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Mass Effect Legendary Edition

Name: Comprehensive Review and Analysis of Mass Effect Legendary Edition
Item: Mass Effect Legendary Edition
Author: MonsterCritic Editorial Team

2021

GenresAdventure, Action, Third Person Perspective, Shooter, RPG, Strategy, Single Player

AvailableMay 14, 2021

PlatformPC, Xbox One, PlayStation 4

DeveloperBioWare

Overview

One person is all that stands between humanity and the greatest threat it’s ever faced. Relive the legend of Commander Shepard in the highly acclaimed Mass Effect trilogy with the Mass Effect Legendary Edition. Includes single-player base content and over 40 DLCs from Mass Effect, Mass Effect 2, and Mass Effect 3 games, including promo weapons, armors and packs. Experience an amazingly rich and detailed universe where your decisions have profound consequences on the action and the outcome.

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Game analysis

Monster Scorecard

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Story and Narrative

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TL;DR

Mass Effect Legendary Edition receives rave reviews for its rich narrative, deep character development, and the emotional impact of player choices. Critics highlight its world-building and DLC integration, enhancing the overall experience. However, some point out flaws in Mass Effect 3's ending and narrative coherence. Despite these drawbacks, the trilogy is celebrated as one of the best RPG narratives ever, captivating both veterans and newcomers alike.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR STORY

Story Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

97%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The overall sentiment surrounding the story of Mass Effect Legendary Edition is overwhelmingly positive, with many critics praising its depth, character development, and the emotional weight of player choices. Reviewers like PlayStation LifeStyle and Game Informer highlight the trilogy's rich narrative and the significant impact of decisions made throughout the games, emphasizing that the emotional arcs resonate deeply with players. Critics such as TheGamer and God is a Geek commend the series for its exceptional world-building and memorable characters, noting that the story remains captivating even years after its original release. Furthermore, the integration of DLCs is recognized as enhancing the overall narrative experience, with Game Over Online and Ragequit.gr pointing out how these expansions provide crucial context to the overarching plot. However, despite the acclaim, some critics have noted narrative flaws, particularly in Mass Effect 3. Riot Pixels and GameMAG mention that the ending of the trilogy does not quite meet the high expectations set by earlier installments, which has been a point of contention among fans and critics alike. Additionally, while the story remains unchanged in the remaster, Digital Chumps and Gfinity suggest that this could be a double-edged sword, as it retains both the strengths and weaknesses of the original narrative. The fragmentation of team dynamics in the third game, as pointed out by GameMAG, also indicates that not all aspects of the story were executed flawlessly. Overall, the consensus among critics is that Mass Effect Legendary Edition offers a masterful narrative experience that stands the test of time. While there are criticisms regarding certain narrative elements, the overwhelming majority of reviewers, including those from WellPlayed and Xbox Achievements, regard the trilogy as one of the best RPG narratives in gaming history. The emotional depth, complex characters, and the weight of player choices are frequently cited as key strengths that contribute to the game's legacy. Critics unanimously agree that Mass Effect remains a classic, with its storytelling prowess continuing to captivate both new and returning players alike.

TL;DR

story and narrative

Gameplay Mechanics

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TL;DR

Mass Effect Legendary Edition impresses with improved controls and combat mechanics, making the gameplay more engaging for new and returning players. Critics praise enhancements like better vehicle controls and a streamlined interface, yet many note persistent issues like clunky mechanics and outdated elements, especially in the first game. While the remaster modernizes the trilogy, it can't escape its roots, leaving some fans wanting more polish in the overall experience.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR GAMEPLAY

Gameplay Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

55%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

44%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The gameplay of Mass Effect Legendary Edition has garnered a mixed but generally positive reception from critics, particularly regarding improvements made to the original Mass Effect. Many reviewers, such as But Why Tho? and God is a Geek, noted enhancements in controls and combat mechanics, which have made the gameplay feel more responsive and engaging. Critics like We Got This Covered and LevelUp highlighted the refinements in vehicle controls, particularly for the Mako, and emphasized that the overall experience is more accessible and enjoyable for both new and returning players. Additionally, GameSpot and Push Square pointed out that the remaster has improved the user interface and combat fluidity, making battles more dynamic and less cumbersome than in the original releases. However, despite the positive feedback, many critics have pointed out significant shortcomings that detract from the overall experience. Reviewers like Siliconera and GamingBolt criticized the outdated mechanics that remain in the game, such as clunky controls and an unwieldy inventory system. The first installment, in particular, was frequently mentioned as feeling dated, with Digital Chumps and Telegraph highlighting awkward combat and imprecise cover mechanics. Critics also noted that while some gameplay elements were improved, others, like AI behavior and dialogue variety, still felt lacking, as mentioned by GameMAG and Jeuxvideo.com. Overall, the consensus among critics suggests that while Mass Effect Legendary Edition successfully modernizes several gameplay aspects, particularly in the first game, it still struggles with remnants of its age. Reviewers like C0Gconnected and Metro GameCentral acknowledged that the trilogy's gameplay evolves, with later installments benefiting from refined mechanics, but the first game remains a sticking point for many. Critics agree that the remaster strikes a balance between nostalgia and modernization, making it a worthwhile experience for fans, though it may not fully satisfy those seeking a polished, contemporary gameplay experience.

TL;DR

gameplay mechanics

Graphics and Visual Design

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TL;DR

Mass Effect Legendary Edition impresses with significant visual upgrades over the original trilogy, earning praise for enhanced textures, lighting, and character models. Critics highlight stunning improvements in Mass Effect 2 and 3, boosting immersion. However, some shortcomings remain, including issues with hair textures, facial animations, and the first game feeling dated. Despite these critiques, the overall consensus is positive, with many agreeing that the remaster revitalizes the series for both newcomers and veterans.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VISUALS

Visual Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

72%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

28%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The graphics and visual design of Mass Effect Legendary Edition have received a generally positive reception from critics, highlighting significant improvements over the original trilogy. Many reviewers, including Checkpoint Gaming and MGG, noted that the remaster brings convincing graphics to a nearly 15-year-old title, with upgrades in textures, lighting, and overall visual fidelity. Critics like Areajugones and CGMagazine praised the impressive visual upgrades, particularly in character models and environments, which enhance the immersive experience of the game. The enhancements in Mass Effect 2 and Mass Effect 3 were frequently mentioned as stunning, with critics such as PlayStation LifeStyle and God is a Geek emphasizing the successful modernization of these titles, making them visually appealing even by contemporary standards. However, not all opinions were uniformly positive, as some critics pointed out notable shortcomings. Checkpoint Gaming and Digital Chumps expressed disappointment with the visibility of upgraded textures, particularly in hair and environmental details, while others like Riot Pixels and Video Chums acknowledged that certain character models and environments still exhibit limitations. Critics such as Pure Playstation and But Why Tho? highlighted issues with facial animations, which were described as wooden or out of sync during dialogues. Additionally, some reviews noted that while the remaster improved visuals significantly, the first game still felt like a product of its time, as mentioned by PlayStation Country and Game Rant. Overall, the consensus among critics is that Mass Effect Legendary Edition successfully revitalizes the visual experience of the original trilogy, with a majority praising the enhancements that breathe new life into the series. While there are valid criticisms regarding certain dated elements and inconsistencies in character animations, the overwhelming sentiment is that the graphical upgrades are commendable and elevate the overall experience. Critics like GamingBolt and LevelUp encapsulated this sentiment well, noting that the remaster not only improves the visual quality but also enhances the immersion, making it a worthwhile experience for both new players and veterans of the series.

TL;DR

graphics and visual design

Music and Sound Design

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TL;DR

Mass Effect Legendary Edition receives high praise for its enhanced sound design and memorable score, with critics lauding improvements in audio quality and emotionally impactful tracks. Highlights include iconic pieces like "Leaving Earth," but some note issues like audio mixing flaws, inconsistencies in localization, and repetitive themes. Overall, the soundtrack significantly enriches the gaming experience, solidifying the game's status as a classic despite minor critiques.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR SOUND DESIGN

Sound Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

79%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

21%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The overall sentiment regarding the sound design and music of Mass Effect Legendary Edition is predominantly positive, with many critics praising the enhancements made to the audio experience. Reviewers from various platforms, including Atomix and Eurogamer Italy, noted significant improvements in audio quality, particularly when using modern audio equipment. Critics like COGconnected and PlayStation LifeStyle highlighted the exceptional score, emphasizing emotionally resonant tracks that enhance the storytelling throughout the trilogy. The soundtrack was frequently described as phenomenal and memorable, with specific praise for iconic pieces like "Leaving Earth" and the music associated with the galaxy map, which continues to evoke nostalgia and enrich the gaming experience. Despite the overall acclaim, some critics pointed out certain drawbacks in the sound design and music. Cubed3 mentioned issues with audio mixing that detracted from the overall experience, while GameMAG noted that the quality of the Russian voiceover was a detractor, indicating inconsistencies in localization quality. IGN France brought attention to the repetitiveness of some music themes, suggesting that it could detract from immersion. Additionally, Video Chums noted awkward pauses and audio issues in the remaster, indicating that while improvements were made, not all aspects of the audio experience were flawless. In conclusion, the consensus among critics is that Mass Effect Legendary Edition offers a notably improved audio experience, with the majority praising the sound design and music as excellent. Critics like RPGamer and MMORPG.com emphasized the emotional impact and immersive qualities of the soundtrack, while others acknowledged the technical advancements that have contributed to a richer auditory experience. Overall, while there are minor criticisms regarding specific aspects of the audio, the general sentiment is overwhelmingly positive, reinforcing the game's status as a classic in the realm of video game sound design and music.

TL;DR

music and sound design

Voice Acting

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TL;DR

The voice acting in "Mass Effect Legendary Edition" is highly praised, especially Jennifer Hale's standout performance as FemShep, which enhances character depth and emotional engagement. Critics celebrate the talented cast, including Martin Sheen and Tricia Helfer, for enriching the narrative. However, some point out flaws like tonal inconsistencies in broShep's portrayal and technical issues with lip-syncing and animations. Despite these critiques, the overall sentiment is overwhelmingly positive, affirming the voice acting as a key strength of the game.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VOICE ACTING

Acting Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

88%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

13%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The voice acting in "Mass Effect Legendary Edition" has garnered overwhelmingly positive responses from critics, highlighting its quality and the strength of its performances. Reviewers such as Checkpoint Gaming and Metro GameCentral praised the outstanding character portrayals, particularly emphasizing Jennifer Hale's work as FemShep, which is frequently described as a standout performance that enhances character interactions and emotional depth. The cast, featuring notable actors like Martin Sheen, Tricia Helfer, and Keith David, has been acknowledged for adding a layer of immersion to the game, with IGN and Hardcore Gamer noting how these performances contribute significantly to the overall narrative experience. Critics from various platforms, including RPGamer and Video Chums, echoed this sentiment, asserting that the voice acting remains one of the best aspects of the franchise, effectively bringing characters to life. However, not all feedback is entirely positive, as some critics pointed out certain shortcomings in the voice acting. COGconnected noted tonal inconsistencies in Mark Meer's portrayal of broShep, particularly in the first game, suggesting that while the voice acting is good, it shows its age compared to more recent performances. Additionally, Critical Hit raised concerns about lip-dubbing issues and unnatural character animations, which could detract from the overall experience. We Got This Covered also mentioned dialogue syncing problems and character animation issues, especially with human characters, indicating that while the voice acting is strong, technical aspects surrounding it might not meet modern standards. Overall, the consensus among critics is that the voice acting in "Mass Effect Legendary Edition" is very good, with the majority praising its quality and emotional resonance. While some critiques regarding inconsistencies and technical issues were noted, they did not overshadow the general appreciation for the performances. Reviewers like Worth Playing and RPG Site highlighted the strong voice acting as a key element that contributes to character depth and narrative engagement, reinforcing the idea that despite some flaws, the voice acting remains a significant strength of the game. The collective feedback reflects a robust endorsement of the voice work, affirming its essential role in the immersive experience of the trilogy.

TL;DR

voice acting

Technical Performance

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TL;DR

Mass Effect Legendary Edition impresses with smooth performance and high frame rates across PC, Xbox One, and PS4, but suffers from persistent bugs and glitches that mar the experience. Critics praise its visual upgrades and faster loading times, yet lament the remnants of the original game's technical flaws. Overall, it's a step forward but still needs improvement.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR TECHNICAL PERFORMANCE

Tech Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

25%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

75%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The technical performance of Mass Effect Legendary Edition has garnered a mix of praise and criticism across various gaming platforms. On PC, critics like PCMag and Gaming Age noted that the game runs smoothly with high frame rates and supports 4K resolution, although some lamented the limited graphical options. Similarly, Xbox One reviews highlighted significant improvements in loading times and overall performance, with critics such as Generación Xbox and Vandal noting the ability to run at 60 fps on newer consoles. For PS4, many reviewers, including Pure Playstation and PlayStation Country, acknowledged the smoother experience, improved load times, and overall stability, with some even calling it almost faultless technically, as noted by Metro GameCentral. However, the negatives are also apparent across all platforms. On PC, Riot Pixels and Ragequit.gr pointed out persistent bugs and crashes, with the former highlighting a lack of quality-of-life features. For PS4, critics like GamingBolt and Cubed3 reported issues such as character movement glitches and AI problems, which detracted from the gameplay experience. Xbox One reviews echoed similar sentiments, with TheGamer and GameSkinny mentioning bugs and technical issues that persisted despite the remaster's commendable efforts. Notably, some critics pointed out that the original game’s limitations still impacted the remaster, as highlighted by Gameblog.fr. The overall consensus among critics suggests that while Mass Effect Legendary Edition offers a visually impressive and generally stable experience across all platforms, it is marred by lingering technical issues. Many reviewers, including Game Informer and Checkpoint Gaming, noted that although the remaster has made strides in improving performance, bugs and glitches remain a concern. Critics generally agree that while the remaster is a step forward, it does not completely escape the technical shortcomings of its predecessors, indicating that there is still room for improvement in future updates.

TL;DR

technical performance

Replay Value

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TL;DR

Mass Effect Legendary Edition boasts impressive replay value, praised for its extensive content (over 100 hours) and cohesive narrative, especially with all DLCs included. Critics commend the ability to carry over decisions for varied story outcomes, enhancing replayability. However, some warn that dated mechanics may alienate new players, and the absence of multiplayer is a noted drawback. Overall, it’s a must-play for series fans and a solid entry for newcomers, offering nostalgic and diverse experiences.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR REPLAY VALUE

Replay Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

86%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

14%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The overall sentiment regarding the replay value of Mass Effect Legendary Edition is predominantly positive, with many critics praising the extensive content and the cohesive narrative experience it offers. Many reviews highlight the inclusion of all DLCs, which significantly enriches the gameplay, providing players with over 100 hours of content. Critics from IGN, GamesRadar+, and Hobby Consolas emphasize the variety of choices and outcomes available throughout the trilogy, enhancing the replayability factor. The ability to carry over decisions and character saves across the three games is also frequently mentioned as a major draw, allowing players to explore different story arcs and character interactions, as noted by MMORPG.com and Destructoid. Additionally, features like the Genesis interactive comic and the option to share character codes further contribute to replay value, as pointed out by Noisy Pixel. However, some critics express reservations about the replay value, particularly for new players. Game Over Online notes that the dated gameplay mechanics and lackluster NPC interactions might deter newcomers from fully engaging with the lengthy content. Riot Pixels and Ragequit.gr echo this sentiment, suggesting that while the remaster is a worthwhile purchase for fans, it lacks significant improvements that would enhance replay value. Furthermore, the absence of multiplayer, highlighted by Gaming Age, is viewed as a loss for some players who enjoyed that aspect in the original games. This sentiment is echoed by others who believe that while the remaster is enjoyable, it does not fully modernize the experience to attract a broader audience. Despite these criticisms, the overall consensus among critics is that Mass Effect Legendary Edition offers substantial replay value, especially for fans of the series. Many reviews emphasize the nostalgia factor for returning players, while also making the trilogy accessible to newcomers. Critics such as Attack of the Fanboy and Gaming Nexus assert that the ability to make impactful choices and experience the narrative in various ways makes the remaster appealing for multiple playthroughs. The combination of comprehensive content, character-driven narratives, and the inclusion of all DLCs ultimately leads to a strong endorsement of the game's replay value, positioning it as a must-play for both veterans and new players alike.

TL;DR

replay value

Overall Verdict

MONSTER

OVERALL SCORE DISTRIBUTION

Monster Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

94%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The overall sentiment regarding Mass Effect Legendary Edition is predominantly positive, with many critics praising the remaster for its ability to revitalize the beloved trilogy while making it accessible to both new players and returning fans. Reviewers like Hobby Consolas and WellPlayed highlight how the remaster successfully enhances the original experience, showcasing improved graphics and gameplay mechanics that breathe new life into the classic titles. Critics such as M3 and GameSpot commend the remaster for preserving the core essence of the original games while modernizing certain aspects, making it a must-play for RPG enthusiasts. The narrative depth and character development, which have always been hallmarks of the series, continue to shine through, as noted by reviewers like COGconnected and God is a Geek, who emphasize the emotional resonance and engaging storytelling present in the remastered collection. However, not all reviews are entirely positive, as several critics point out technical issues and design choices that detract from the overall experience. GameMAG cautions potential buyers to wait for patches due to these problems, while Ragequit.gr mentions that the remaster falls short in several areas, leading to a complex experience. Critics like Slant Magazine and TheSixthAxis note lingering mechanical issues, particularly in the first game, which may affect the enjoyment for some players. Additionally, MMORPG.com and Game Over Online express disappointment regarding the lack of certain features and question the target audience for the remaster, indicating that while the remaster is commendable, it does not fully meet the high expectations set by the franchise's legacy. Despite these criticisms, the overall consensus among the majority of reviewers is that Mass Effect Legendary Edition is a successful remaster that honors the original trilogy while providing a modernized experience. Critics such as Eurogamer Italy and Game Informer assert that it is the best way to experience the saga, appealing to both newcomers and veterans alike. The remaster is widely regarded as a worthwhile purchase, with many reviewers recommending it highly, including those from Press Start Australia and Atomix, who describe it as an essential experience for fans of the franchise. Overall, while there are notable issues, the overwhelming sentiment is that Mass Effect Legendary Edition delivers a compelling and nostalgic journey through one of gaming's most iconic series.

TL;DR

Mass Effect Legendary Edition is largely praised for revitalizing the classic trilogy with enhanced graphics and gameplay, making it accessible for both new and returning fans. Critics celebrate its emotional storytelling and character depth, deeming it essential for RPG lovers. However, some technical issues and design flaws have led to mixed reviews, with recommendations to wait for patches. Despite these drawbacks, the consensus is that the remaster successfully honors the original games and is a worthwhile purchase for fans of the series.

MONSTER

Reviews

156 reviews found

100

Attack of the Fanboy

PlayStation 4

May 13, 2021

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

Mass Effect Legendary Edition is a fantastic collection that successfully enhances the original trilogy, making it the definitive way to experience these classic games.

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100

We Got This Covered

Xbox One

Jun 3, 2021

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

Mass Effect: Legendary Edition is deemed an excellent remaster that retains the essence of the original trilogy while making necessary improvements, making it a must-play for fans.

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100

Telegraph

Xbox One

Jun 8, 2021

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

Mass Effect Legendary Edition successfully rekindles the magic of the original trilogy, with significant improvements while maintaining the core investment in its characters and story.

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100

GameOver.gr

Xbox One

May 21, 2021

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

Mass Effect: Legendary Edition is a must-play for newcomers and a nostalgic experience for veterans, despite some missed opportunities for improvement.

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Power Unlimited

Xbox One

May 20, 2021

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

Mass Effect: Legendary Edition is een emotioneel, spectaculair en overweldigend sci-fi-epos

Press Start Australia

Xbox One

May 13, 2021

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

Mass Effect: Legendary Edition is hailed as one of the best re-releases, successfully enhancing the original experience while celebrating the beloved story of Commander Shepard.

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CGMagazine

PlayStation 4

May 27, 2021

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

The review considers Mass Effect Legendary Edition as one of the finest remasters made to-date, praising its implementation of optional content and presentation overhaul.

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SomosXbox

Xbox One

May 13, 2021

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

Mass Effect: Legendary Edition is highly recommended for both returning players and newcomers due to its deep improvements and the timeless quality of the original trilogy.

XGN

May 26, 2021

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

Mass Effect Legendary Edition is a must-have for sci-fi and RPG fans, providing substantial upgrades and a compelling experience despite some outdated gameplay.

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Generación Xbox

Xbox One

May 13, 2021

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

Mass Effect Legendary Edition is a magnificent compilation that successfully revitalizes the beloved trilogy, making it accessible for both returning fans and newcomers.

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