt system worked on the first game, so that interface is the same. But we’ve made a lot of creative and technical improvements to how the conversations actually look and feel, so that they are now more dynamic and more seamlessly woven into the game.
You say that the environments are different and more rich. Does this mean that they won't be as repetitive?
We have taken fan feedback from Mass Effect and directly implemented the changes in Mass Effect 2. As space and planet exploration was an area for improvement, we have ensured richer and more diverse planets with unique landscapes and developed very interesting and relevant plot expanding side quests on those planets to ensure there is more fulfillment within the exploration.
How has the Exploration System been advanced?
We’ve taken the fan feedback very seriously and made the entire exploration experience deeper and richer.
Will there be more planets?
The planet exploration in Mass Effect 2 is richer and more lush than previously experienced. There is a huge universe to explore with many new planets that will feel rich and varied. There is also much more intrigue within the exploration.
What is the planet scanning mini-game?
With the ship’s scanners you literally feel and listen for signs of life, technology and resources. You will decide which locations are worth launching a probe, to retrieve resources or get information on potential landing sites. When you find a landing site, the things you’ll discover there are much richer and more varied than ever before.
Control and Combat
We have taken fan feedback from Mass Effect and directly implemented the changes in Mass Effect 2. As space and planet exploration was an area for improvement, we have ensured richer and more diverse planets with unique landscapes and developed very interesting and relevant plot expanding side quests on those planets to ensure there is more fulfillment within the exploration.
How has the Exploration System been advanced?
We’ve taken the fan feedback very seriously and made the entire exploration experience deeper and richer.
Will there be more planets?
The planet exploration in Mass Effect 2 is richer and more lush than previously experienced. There is a huge universe to explore with many new planets that will feel rich and varied. There is also much more intrigue within the exploration.
What is the planet scanning mini-game?
With the ship’s scanners you literally feel and listen for signs of life, technology and resources. You will decide which locations are worth launching a probe, to retrieve resources or get information on potential landing sites. When you find a landing site, the things you’ll discover there are much richer and more varied than ever before.
Do you control the Normandy?
You still navigate using the galaxy map, but now you actually move the current position of the Normandy through the map itself. It streamlines the interface but also supports the enhanced feeling of deep space exploration since you now manage fuel to get to distant stars.
Is there in space fighting? Ship?
There will be no ship to ship combat.
Will you able to pilot other ships beyond the Normandy?
You will be able to pilot other vehicles, and we will be discussing those in more detail at a later date.
At what point in the story does the Normandy crash take place?
We aren't saying what point in time the Normandy crash occurs; only that it isn't at the end of the game.
If the ship attacking the Normandy is not Geth - What are they?
We are not revealing the origin of the Normandy attackers at this time.
Will there be new weapons?
Yes, you will have 9 new types of weapons beyond the 4 from ME1, plus the new heavy weapon system.
When you say Mass Effect 2 feels like a precision shooter, what do you mean?
In Mass Effect, your character played at the skill level they had achieved; instead of at the skill level the player could be capable of achieving. In Mass Effect 2, if the player shoots at a target, despite the skill level, it will be hit if they have properly aimed. Skill level will have no impact on aiming and shooting abilities. It’s a cleaner, more precise system to better enhance the overall gameplay and combat experience.
What is Location Based Damage? How does it work?
With location based damage, the player can target specific spots on enemies to take them down. Some enemies can take partial damage and though disabled, will continue to pursue their attacker. However, targeted head shots are possible and those can inflict critical damage to your enemies.
What are biotic attacks, how do they work? How have they advanced since Mass Effect?
Biotic powers are obtained by implanting a cybernetic device. Today we were showing a combination of attacks with Biotic Pull which pulls enemies out of their cover positions and sends them into an airborne state, it can be combined with overload, which Is an attack where the mechs are immobilized by electricity. This is just one of many cool new combinations that can be found in the Mass Effect 2 combat system.
You still navigate using the galaxy map, but now you actually move the current position of the Normandy through the map itself. It streamlines the interface but also supports the enhanced feeling of deep space exploration since you now manage fuel to get to distant stars.
Is there in space fighting? Ship?
There will be no ship to ship combat.
Will you able to pilot other ships beyond the Normandy?
You will be able to pilot other vehicles, and we will be discussing those in more detail at a later date.
At what point in the story does the Normandy crash take place?
We aren't saying what point in time the Normandy crash occurs; only that it isn't at the end of the game.
If the ship attacking the Normandy is not Geth - What are they?
We are not revealing the origin of the Normandy attackers at this time.
Will there be new weapons?
Yes, you will have 9 new types of weapons beyond the 4 from ME1, plus the new heavy weapon system.
When you say Mass Effect 2 feels like a precision shooter, what do you mean?
In Mass Effect, your character played at the skill level they had achieved; instead of at the skill level the player could be capable of achieving. In Mass Effect 2, if the player shoots at a target, despite the skill level, it will be hit if they have properly aimed. Skill level will have no impact on aiming and shooting abilities. It’s a cleaner, more precise system to better enhance the overall gameplay and combat experience.
What is Location Based Damage? How does it work?
With location based damage, the player can target specific spots on enemies to take them down. Some enemies can take partial damage and though disabled, will continue to pursue their attacker. However, targeted head shots are possible and those can inflict critical damage to your enemies.
What are biotic attacks, how do they work? How have they advanced since Mass Effect?
Biotic powers are obtained by implanting a cybernetic device. Today we were showing a combination of attacks with Biotic Pull which pulls enemies out of their cover positions and sends them into an airborne state, it can be combined with overload, which Is an attack where the mechs are immobilized by electricity. This is just one of many cool new combinations that can be found in the Mass Effect 2 combat system.
Casey Hudson blogged some shit. More direct answers so some FAQs.
Casey at the Bat wrote:Well we’re back from E3, and I’ve been checking out some of the feedback on our first live demonstrations of Mass Effect 2. We showed some pretty dramatic stuff, and the response has been incredibly positive. The demo also inspired some passionate debate about what it all meant.
There are some really good articles out there describing what we showed at E3, but I figured it might be useful if I clarified some points and answered a few questions people have asked here and on the BioWare forums since E3. I’ll won’t drop any real spoilers here - this is all just the basic premise of the game that we described for people at the show…
The Suicide Mission Concept
In Mass Effect 2, you (as Commander Shepard) are faced with what appears to be a suicide mission: taking a team into the heart of enemy territory where you shouldn’t have any chance of coming back alive. Your survival therefore is based on how well you’ve built a team – who you recruited, how well-equipped they are, and whether they’re loyal to you. Loyalty (and the things you’ll do to earn it) is a central part of the game, and it is critical to Shepard surviving the final mission.
Paragon / Renegade decisions affect a lot of things in the game - and will affect which how the game ends - but they are completely separate from your character’s readiness to survive the final mission.
When we say that Shepard can die in Mass Effect 2, it’s not something that happens at points in the middle of the game. Yes, you can “die” in gameplay as normal but that’s not what we’re talking about here. It’s not a “Game Over” screen. It’s not a gimmicky thing where you make a choice, “die”, and reload to continue to the “real” ending. When you get to the very end of the story in Mass Effect 2, you will get one of a wide variety of climactic and satisfying endings. Depending on how prepared you were, your ending may involve Shepard making the ultimate sacrifice to accomplish the mission.
If you do die in the ending of Mass Effect 2, it will not come as a surprise, nor will it be random. It will be pretty obvious that you headed into the final mission knowing that Shepard probably wouldn’t make it out alive. Throughout the middle of the game you are building up information, resources, a team, and a ship that will be able to do the job, and although you can jump straight to the final mission at a certain point, you’ll have a good feel for whether you’re likely to survive it.
Part of what makes the final mission dangerous in a more profound way is that each squad member could potentially die a real, story-based death during that mission as well. You might have an ending where Shepard’s entire team survives, or where the entire mission is a bloodbath and everyone (including Shepard) is killed, or anything in between. And for all characters, death in Mass Effect 2 means they won’t show up in Mass Effect 3.
One big reason you’ll want to be alive after the ending is that after the credits roll, you are returned to the game world - ready to head back out for more adventure. You can complete unfinished missions, explore the galaxy, and download new adventures to play. But Mass Effect is a trilogy about Commander Shepard’s journey - if your Shepard dies in the end of Mass Effect 2, that’s the end of him / her. In that case, you can play Mass Effect 3 as “a” Shepard – just not “your” Shepard. As in real life, not being able to keep living is really the main down-side of death. So if you care about playing the next game with your character, make sure you survive this one.
If you die in the end but in retrospect you really wish you had lived, you can of course go back to a savegame from before you attempted the final mission. From there you can make the improvements required to survive and continue your character into the next game.
Importing your Mass Effect Savegame
First, you do not need to have played Mass Effect to enjoy Mass Effect 2. The introduction is designed to introduce new players to the story and universe, and to recap the situation for previous players.
If you have completed Mass Effect and you still have your savegames, you can view each playthrough you’ve completed, and choose the one you want to continue from. The Mass Effect savegame doesn’t just contain a couple of your big choices. It contains countless decisions you’ve made, both large and small. These things could each potentially carry forward and affect your story in Mass Effect 2. This has never been done before on this scale, and it means you’re actually continuing your own story from exactly where you left off.
Some have asked “I built a level 60 character with lots of loot in Mass Effect – will it all carry over to Mass Effect 2?” We will definitely provide benefits for those who put time into developing their character in Mass Effect. But to support all the improvements made in combat and inventory, the skills and items are pretty much completely redone for Mass Effect 2. So if you import a character from Mass Effect, Mass Effect 2 will adapt the key assets of your character into starting benefits that work in the new system.
Answers to Other Popular Questions
You demonstrated feature X, so does that mean you’ve forgotten about feature Y?
Some worry that by emphasizing certain things in the E3 demo, it means we’ve forgotten about other elements. Not so of course. When you take a game to E3, you really have to focus the message down to something razor-sharp, to cut through all the noise of the show. In our case, it was the key differences between Mass Effect and Mass Effect 2 that we wanted to emphasize – and we didn’t even have enough time in our slot to show them all! Examples of things we did not show but are definitely in the game are: a completely new and beautifully-handling vehicle, richer and more diverse Uncharted World locations, new space exploration interactivity, systems for character progression, new weapon and armor customization, other cool characters (some new and some you know from the first game), and a ton of content and features.
Will Ashley/Garrus/Wrex/etc return in ME2?
Pretty much all the main characters from Mass Effect appear in Mass Effect 2 in one form or another (if they survived your decision-making), and some can join your squad. In general you can expect to continue relationships with these characters across the trilogy, unless you get them killed.
Why can't every squadmember from Mass Effect join my squad in Mass Effect 2?
Part of the answer is that the story of Mass Effect 2 is really about the characters - how you go about building a team of interesting individuals - and we wanted to provide some new characters for you to learn about. But beyond that, we're creating a story full of thrilling twists and turns, and while it may be frustrating to not have all the answers right now, these surprises will make the actual playing part really enjoyable. As part of that story, you'll discover what each of your original team members is up to, and why they will or won't join you. You wouldn't want us to spell out exactly who you team up with before you have a chance to discover it on your own, right? Once you're playing Mass Effect 2 and you're immersed in the story, you'll be glad we saved lots of juicy surprises and revelations that can only be found inside the game.
Was that a reload animation I saw in the demo?
Like in the first game, most of the futuristic weapons in Mass Effect 2 do not require ammo but they do overheat. The difference now is that instead of waiting for your weapon to cool, you can hit a button to eject a small heat sink to immediately cool the weapon and get back into firing. So it’s a similar system but now you are in control of the cooldown.
Do I need fast reflexes to use the Interrupt system?
Interrupts are not meant to be “quick time events”. They are additional options that can appear throughout an NPC’s line that allow you to take a more physical action versus one of the verbal responses. You don’t need to fixate on a part of the screen – a flashing icon will catch your attention in your peripheral vision when it is available. A red icon on the left of the conversation wheel means you can pull the left trigger to fire a hostile interrupt. A blue one on the right side means you can pull the right trigger to do a heroic interrupt. This system allows you to really throw your weight around and get involved in more dynamic interactions with other characters.
Did you remove pausing in combat?
No. We’ve made a bunch of changes that add up to the ability to fight without pausing. But you can still hold the powers screen up to pause the action and plan your next moves. One of the biggest improvements was the option to fire your powers in realtime by mapping your favorite ones to buttons – this is a lot of fun and really unlocks the real potential of the combat system. The other big improvement was separate, context-based squad commands on the d-pad. So with a single press of the d-pad you can send a specific squad member to exactly where you want him / her, or to hit an enemy with a special power. This means you can run around with the best powers of your team right at your fingertips and enjoy realtime tactical mayhem – or you can pause with the powers screen to really think about what you want to do next.
And the two most common questions:
Did you fix the slow elevators? and Will there be alien love scenes?
Yes and yes. We actually had our new level transition system on display in the demo, which replaces elevators and other transitions from the first game. The new system did its job perfectly in the demo– it was a natural part of the visual narrative and went by fast enough that no one noticed it even happened. As for whether there will be alien love in an elevator, you’ll have to play to find out.
(Robert) Preston Watamaniuk, ME Lead Designer, has this to say on New Game+. (Scroll Down).
Preston Sturges Watamaniuk wrote:Ahhh, ok my bad. The question then is:
"After finishing ME2 can I take my character and restart a new playthrough preserving that characters gear and abilities."
The short answer is no.
The reason is progression. We have been working very hard to make sure we design the abilities system to offer smooth progression into ME3 from ME2. Allowing double progression on characters makes that almost impossible. We have to have reasonable knowledge about where a character could end up finishing all content on a playthrough. We also want to offer choice of character build within specific classes.
We replaced that feature with playing after you were done because it preserves progression and allows for smoother downloading of PRC.
Here's the old OP.
Going to reserve this space for ME2 info. Relevant ME1 info added as needed.
Full E3 Trailer
E3 Promo Trailer
ME2 Preview Trailer
First Teaser Trailer
Courtesy of TychoCelchuuu.
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Problems with Therum? Solution in the spoiler.
Hey! Therum is missing textures!
A PC game with bugs? That's unpossible!
Sadly, many have had issues with the PC version of the game. Obviously, make sure you have the latest drivers available. And while we're happy to help in this thread, contacting 'official' support personnel may have better results.
Here is a link to a list of issues the Steam version may have in general.
But this seems to work best for the Therum issue:
If you find you'd rather delete the files manually, you might have to do it more than once before success.
As of Feb. 11, there hasn't been a patch released to deal with this, though a patch is mentioned as coming soon (we don't know when yet). This may address the issue once and for all.
A PC game with bugs? That's unpossible!
Sadly, many have had issues with the PC version of the game. Obviously, make sure you have the latest drivers available. And while we're happy to help in this thread, contacting 'official' support personnel may have better results.
Here is a link to a list of issues the Steam version may have in general.
But this seems to work best for the Therum issue:
The solution is usually quite simple - without doing anything else after landing on Therum - save your game, exit, go to the Steam\steamapps\common\mass effect\Binaries folder, and run the MassEffectConfig.exe
(if you are running Vista you will first have to right click on this file, and have it run in XP compatibility mode)
Once you run the config file, click on the Repair option, and then click on "Delete Local Shader Cache Files".
Restart the last saved game on Therum, and it should work.
Don't try to manually delete the shader cache files - you shouldn't have to if you use the config tool.
As of Feb. 11, there hasn't been a patch released to deal with this, though a patch is mentioned as coming soon (we don't know when yet). This may address the issue once and for all.
Santa Claustrophobia on
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Do not engage the Watermelons.
Houn's ME1 Cast Predictions, Version 2!
- Ashley/Kaiden will either have been re-assigned, or will die off early.
--- If you romanced one of them, they'll show up early game, but it will be obvious that the attraction is gone, a product of the stressful times in ME1. You won't be particularly broken up about them dieing/leaving.
- Liara will leave to go dig up more old stuff.
--- If you romanced her, she'll realize her attraction to you was simply because of your connection to the Protheans, and you'll realize you just had blue fever. She'll make a guest appearance early/mid game, and it'll be a really awkward and touching scene with some phenomenal writing, as she tells you she's preggers, and wants your opinion on gene therapy for your baby.
- Tali will have returned to the Fleet.
--- She'll show up in a side quest where you deliver Geth tech to the Quarians. Romancible if you've earned the "Clean Bill of Health" Achievement.
- Garrus will either have your back, or be the new C-Sec Chief.
--- If not a party member, will show up in a mid-game sidequest on the Citadel, where he chews you and Wrex out for your reckless behavior, then demands your badges.
- Wrex will have your back. He'll also have an afro. And possibly a monocle. Also romancible for both sexes.
This is the only new feature in ME2 I care about.
To continue the last thread's senseless arguing about game balance:
Of course, if you prefer another armor go ahead and use it. Sometimes being the best is boring.
Do you view the world through some kind of pinhole camera?
Do not engage the Watermelons.
***But he'll also grudgingly admit that you're a damn fine cop.
SOME JOKE ABOUT YOU ALREADY LIVING ON EARTH
No, I meant the one I saw in the collector's edition, which is of the "high class" version, not the ugly underbelly that could provide some very interesting plot points as well.
Actually, I live in space-oceans. Duh.
The question was about pure numbers based 'best'. The geth armour for Wrex is up there numberwise, but is rare as Smallpox.
Some armour is better than others, but personal style can still count for something.
Do not engage the Watermelons.
Lime'd for awesome.
Liara might still be there. Especially with Ashely not being there. Then you can make more mind babies whether or not you did in the first game. Though she might get jealous as everyone will just sex up Wrex. Especially if he gets a top hat. I think someone had posted a pic in the last thread of him in a top hat and it was awesome.
"Read twice, post once. It's almost like 'measure twice, cut once' only with reading." - MetaverseNomad
Well you are a dolphin. One would hope that you lived in an ocean.
Are you talking about behind-the-scenes stuff on Earth or the actual in-game view of it from the moon?
Do not engage the Watermelons.
If the first game is any indication, you'll kill a bunch of someones.
They tried to bury us. They didn't know that we were seeds. 2018 Midterms. Get your shit together.
I sort of assumed that Garrus would replace the old Chief, on account of
spoilered for not work safe
are you sure?
anyway about Garrus: i kinda got the feeling that
i mean, the way Garrus describes his father sounds exactly like the Chief
What about mind-sex or inappropriate comments about Tali?
Man, 22 posts in before this was mentioned. You guys are slackers.
Also, am I the only person who hopes Liara comes back as a party member?
Does this mean that when ME2 is released, it'll just be an empty box?
Nintendo Switch friend code: SW-4012-4821-3053
So.
Does that mean ME2 is basically one line of code that says FUCK, now?
e.
Haha, beated
Don't do this, you guys should embrace what you've created and make a DS game based around stylus movement.
:^:
Wrex to have 3 balls in ME2 confirmed?
They already did this. It's coming to iPhone/iTouch.
:winky:
i cant find it
They probably won't go this route as it wouldn't work if you went after Liara instead, but I could see this perhaps being mentioned as a plausible explanation.
You all have nobody but yourselves to blame.
Like 12 pages too late.
Remorsefully:
Handy for when you roll the mako over :winky: