Mass Effect
Mass Effect is a 2007 role-playing game developed by BioWare, launching one of the most influential science-fiction series in gaming. Players command Commander Shepard aboard the starship Normandy, uniting a diverse crew to stop an ancient machine threat, the Reapers, looming over the galaxy.
The game fused third-person shooting with deep conversation systems, where a branching dialogue wheel and a morality scale of Paragon and Renegade choices shaped relationships and outcomes. Squad members like Garrus, Wrex, and Liara could be recruited, equipped, and romanced, while biotic powers added tactical layers to combat. Its cinematic presentation, memorable characters, and richly detailed universe of alien species and codex lore set a new standard for interactive storytelling and player agency.
Mass Effect spawned a celebrated trilogy renowned for carrying player decisions across games, so that saves imported into later entries. The original and its sequels were later bundled into a remastered collection with visual and gameplay improvements, making it easy to start the saga on modern hardware.
Play it today
Modern alternatives to Mass Effect, with the devices they run on and their price. Ordered editorially by how well each one stands in for the original, with community votes weighted in as they accumulate.
Prices, platform availability and Steam Deck compatibility can change at any time. Always check the store page before buying.
The Outer Worlds
€ 29,99A witty first-person sci-fi RPG with strong companions and choice.
The Outer Worlds runs on PC. Not available on Mac, Linux, iPhone, iPad, Android phone, Android tablet, PlayStation, Xbox, Switch. It is Steam Deck Verified.
Mass Effect Legendary Edition
€ 59,99The remastered trilogy with all three games and improvements.
Mass Effect Legendary Edition runs on PC. Not available on Mac, Linux, iPhone, iPad, Android phone, Android tablet, PlayStation, Xbox, Switch. It is Steam Deck Playable.
Starfield
€ 69,99A vast space RPG of exploration, ships and factions across the stars.
Starfield runs on PC. Not available on Mac, Linux, iPhone, iPad, Android phone, Android tablet, PlayStation, Xbox, Switch. It is Steam Deck Unsupported.
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