Electronic Arts is in the process of shipping BioWare’s Mass Effect 2 to stores nationwide right now, and based on the 30+ reviews that have already been filed by critics, the epic RPG is now the second highest rated Xbox 360 title ever, according to Metacritic. Technically, Rockstar’s GTA IV is #1 with a score of 98, while Mass Effect 2 is tied for second with 2K’s BioShock and Valve’s The Orange Box compilation.
Of course, as extra reviews come in over the next few days, it’s possible that Mass Effect 2’s final rating could change, but either way it’s clear that BioWare really outdid themselves this time. A recent interview indicated that the Mass Effect team made sure to address every single issue raised by feedback from players and critics to essentially make the sequel “critic proof.”
Dr. Ray Muzyka, co-founder, BioWare and Group General Manager of the RPG/MMO Group of EA commented on the launch of Mass Effect 2 today: “Rich, immersive worlds, compelling characters and stories, and intense action are some of the hallmarks of BioWare games, and Mass Effect 2 truly raises the bar in every area. I’m incredibly proud of our team, who worked passionately to deliver a very high quality game for our fans. This epic sequel in the stunning Mass Effect universe is an extraordinary accomplishment, one which we can’t wait to get into the hands of a world-wide audience!”
As with their previous release, Dragon Age, BioWare is planning strong DLC support for Mass Effect 2. Purchasers of the game will be able to activate the ‘Cerberus Network’, which serves as an in-game portal to offer downloadable content and news at no extra charge. The first piece of DLC is available today, featuring a new mission around the Normandy crash site, and BioWare plans to announce more content in the “coming weeks.”
Interestingly, in what seems to be a way to combat used game sales, BioWare made sure that the ‘Cerberus Network’ is available only to people who purchase the game new. If you buy a used copy, you can activate ‘Cerberus Network’ through a one-time, in-game purchase of an activation code for 1200 MS points on the Xbox 360 and $15 on the PC.
Source: James Brightman from Industrygamers.com
