Review Impressions: Mass Effect 2

To the sound of much rejoicing (and possibly some excited squealing from some quarters) we got our hands on the Mass Effect 2 review code. We can’t say much, nor would we want to, because from the very first second, ME2 establishes itself as a game that demands to be played with as little prior knowledge as possible. Having said that, we can talk about our playthrough of the first 30 minutes in general terms. No spoilers are contained herein then, unless you thought the game was going to be rubbish.

-The opening is absolutely fantastic. Those who have waited since 2007 for the sequel to make its bow will not be disappointed.

-The graphics are superb. The first game’s visuals were very impressive, but the sequel easily beats it. The character models deserve particular mention: unbelievably detailed without straying too far into the uncanny valley, they’re some of the very best in gaming.

- Sound design, effects and score are fantastic, complementing the visuals greatly.

- Despite its sequel status (and the middle of the trilogy to boot), new players won’t be lost in the complexities of the universe: instead the quality of the writing ensures that they’ll be as intrigued as they are enthralled.

So first impressions are excellent, and we can’t say we expected anything else. Obviously we can’t comment on the rest of the game, so check out the full review in issue 62 of 360, on sale 20th January 2010.