14 Games Similar To The Mass Effect Series
Mass Effect, developed by BioWare, is an outstanding science fiction role-playing game (RPG) trilogy that exemplifies masterful storytelling, compelling world-building, and player choice. With its rich universe, engaging characters, and epic storytelling, Mass Effect revolutionized the RPG genre and left an indelible mark on the history of the gaming industry. You are about to familiarize yourself with similar games.
14. Gears 5
- Similarity: 20 %
- Metacritic: link
- Year of release: 2011
- Game play time: 35 hours
- Trailer: link
- Review: IGN
Gears 5's gameplay stays true to the series' roots, offering fast-paced cover-based shooting mechanics that encourage strategic thinking and teamwork. Unfortunately, that's where the similarities to Mass Effect end. Players take the role of hardened soldiers armed with a variety of powerful weapons and accompanied by partners controlled by artificial intelligence or humans. Combat encounters are intense and satisfying, with weapons and explosive scenes causing an adrenaline rush. The addition of new gameplay elements, such as the ability to navigate the open world and control mechanical pedometers, brings variety and freshness to the overall experience. The multiplayer component of Gears 5 offers a range of modes for different play styles and preferences. Classic competitive multiplayer modes such as team deathmatch and King of the Hill provide a fast and intense pace of play. The cooperative Horde mode allows players to team up and battle waves of enemies, testing teamwork and strategy. A new Escape mode, in which players must infiltrate enemy fortresses and escape before they are consumed by deadly gas, adds an exciting and unique multiplayer experience.
13. Warframe
- Similarity: 20 %
- Metacritic: link
- Year of release: 2013
- Game play time: 100 hours
- Trailer: link
- Review: IGN
In Warframe, players take the role of powerful space ninjas known as Tenno, who awaken from cryosleep and discover that the galaxy is engulfed in a war between factions. The game's story and world-building provide a compelling backdrop for compelling gameplay. Although the narrative is inferior to the Mass Effect story, the fascinating universe and intriguing characters create a sense of intrigue and discovery. The gameplay is where the game really shines. Players can choose from a diverse list of warframes, each with their own unique abilities and play styles. Combat is fast-paced, fluid, and highly satisfying, allowing players to employ devastating combos and acrobatic maneuvers against hordes of enemies. Movement options including wall-running and aerial acrobatics add to the dynamic and engaging gameplay.
12. Dragon Age: Inquisition
Players can choose from a variety of classes and customize their characters' abilities, allowing for different play styles and strategic approaches to combat encounters. Combat is exciting in its own right, requiring coordination between team members and exploiting enemy weaknesses. Additional depth is added by the inclusion of the tactical camera mode, which allows you to plan and execute strategic maneuvers in the heat of battle. As in the Mass Effect series, one of the strengths of Dragon Age: Inquisition is its deep and intricate plot. The game is a complex narrative filled with political intrigue, religious conflict, and the looming threat of a cataclysmic event known as the Rift. The choices the player makes throughout the game have far-reaching consequences: they affect relationships with companions, shape the world, and determine the outcome of major events. The game's scenario is superb: well-developed characters, compelling dialog, morally ambiguous decisions that question the player's beliefs and values. The companions in Inquisition are a distinct detail of the game, each with unique personalities, motivations, and personal quests. Interacting with them and observing their individual storylines adds depth and emotional weight to the game. Conversations between party members during exploration and combat further enhances the sense of camaraderie and creates the feeling of a cohesive group. Dragon Age: Inquisition boasts a wealth of content: numerous side quests, exploration opportunities, and optional missions expand the world and provide additional context for the main storyline. Not space and planets, but the atmosphere is similar.
11. Destiny 2
- Similarity: 40 %
- Metacritic: link
- Year of release: 2017
- Game play time: 100 hours
- Trailer: link
- Review: IGN
The plot has players traveling across the stars, protecting humanity from various threats in a post-apocalyptic setting. Despite the fact that the narrative does not achieve the same interest as in the Mass Effect series, it is still able to captivate with its rich history and epic scope. The game's universe is filled with intriguing characters, factions and mysteries yet to be revealed, creating a sense of wonder and discovery. The gameplay is based on excellent shooting mechanics. Players take on the role of Guardians - mighty warriors armed with futuristic weapons and unique abilities. Combat is fast-paced, responsive and highly satisfying, offering a wide range of play styles to suit individual preferences. An emphasis on cooperative play allows players to team up with friends or join forces with other Guardians in challenging multiplayer games such as raids, fostering a sense of camaraderie and shared achievement. One of the main features of Destiny 2 is its looter aspect. The game features a vast array of weapons, armor, and gear that can be collected and customized. The pursuit of rare and powerful items becomes a driving force for players as they strive to improve their characters and complete increasingly difficult challenges. The mining system, while prone to balancing issues, adds an extra level of exciting progression and customization to the gameplay.
10. ELEX II
ELEX II continues the story of its predecessor, exploring the aftermath of a cataclysmic event and the struggle for power and survival in a harsh and unforgiving environment. The game offers a branching narrative where the player's choices have a lasting impact on the world and its inhabitants. The concept of choices and consequences gives the game depth and replayability, encouraging the player to explore different paths and options. The world of ELEX II is breathtaking, with a variety of landscapes, ruins and settlements showcasing the game's detailed artwork. From sprawling cities to desolate wastelands, the environments evoke a sense of immersion in the game and provide opportunities to make discoveries as you travel through the open world. However, it's worth noting that the graphics, while perfectly acceptable, fall short of other modern RPGs like Mass Effect. Gameplay combines combat and role-playing mechanics. Players can choose different character classes and develop their skills and abilities to suit their play style. Combat itself can be challenging and enjoyable, emphasizing timing, evasion, and the use of various weapons. One of the features of ELEX II is the faction system. Players can join different factions, each with their own goals, ideology and quests. This adds depth and freedom of choice to the gameplay, allowing players to navigate the tangled web of faction politics, form alliances and compete with each other. The faction system contributes to the replayability of the game, as different factions offer unique quests and storylines.
9. Marvel's Guardians of the Galaxy
- Similarity: 60 %
- Metacritic: link
- Year of release: 2014
- Game play time: 25 hours
- Trailer: link
- Review: IGN
Players will step into the shoes of Star Lord, who leads a motley group of misfits known as the Guardians of the Galaxy. The game's narrative takes players on an epic journey through space, battling intergalactic threats and unraveling a compelling story about friendship, family and saving the universe. Of particular note is the script, which conveys the humor, charm and camaraderie of the Guardians. The skirmishes between the characters are witty and entertaining. While the game's story may not be that great, it is an enjoyable and well-paced adventure that will appeal to Marvel and Mass Effect fans alike.
8. Star Wars Jedi: Survivor
- Similarity: 60 %
- Metacritic: link
- Year of release: 2023
- Game play time: 30 hours
- Trailer: link
- Review: IGN
Set in the aftermath of Order 66, Star Wars Jedi: Survivor tells the story of a Jedi Padawan in a galaxy under the oppressive rule of the Empire. The game's narrative touches on themes of survival, redemption, and the struggle between the light and dark sides of the Force. The story is well crafted, immersing players in a desperate struggle for survival while delving into the emotional and moral dilemmas faced by the protagonist. While the narrative isn't as interesting as some RPGs like Mass Effect, it effectively captures the essence of the Star Wars universe and provides an engaging and enjoyable experience. The game mechanics of Star Wars Jedi: Survivor are a combination of intense lightsaber combat, exploration and utilization of Force abilities. Players unleash their Jedi skills in exciting and dynamic combat encounters, defeating opponents with a variety of lightsaber techniques and Force abilities. Combat is fluid and enjoyable, requiring skillful timing and strategic thinking to overcome challenges. The inclusion of exploration elements, such as moving through a variety of locations and uncovering secrets, adds to the game's sense of discovery and immersive gameplay.
7. Horizon Forbidden West
- Similarity: 70 %
- Metacritic: link
- Year of release: 2022
- Game play time: 30 hours
- Trailer: link
- Review: IGN
The game will take players on an epic journey through a bright and lush post-apocalyptic world where humanity struggles to survive amidst the ruins of a forgotten civilization. The game's narrative is a rich and compelling story, delving deeper into the mysteries of this world and the protagonist's search for the truth. The game's script is excellent, filled with memorable characters, emotional moments and thought-provoking themes, absolutely as good as Mass Effect's story. Visually, Horizon Forbidden West is a masterpiece. The game's stunning graphics bring the world to life with meticulous attention to detail. From dense forests and sprawling deserts to underwater depths and ancient ruins, each location is a visual marvel that showcases the full power of modern technology. Dynamic lighting, realistic weather effects, and lifelike character animation contribute to an immersive atmosphere that transports the player to a world full of beauty and danger. The combat mechanics are smooth, enjoyable and offer a variety of approaches. The protagonist's versatile arsenal and her ability to control vehicles add interest and strategic options to battles, making each encounter unique and exciting. One of the distinguishing features of Horizon Forbidden West is the open world. The game world is vast and filled with many quests, side quests and secrets waiting to be discovered.
6. Parkan 2
In Parkan 2, the player takes on the role of a spaceship pilot navigating a dynamic and open galaxy. The core gameplay of the game is based on space battles, trade and exploration. Players can choose their own path: to participate in intense battles, to fulfill trade missions or to discover secrets in the cosmic expanses. The non-linear structure of the game gives the player a sense of freedom and autonomy, giving him various opportunities to develop and shape his own space journey. The game features elements such as realistic physics, orbital mechanics and fuel management, which gives the game added complexity and realism. Players must carefully manage resources and plan their actions in order to survive and succeed in the unforgiving depths of space. This level of realism may appeal to simulation fans and those looking for a more challenging and immersive spaceflight experience. Parkan 2 offers a variety of spaceships, each with their own strengths and weaknesses. From nimble fighters to heavily armed capital ships, the player can choose a vessel that suits their play style. The storyline and character development, while present in the game, does not achieve the same depth and emotional resonance as in the Mass Effect series. The narrative serves as a backdrop to the gameplay, setting a loose framework for the player's actions and decisions.
5. Star Wars: Knights of the Old Republic II: The Sith Lords
Set in the iconic Star Wars universe, The Sith Lords continues the epic saga begun in the first game and focuses on the aftermath of the Jedi Civil War. The game's narrative is triumphant, exploring the nature of the Force, the conflict between the light and dark sides, and the complexities of redemption and betrayal. The choices the player makes throughout the game have profound consequences, shaping the story and relationships with other characters. The game's script is exceptionally well-crafted, tackling thought-provoking themes and presenting players with complex moral dilemmas that challenge their notions of good and evil. Quite on par with the Mass Effect storyline. Players can customize their character's abilities and choose from a wide range of Force abilities, allowing for varied gameplay and character development. Combat encounters are exciting and require tactical thinking, especially when facing formidable Sith opponents. Each character has their own unique story, motivation, and perspective on the Force. Memorable characters, including the enigmatic Kreia and the conflicted Atton Rand, develop and grow throughout the game, making every interaction and conversation with them delightful. The script and voice acting bring these characters to life, adding depth and emotional resonance to their stories.
4. Halo Infinite
- Similarity: 80 %
- Metacritic: link
- Year of release: 2021
- Game play time: 20 hours
- Trailer: link
- Review: IGN
Halo Infinite's single-player campaign features a compelling story that continues the epic tale established in previous games (although Mass Effect does have a more interesting plot). The narrative explores the conflict between humanity and the alien forces of the "Exiles", offering a combination of tense action, interesting characters and thought-provoking themes. While the story has some memorable moments, it sometimes fails to keep up with the pace and character development, leaving some aspects under-explored. One of the main features of Halo Infinite is its strong multiplayer component. The game offers a number of multiplayer modes, including classics such as team deathmatch and objective-based modes, as well as new additions such as Big Team Battle. The multiplayer is fast-paced, addictive and finely tuned, with plenty of customization options and progression systems to keep players engaged. The inclusion of a free multiplayer mode in the game ensures an active player base and promises a long-lasting multiplayer experience.
3. No Man’s Sky
- Similarity: 80 %
- Metacritic: link
- Year of release: 2016
- Game play time: 90 hours
- Trailer: link
- Review: IGN
The game's procedurally generated universe ensures that each player has a unique experience: they have an unfathomable number of planets to explore and countless secrets to uncover. The sense of awe and wonder that arises when discovering new worlds, each with its own ecosystems and surprises, is a testament to the game's scope. The exploration aspect of No Man's Sky is what makes the game truly strong. From the moment players set foot on the first planet, they are immersed in a vast and breathtaking sandbox. The game's vastness and attention to detail create a sense of scale and wonder as players traverse a variety of landscapes, encounter outlandish creatures, and uncover hidden resources. The sheer variety of planets, each with its own set of unique biomes, weather systems, and geological formations, keeps the interest in exploration alive. In addition to exploration and resource management, No Man's Sky features space battles, trading, and interaction with aliens. Players can engage in battles with enemy ships, conduct interstellar trade, and interact with various alien races, each with their own language and culture. Even though the combat mechanics don't reach the level of Mass Effect, it's still a joy to shoot. No Man's Sky has come a long way since its release, receiving significant updates and improvements that have addressed many of the criticisms of the game. The addition of multiplayer functionality, base building, and a stronger narrative structure have improved the overall experience and provided players with additional opportunities for interaction and social interaction.
2. The Outer Worlds
- Similarity: 80 %
- Metacritic: link
- Year of release: 2019
- Game play time: 30 hours
- Trailer: link
- Review: IGN
The game presents players with a richly realized world of the distant future, where megacorporations rule colonized planets. The game's narrative touches on themes of capitalism, corporate control, and individual choice. Of particular note is the script, with witty and sarcastic dialog providing social commentary while maintaining a lighthearted tone. The game's satirical approach cleverly exposes the absurdity of unchecked capitalism, asking players to navigate a morally complex world filled with difficult decisions. This moment is absolutely not in the style of the Mass Effect series, but this game is still a must-have due to its general similarities, as will be discussed later. The Outer Worlds game mechanics are reminiscent of classic RPGs with a focus on player choice and character development. Players can create their own unique character, customize their skills, attributes, and abilities. These choices directly affect gameplay, allowing for different approaches to combat, stealth, and dialog. Branching storylines and dialog options create a sense of autonomy, giving the player the ability to shape the world and influence the lives of the characters they encounter.
1. Starfield
- Similarity: 90 %
- Metacritic: link
- Year of release: 2023
- Game play time: 70 hours
- Trailer: link
- Review: IGN
Starfield is based on exploration, allowing players to travel through vast and diverse star systems, discover new planets and engage in exciting battles. The game promises a seamless blend of planet exploration, spaceship piloting and firefighting. The ability to freely explore and interact with a dynamic universe is an interesting prospect for players looking to immerse themselves in a vast sci-fi world. Bethesda Game Studios is known for its detailed and interactive worlds, and Starfield continues that tradition. From resource management to upgrading your own spaceship, the game is designed to offer a range of gameplay options to suit different play styles. Gamers and fans of the Mass Effect series have every reason to be excited about the release of Starfield and venture into the uncharted depths of space.
