Should I Start with Mass Effect 1 or 2?
As a newcomer to the critically acclaimed Mass Effect series, deciding where to begin can be a daunting task. With three main games in the series, each one building upon the previous installment, it’s essential to know which game to play first. In this article, we’ll explore the benefits of starting with Mass Effect 1, rather than jumping straight into Mass Effect 2.
The Canonicity of Mass Effect
Before we dive into the games themselves, it’s crucial to understand the storyline of the Mass Effect universe. The series follows the adventures of Commander Shepard, a soldier who becomes embroiled in a fight to save the galaxy from various threats. Mass Effect 1 serves as the foundation for the entire series, introducing us to the universe, the characters, and the galaxy-spanning conflicts that permeate the series.
Mass Effect 1’s Stronger Story
The original Mass Effect 1 game has several advantages over its sequels. Firstly, the narrative is more character-driven, with a stronger focus on Commander Shepard’s journey from a normal human to the leader of a galaxy-saving expedition. This character-driven approach allows players to build a deeper connection with their protagonist, making the series’ emotional highs and lows more impactful.
Missing the Citadel
Another essential aspect of Mass Effect 1 is its inclusion of the Citadel. The Citadel is a gathering place for alien species in the Mass Effect universe, where players can interact with various characters, explore vendors, and even participate in a mini-game or two. Mass Effect 2, on the other hand, doesn’t feature the Citadel, which may lead to a sense of disconnection from the series’ richly detailed world.
Experiencing the Origins
Playing Mass Effect 1 allows players to experience the origins of key events and characters in the series. By understanding how the universe came to be, players can better appreciate the consequences of their actions in subsequent games.
Key Characters and Loyalty
The characters you encounter in Mass Effect 1 play a crucial role in the larger narrative. Players must cultivate relationships with key characters like Kaidan Alenko, Ashley Williams, Liara T’Soni, and Urdnot Wrex, among others. Building these relationships is a crucial aspect of the gameplay experience, as it grants access to additional abilities and plotlines in future installments.
A Cleaner Experience
Starting with Mass Effect 1 means players can experience the original story without any prior knowledge or expectations. This also means that players can get accustomed to the gameplay mechanics and controls without being thrown into the thick of combat in Mass Effect 2.
Timeline and Chronology
While Mass Effect 1 is a more introspective game, Mass Effect 2 accelerates the pace, launching into a series of explosive missions and combat encounters. Jumping into Mass Effect 2 would mean missing the more tranquil and character-driven moments present in the first game, potentially disrupting the narrative cohesion.
A Brief but Intense Game
Despite being the first game, Mass Effect 1 is surprisingly compact and to the point. You can complete the main campaign in around 20 hours, making it an approachable and bite-sized package. This concise nature can make it an excellent introductory experience for new players, as it sets the foundation for the rest of the series.
In Summary
In conclusion, if you’re new to the Mass Effect series, there’s no better place to start than Mass Effect 1. Not only does it introduce us to the world and its characters, but it offers a more character-driven and story-focused experience that showcases the series’ best features. By playing Mass Effect 1 first, you’ll be treated to a richer, more immersive experience that sets the stage for the rest of the series.
Tips and Tricks
Here’s a quick summary of benefits to starting with Mass Effect 1:
• Experience the Original Story: Understand the origin of key events and characters in the series.
• Build Relationships: Create connections with key characters for added abilities and plotlines.
• Clean Start: Begin with a less action-oriented game, without the pressure of combat’s fast-paced pace.
• Compact Experience: A concise and manageable main campaign.
• Citadel’s Rich History: Access the Citadel, a symbol of the series’ complex and detailed world.
The Mass Effect series is beloved for its engaging storylines, memorable characters, and engaging gameplay. By starting with Mass Effect 1, you’ll create a strong foundation for the rest of the series. So, if you haven’t already, join Commander Shepard on his epic quest to save the galaxy in the original Mass Effect.