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Mass Effect: Andromeda

Name: Comprehensive Review and Analysis of Mass Effect: Andromeda
Item: Mass Effect: Andromeda
Author: Critik Editorial Team

2017

GenresAdventure, Action, Third Person Perspective, Shooter, Open World, RPG, Mystery, Single Player, Multiplayer

AvailableMar 21, 2017

PlatformPC, Xbox One, PlayStation 4

DeveloperBioWare

Overview

A new adventure awaits in the Mass Effect universe. With stunning visuals and a new galaxy to discover, BioWare delivers the next generation of space exploration. Commander Shepard's story may be over, but there are many more stories to tell in the Mass Effect universe. Mass Effect Andromeda will be set in a new galaxy, with new characters, new quests and a whole load of new consequence-laden decisions to make. Mass Effect: Andromeda takes you to the Andromeda galaxy, far beyond the Milky Way. There, you'll lead our fight for a new home in hostile territory - where WE are the aliens. Play as the Pathfinder - a leader of a squad of military-trained explorers - with deep progression and customisation systems. This is the story of humanity’s next chapter, and your choices throughout the game will ultimately determine our survival in the Andromeda Galaxy. As you unfold the mysteries of the Andromeda Galaxy and the hope for humanity lies on your shoulders – You must ask yourself… How far will you go? Key Features: Return to the Mass Effect universe. Lead the first humans in Andromeda on a desperate search for our new home. In this new chapter of Mass Effect, meet and recruit all-new, interesting characters caught up in an epic space saga filled with mystery and galactic conflict. Fight for survival. Battle with your Pathfinder team against terrifying enemies and creatures. New additions like destructible environments, boosted jumps for added verticality, and all-new weapons and Biotics make combat more thrilling than ever. Build your hero. Create a formidable hero with amazing weapons, powers and tech. A much more flexible skill and weapon progression tree means you can replicate your play style to make you unstoppable against new, powerful alien enemies. Explore a new galaxy. Chart your own course in a dangerous new region. Unravel the mysteries of the Andromeda galaxy as you discover rich, alien worlds in the search for humanity’s new home.

Elsewhere

7.0

Game analysis

Monster Scorecard

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Story and Narrative

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SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR STORY

Story Score

Positive (80-100)

36%

Mixed (50-79)

57%

Negative (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the story and narrative.

The opinions of the critics regarding the story of Mass Effect: Andromeda are varied, with some positive and negative aspects highlighted. GameGrin and RPG Fan appreciate the interesting setup of a new galaxy and races, as well as the integration of main plot threads and side missions. This suggests that the game succeeds in creating an immersive and cohesive narrative experience. Additionally, The Daily Dot praises the sense of optimism and discovery in the story, providing a fresh spin on the apocalyptic war of the original trilogy. These positive aspects indicate that Mass Effect: Andromeda offers a compelling and engaging storyline, especially for players who enjoy exploration and world-building. However, several critics express negative opinions about the story. GameCritics and DarkStation criticize the predictability and lack of impact in the narrative, with the former also highlighting issues with character development and facial animations. CGMagazine and App Trigger mention missed opportunities and a lack of depth in the story, suggesting that it fails to live up to the potential set by the original trilogy. These negative aspects indicate that Mass Effect: Andromeda may not deliver a truly captivating and emotionally resonant storytelling experience. Overall, the consensus among the critics is mixed. While some critics, such as Game Rant and RPGamer, appreciate the progression and improvement of the story as the game unfolds, others, like Stevivor and ZTGD, find it lacking in originality and distinction. The presence of both positive and negative opinions suggests that the story of Mass Effect: Andromeda has its strengths and weaknesses, with some aspects resonating with certain players while leaving others underwhelmed. Ultimately, the success of the story may depend on individual preferences and expectations, as well as the player's willingness to explore a new galaxy and engage with its characters and conflicts.

TL;DR

story and narrative

Critics have mixed opinions on the story of Mass Effect: Andromeda. Positive reviews praise its immersive world-building and fresh take on the original trilogy's themes. However, negative feedback criticizes its predictability, lack of depth, and missed opportunities. Overall, the game's narrative success varies depending on individual preferences and expectations.

Gameplay Mechanics

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SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR GAMEPLAY

Gameplay Score

Positive (80-100)

67%

Mixed (50-79)

30%

Negative (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the gameplay mechanics.

The opinions of the critics regarding the gameplay of Mass Effect: Andromeda are mixed, with both positive and negative aspects being highlighted. In terms of positives, several critics praised the combat mechanics, noting that it is an improvement over previous games in the series. Game Debate commends the seamless transitions between exploration and fighting, while MMORPG.com describes the battles as intense and fast-paced. The addition of a jump pack and jump jets is also seen as a positive, adding depth and strategy to encounters (Game Debate, MMORPG.com, CGMagazine). The combat is considered the best in the series, with tight gunplay, customizable abilities, and memorable set pieces (VideoGamer, GameSpew). The RPG elements have been expanded, including crafting and skill customization (Xbox Achievements, VideoGamer). On the other hand, there are also negative opinions regarding the gameplay. Some critics mention that the combat lacks surprises and tactical depth (GameCritics, Xbox Achievements). The cover system is frustrating and imprecise (DarkStation), and some systems have become more cumbersome (DarkStation). The exploration aspect is diluted by mundane side quests and the slow and cumbersome movement of the Nomad vehicle (App Trigger). The side quests are described as dull and disappointing, following a repetitive structure of scanning objects and talking to people (NZGamer, Slant Magazine). Overall, the consensus among the critics is that the combat mechanics in Mass Effect: Andromeda are a significant improvement over previous games in the series. The addition of jump jets, customizable abilities, and tight gunplay make for engaging and fast-paced battles. However, there are criticisms regarding the lack of surprises and tactical depth in the combat, as well as frustrations with the cover system and cumbersome systems. The exploration aspect is also seen as lacking, with repetitive side quests and slow vehicle movement. Despite these negatives, the gameplay of Mass Effect: Andromeda is generally praised for its improvements and customization options, making it a satisfying experience for fans of the series (Game Debate, MMORPG.com, GameSpew, VideoGamer).

TL;DR

gameplay mechanics

Critics are divided on Mass Effect: Andromeda's gameplay: praise for improved combat mechanics including jump jets and customizable abilities, but criticism for lack of tactical depth and frustrating cover system. Exploration suffers from mundane side quests and slow vehicle movement. Despite flaws, the game offers engaging battles and expanded RPG elements, making it a satisfying experience for fans (Game Debate, MMORPG.com, GameSpew, VideoGamer).

Graphics and Visual Design

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SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VISUALS

Visual Score

Positive (80-100)

17%

Mixed (50-79)

76%

Negative (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the graphics and visual design.

The opinions of the critics regarding the graphics and visual design of Mass Effect: Andromeda are varied. Several critics praise the game for its stunning and well-crafted environments, particularly when it comes to the alien planets and landscapes. NZGamer commends the game for creating suitably alien and mysterious environments, with beautiful landscapes, strange plant life, and varied weather conditions. Impulsegamer also highlights the impressive graphics, mentioning the well-crafted environments that give the illusion of being on distant alien worlds. Additionally, God is a Geek mentions the stunning visuals and meticulously designed environments, emphasizing the strong points of lighting and attention to detail. However, there are also several critics who express disappointment with certain aspects of the graphics and visual design. The facial animations and character models receive significant criticism from multiple critics. GameCritics, GameGrin, and GameSpew all mention issues with facial animations, ranging from being buggy and occasionally looking strange to being inconsistent and lacking next-gen quality. CGMagazine goes as far as comparing the oddities and weird animations to the PC version of Assassin's Creed Unity, describing it as a regression compared to the original trilogy. DarkStation highlights the lack of imagination and sense of wonder in the planetary design, particularly when it comes to the human and alien races, which fare poorly in terms of facial animations and expressions. Overall, the consensus among the critics leans towards a mixed opinion regarding the graphics and visual design of Mass Effect: Andromeda. While there is praise for the stunning environments, vibrant colors, and attention to detail, there is also significant criticism directed towards the facial animations, character models, and occasional technical issues. The Daily Dot notes that the visuals have an indistinguishable look from Mass Effect 3, while RPGamer mentions occasional wonky animations. Despite these flaws, some critics, such as Game Informer and Gaming Age, mention that the rough animations and technical issues do not significantly impact the overall enjoyment of the game. TheSixthAxis, however, expresses disappointment with the poor character models and animations, considering it a letdown in contrast to the phenomenal visuals and breathtaking landscapes.

TL;DR

graphics and visual design

Critics are divided on Mass Effect: Andromeda's graphics. Some praise the stunning alien environments, while others criticize poor facial animations and character models. Overall, opinions are mixed, with some enjoying the visuals despite flaws, while others find them disappointing compared to the landscapes.

Music and Sound Design

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SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR SOUND DESIGN

Sound Score

Positive (80-100)

71%

Mixed (50-79)

29%

Negative (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the music and sound design.

The opinions of the critics regarding the Sound Design and Music of Mass Effect: Andromeda are generally positive. Impulsegamer, Xbox Achievements, Game Informer, God is a Geek, RPG Fan, and RPGamer all mention positive aspects of the sound design and music in their reviews. Impulsegamer praises the voice acting, sound effects, and soundtrack, stating that they work well and contribute to the immersive experience of the game. Xbox Achievements also highlights the superb soundtrack and strong voice acting. Game Informer describes the music and sound effects as immersive and engaging. RPG Fan commends the game for excelling at crafting environments with ambient, spacey sound that adds to the atmosphere. RPGamer mentions that the music complements the setting and becomes rousing when required, while also praising the strong voice work with a variety of accents. However, there are some negative aspects mentioned by the critics. Xbox Achievements points out that there are some audio bugs present in the game. God is a Geek mentions that the voice acting can be weak at times. RPGamer notes that the frequent autosaves can cause odd silences during dialogue, which can disrupt the overall experience. Overall, the consensus among the critics is that the sound design and music in Mass Effect: Andromeda are positive aspects of the game. The voice acting is generally praised for its strength and variety of accents, although it is mentioned that it can be weak at times. The soundtrack is described as superb and complementary to the setting, creating an immersive experience. The sound effects and ambient sound design are also highlighted as contributing to the atmosphere of the game. While there are some audio bugs and occasional odd silences during dialogue, the positive aspects outweigh the negatives, resulting in a generally positive reception of the Sound Design and Music of Mass Effect: Andromeda.

TL;DR

music and sound design

Critics praise Mass Effect: Andromeda's sound design and music for enhancing the immersive experience with superb voice acting, engaging soundtrack, and atmospheric soundscapes. Despite some audio bugs and weak moments in voice acting, the overall consensus is positive, highlighting the game's strong points over its minor flaws.

Voice Acting

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SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VOICE ACTING

Acting Score

Positive (80-100)

20%

Mixed (50-79)

53%

Negative (0-49)

27%

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the voice acting.

In analyzing the opinions of multiple reviewers regarding the voice acting in Mass Effect: Andromeda, it is evident that there is a mix of positive and negative feedback. Several critics, such as Impulsegamer and VideoGamer, express positive views on the voice acting, highlighting that it works well and adds to the overall experience. They specifically mention strong performances from the voice actors of the main characters, Sara and Scott Ryder, as well as memorable lines from the Krogan squadmate, Drack. Additionally, App Trigger commends the impeccable voice work across the board, further reinforcing the positive aspects of the voice acting. On the other hand, negative opinions are also present among the critics. Game Debate describes the voice acting as "bargain-basement stuff," indicating a lack of quality. GameCritics criticizes the voice acting of the protagonist, highlighting over-enunciated words and a constant creepy grin, which they find insufferable. They also mention a crucial misstep in the lack of camaraderie among the cast. CGMagazine goes as far as calling the voice acting performances in Mass Effect: Andromeda the least inspired in BioWare's history, criticizing the lack of emotion and stone-faced expressions. DarkStation adds that while the voice acting is generally excellent, the dialogue often descends into cliches and fails to leave a lasting impression. Overall, the consensus among the critics suggests that the voice acting in Mass Effect: Andromeda is a mixed bag. While there are positive aspects, such as strong performances from certain characters and appreciable accents, there are also notable negatives. The lack of emotion, inconsistent characterization, and cliched dialogue are highlighted as drawbacks. NZGamer specifically mentions that conversations in pivotal moments lack emotion and have stilted dialogue flow. Game Informer adds that the cast of characters is not as memorable as in previous Mass Effect games. Gaming Age further emphasizes that the voice acting can be hit or miss, with wooden animations and expressionless faces further damaging the overall experience. In conclusion, the opinions of the critics regarding the voice acting in Mass Effect: Andromeda are divided. While some critics appreciate the voice work and performances of certain characters, others criticize the lack of emotion, inconsistent characterization, and cliched dialogue. The overall consensus leans towards a mixed reception, with both positive and negative aspects noted. It is important to consider the varied opinions and experiences of the critics when evaluating the voice acting in this game.

TL;DR

voice acting

Critics have mixed opinions on the voice acting in Mass Effect: Andromeda. Some praise strong performances from specific characters, while others criticize the lack of emotion and cliched dialogue. Overall, the reception is divided, with positive and negative aspects noted.

Technical Performance

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SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR TECHNICAL PERFORMANCE

Tech Score

Positive (80-100)

Mixed (50-79)

73%

Negative (0-49)

27%

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the technical performance.

In terms of the technical performance of Mass Effect: Andromeda, the PC version received mixed reviews from the critics. Game Debate and Wccftech both mentioned that while there were a couple of bugs, the game was mostly stable and free of major issues on high-end machines. However, GameCritics and NZGamer criticized the PC version for being a technical disaster, with numerous problems such as phasing enemies and NPCs, overlapping dialogue, and pervasive bugs affecting animations and interactions. CGMagazine and GameSpew, on the other hand, mentioned slight technical issues on PC, such as NPCs moonwalking or teleporting and voice clips playing incorrectly, but these issues did not severely impact the overall enjoyment of the game. Moving on to the Xbox One version, the critics expressed concerns about the technical performance of Mass Effect: Andromeda. The Daily Dot mentioned load times and issues with scanning planets, while VideoGamer reported widely reported tech issues. Xbox Achievements and ZTGD both criticized the game for being buggy and glitchy, with wonky animations, peculiar faces, and distracting dead eyes. However, Impulsegamer and Stevivor had a more positive outlook, mentioning that while there were some glitches and frame rate issues, the overall gaming mechanics worked well and the problems were not significant. The PlayStation 4 version of Mass Effect: Andromeda also faced technical issues according to the critics. Cheat Code Central and DarkStation described the game as one of the buggiest and broken high-profile releases in recent years, with a laundry list of issues ranging from broken quests to disembodied heads appearing in scenes. Game Informer, Game Revolution, and Slant Magazine all mentioned technical glitches, frame rate drops, visual glitches, and broken quests. However, God is a Geek and RPGamer found the game to be technically solid, with only occasional framerate issues and texture popping. RPG Fan also mentioned good technical performance and stability, aside from odd silences during dialogue caused by frequent autosaves. Overall, the critics' opinions on the technical performance of Mass Effect: Andromeda varied across all gaming platforms. While some critics experienced stability and relatively minor issues, others encountered game-breaking bugs, poor animations, and glitches that significantly impacted the gameplay experience. It is worth noting that several critics mentioned the potential for future updates and patches to address some of the technical issues, indicating that the developers were actively working on improving the game's performance.

TL;DR

technical performance

Critics had mixed feelings about Mass Effect: Andromeda's technical performance. While some platforms faced major bugs and glitches, others had minor issues like wonky animations. Developers were working on fixes, giving hope for better gameplay in the future.

Replay Value

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SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR REPLAY VALUE

Replay Score

Positive (80-100)

38%

Mixed (50-79)

62%

Negative (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the replay value.

The opinions of the critics regarding the replay value of Mass Effect: Andromeda are generally positive. Many critics, such as Wccftech, Impulsegamer, and Xbox Achievements, highlight the game's large amount of content and side quests, which provide players with the opportunity to invest a significant amount of time into the game. These side quests and choices, as mentioned by God is a Geek and RPG Fan, add to the replay value and allow players to shape the story. The ability to fully engage with the game and immerse oneself in the missions and content, as mentioned by Stevivor, is also seen as a positive aspect of the game's replay value. However, there are some negative aspects mentioned by critics. CGMagazine points out that the multiplayer mode is not necessary and is hindered by loot boxes and microtransactions, reducing the incentive to play it. DarkStation mentions that while the game offers a wealth of side quests and missions, they can eventually start to feel repetitive. Game Informer highlights that although the game offers a wealth of content and side activities, the systems don't scale well and options can feel limited. Slant Magazine also criticizes the lack of meaningful choices and consequences in the game, which may discourage replayability. Overall, the consensus among the critics is that Mass Effect: Andromeda offers a significant amount of content and side quests, providing players with the opportunity for many hours of gameplay. The ability to make choices that shape the story, as well as the inclusion of special bonuses and completionist incentives, adds to the game's replay value. However, there are some negative aspects mentioned, such as repetitive side quests, limited options, and a lack of meaningful choices and consequences. Despite these criticisms, the overall sentiment is that Mass Effect: Andromeda offers a satisfying level of replay value for players who fully engage with the game.

TL;DR

replay value

Critics praise Mass Effect: Andromeda for its vast content and replayability through side quests and choices, allowing players to shape the story. However, some criticize the unnecessary multiplayer mode with microtransactions, repetitive missions, and limited choices. Overall, the game offers hours of gameplay with completionist incentives but falls short in some areas, making it a mixed bag for replay value.

Overall Verdict

MONSTER

OVERALL SCORE DISTRIBUTION

Monster Score

Positive (80-100)

38%

Mixed (50-79)

60%

Negative (0-49)

Based on analyzing all available reviews that scored and critiqued the game.

In analyzing the opinions of multiple reviewers regarding the overall verdict of Mass Effect: Andromeda, it is evident that there are both positive and negative aspects to consider. Several critics praised the game for its enjoyable combat, dynamic missions, and interesting new setting. Game Debate commends the game for its fine Star Trek-esque adventure, while GameGrin describes it as a solid entry in the Mass Effect series with a "Mass Effect Greatest Hits" feel. MMORPG.com also highlights the game's solid foundation, with the positives outweighing the negatives. These positive aspects, such as the combat and missions, contribute to the overall enjoyment of the game. However, there are also several negative aspects that critics pointed out. GameCritics expresses disappointment, describing the game as dull, devoid of personality, and a mess on virtually every level. NZGamer mentions varying quality in writing and sidequests, as well as bugs and technical issues that detract from the overall experience. Wccftech criticizes the story, characters, and writing as disappointing, while CGMagazine criticizes the story, graphics, voice acting, and technical performance. These negative aspects, such as the lack of personality, technical issues, and disappointing story, contribute to a less favorable overall verdict. Despite the mixed opinions, the overall consensus among the critics leans towards a more positive view of Mass Effect: Andromeda. Critics such as Game Rant and Gamers' Temple emphasize that the game is enjoyable and worth playing, particularly for fans of science-fiction or BioWare RPGs. Impulsegamer praises the game for its immersive experience, good storytelling, world building, and gameplay mechanics. Stevivor goes as far as to say that the game surpasses the original Mass Effect trilogy, offering a cohesive and engaging experience. While there are criticisms and flaws mentioned, the general sentiment is that Mass Effect: Andromeda is an enjoyable game that delivers on certain levels, despite not fully realizing its potential. Overall, Mass Effect: Andromeda receives a mix of positive and negative feedback from critics. The game is praised for its enjoyable combat, dynamic missions, and interesting new setting. However, it is also criticized for lacking surprises, suffering from technical issues, and falling short in areas such as story, characters, and writing. Despite these criticisms, the general consensus is that the game is still enjoyable and worth playing, particularly for fans of the series or those who enjoy science-fiction RPGs. While it may not fully meet the ambitious objectives set for it, Mass Effect: Andromeda offers an immersive experience and delivers on certain aspects that make it a worthwhile addition to the franchise.

TL;DR

Critics have mixed opinions on Mass Effect: Andromeda. Positive aspects include enjoyable combat and missions, while negatives include a lack of personality and technical issues. Overall, critics lean towards a positive view, praising the game for its immersive experience and gameplay mechanics, despite flaws in the story and characters. In the end, Mass Effect: Andromeda is deemed enjoyable and worth playing for fans of the series, offering a solid addition to the franchise.

MONSTER

Reviews

227 reviews found

Stevivor

Xbox One

Mar 20, 2017

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Mass Effect: Andromeda is a superb game that surpasses the original Mass Effect trilogy and offers a cohesive and engaging experience.

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Impulsegamer

Xbox One

Mar 31, 2017

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Mass Effect Andromeda is a little rough around the edges, but it provides an immersive experience with good storytelling, world building, and gameplay mechanics. The graphics can be problematic at times, but overall the game delivers on most levels.

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MMORPG.com

Mar 20, 2017

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Mass Effect: Andromeda is a very solid game with a steep learning curve, but the positives outweigh the negatives.

God is a Geek

PlayStation 4

Mar 20, 2017

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Mass Effect: Andromeda is an ambitious game that succeeds for the most part. It brings back the familiar elements of the original trilogy while introducing new characters and a new frontier for the human race.

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Gamers' Temple

Xbox One

Apr 20, 2017

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Despite its shortcomings, Mass Effect: Andromeda is an enjoyable experience. The slow start and reading-heavy sections may be a drawback, but the exploration and combat make up for it. Final rating: 82%

RPGamer

PlayStation 4

Apr 3, 2017

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Mass Effect: Andromeda is a highly enjoyable game, but not as stellar as many might have hoped.

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GameGrin

Apr 5, 2017

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

The game is a solid Mass Effect entry with fun, dynamic combat, great missions, and an interesting new setting. It feels like a 'Mass Effect Greatest Hits' but is still enjoyable.

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TheSixthAxis

PlayStation 4

Mar 20, 2017

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Despite some flaws, including technical issues, the game offers a fantastic sense of exploration, deep RPG systems, and enjoyable multiplayer. The reviewer recommends not missing out on this adventure.

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Game Rant

Xbox One

Mar 27, 2017

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Mass Effect: Andromeda is far from perfect, but it is a must-play for fans of science-fiction or BioWare RPGs. The storytelling improves as the game progresses, making it a worthwhile experience in the Mass Effect universe.

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Xbox Achievements

Xbox One

Mar 20, 2017

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Despite technical issues and some bugs, Mass Effect: Andromeda is a fine return for the series with an engaging story and enjoyable gameplay

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