Revitalizing Mass Effect: How the Upcoming Installment Must Rectify Andromeda's Flaws

Mass Effect 4, the highly anticipated installment of the BioWare sci-fi RPG series, has fans excited to revisit the beloved galaxy after years of uncertainty. While the original game impressed with its cinematic and action RPG elements, later entries such as Mass Effect 3 and Mass Effect: Andromeda faced controversies. Andromeda, the most recent release excluding the Legendary Edition, is often considered the weakest point of the series as it lacked the elements that initially drew players in. However, with Mass Effect 4, there is a chance for a remarkable comeback if the developers learn from the mistakes of the previous game.

Mass Effect: Andromeda, though not as terrible as some have claimed, unfortunately suffered from the overshadowing presence of its flaws. While it boasted exceptional combat, the game was hindered by rushed development that compromised its cinematic quality. This resulted in awkward facial animations that were only partially rectified through patches, repetitive quests, and a lack of a captivating villain. Additionally, the game's companions fell short in a significant aspect.

Mass Effect: Andromeda's Party Lacked Originality

The Mass Effect series is renowned for its cinematic presentation, which has pushed the boundaries of gaming. Additionally, the series is known for its rich lore and the presence of diverse alien races within its universe. From Asari to Krogan, each race has contributed to the unique identity of the series, and the inclusion of new species in each game has added a distinct flavor. Andromeda, for example, introduced Jaal and the Angara, while also adhering to the established archetypes for the rest of the party.

However, some players may have anticipated a more significant departure from the status quo when it came to the companions in Andromeda, given the game's setting in a new galaxy. Yet, the companions ultimately followed familiar patterns. For instance, Drak, a Krogan veteran, resembled Mass Effect's Wrex in terms of concept. Cora and Liam were another human duo, akin to Kaidan and Ashley or Miranda and Jacob. Even Vetra, as a female Turian, failed to impress players who were already familiar with Nyreen Kandros. Even the outsider status of Jaal was reminiscent of Javik, and Peebee, as another lone Asari, downplayed her unique characteristics. The original trilogy's companions possessed a level of creativity that proved difficult to replicate, but the next game has the potential to change this.

Mass Effect 4 Can Learn From Andromeda's Mistakes

As Mass Effect 4 takes place in a galaxy recovering from the "Destroy" ending of Mass Effect 3, it presents an excellent opportunity to introduce new and diverse party members. The aftermath of the ending means that the circumstances for each race will be different now, allowing for unique character representations. For example, a Salarian soldier or a Turian biotic expert could defy expectations while also reflecting the fragmented state of civilization. Additionally, less humanoid races such as the Elcor, Hanar, Volus, or even Vorcha could finally be included, fulfilling fans' desires for diverse perspectives.

Although there is much speculation about how BioWare will approach the characters in Mass Effect 4, it remains a mystery. With the uncertain fate of Commander Shepard, some fans have even considered the possibility of Liara taking on the role of the protagonist, especially given her appearance in the announcement trailer. Regardless of whether the game follows the same party structure as previous titles, Mass Effect 4 is likely to bring significant changes to the series as it explores the post-Reaper timeline.

Mass Effect 4 is in development.