Joystiq http://www.joystiq.com Joystiq http://www.blogsmithmedia.com/http://www.joystiq.com/media/feedlogo.gif Joystiq http://www.joystiq.com en-us Copyright 2013 Weblogs, Inc. The contents of this feed are available for non-commercial use only. Blogsmith http://www.blogsmith.com/<![CDATA[Limited edition Mass Effect 3 Paladin pistol replica available for pre-order]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/08/limited-edition-mass-effect-3-paladin-pistol-replica-available-f/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/08/limited-edition-mass-effect-3-paladin-pistol-replica-available-f/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/08/limited-edition-mass-effect-3-paladin-pistol-replica-available-f/#commentsLimited edition Mass Effect 3 Paladin pistol replica available for preorder
BioWare has just revealed this snazzy real-life replica version of Mass Effect 3's M-77 Paladin pistol, available for pre-order today. The weapon weighs 7 pounds, is hand-finished and hand-painted, and is one of a set of only 200 made by collectible firm Triforce.

Buying one for yourself will run you a total of $400: You'll need to put down $200 now to reserve your own fake space gun, and then another $200 when it's ready to go, which is expected to be later this year. That's not cheap, but then again nobody said fighting off the Reaper Invasion would be.

JoystiqLimited edition Mass Effect 3 Paladin pistol replica available for pre-order originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 08 May 2013 22:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>biowarebioware-storemass-effect-3microsoftpaladinpcpistolplaystationps3real-lifereplicastoretriforceweaponxboxWed, 08 May 2013 22:30:00 EST<![CDATA[BioWare Edmonton and producer Casey Hudson working on 'a whole new fictional universe']]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/03/24/bioware-edmonton-and-producer-casey-hudson-working-on-a-whole-n/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/03/24/bioware-edmonton-and-producer-casey-hudson-working-on-a-whole-n/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/03/24/bioware-edmonton-and-producer-casey-hudson-working-on-a-whole-n/#comments BioWare Edmonton and Casey Hudson working on new IPDuring a panel this weekend at PAX East, Mass Effect producer Casey Hudson revealed that his team at BioWare Edmonton has started work on "a whole new fictional universe." Other details weren't shared, except that Hudson said that he and BioWare's Senior Creative Director Preston Watamaniuk are going to be "building something new" together.

Hudson oversaw Mass Effect 3 as an executive producer, and he says he'll still serve that role on the next Mass Effect title. But that game is being developed at BioWare Montreal, so Hudson's team at BioWare Edmonton has moved on to something completely new. Hopefully we'll hear more about it soon.

JoystiqBioWare Edmonton and producer Casey Hudson working on 'a whole new fictional universe' originally appeared on Joystiq on Sun, 24 Mar 2013 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bioware-edmontonbioware-montrealcasey-hudsonmass-effectmass-effect-3newnew-ipnew-titlepax-eastpax-east-2013pcpreston-watamaniukuniverseSun, 24 Mar 2013 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Mass Effect 3's 'Citadel' DLC demonstrates the franchise's messy, wonderful soul]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/03/20/mass-effect-3s-citadel-dlc-demonstrates-the-franchises-messy/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/03/20/mass-effect-3s-citadel-dlc-demonstrates-the-franchises-messy/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/03/20/mass-effect-3s-citadel-dlc-demonstrates-the-franchises-messy/#commentsThis is a weekly column from freelancer Rowan Kaiser, which focuses on "Western" role-playing games: their stories, their histories, their mechanics, their insanity, and their inanity.

Mass Effect 3's 'Citadel' DLC demonstrates the franchise's messy, wonderful soul
One of the reasons that the Mass Effect series has been one of the most-discussed franchises of the generation is because the games are many different things to many different people. They're science-fiction epics. They're cover-based shooters. They're dating sims. They're long-term serialized stories. They're slowly wandering through cities in space, engaging in long conversations. They're tough battles against overwhelming odds.

The core divide is between the self-serious saga of Shepard versus the Reapers that the franchise attempts to convey, and the entertaining - if slightly goofy - glorious mess that some perceive it to be. The final story-based expansion for the series, the recently-released 'Citadel' add-on, demonstrates how big that divide can be and then it bridges the gap.

Gallery: Mass Effect 3 - Citadel

Continue reading Mass Effect 3's 'Citadel' DLC demonstrates the franchise's messy, wonderful soul

JoystiqMass Effect 3's 'Citadel' DLC demonstrates the franchise's messy, wonderful soul originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 20 Mar 2013 16:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>BioWareDLCDownloadable-ContentEAElectronic-Artsmass-effect-3microsoftOpinionpcplaystationps3xboxWed, 20 Mar 2013 16:45:00 EST<![CDATA[Mass Effect series for PC on sale via Origin through March 12]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/03/09/mass-effect-series-for-pc-on-sale-via-origin-through-march-12/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/03/09/mass-effect-series-for-pc-on-sale-via-origin-through-march-12/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/03/09/mass-effect-series-for-pc-on-sale-via-origin-through-march-12/#comments Mass Effect series on sale via Origin through March 12

The last iteration of the Mass Effect series went on sale one year ago this week, and to celebrate, EA is offering a big sale on all three versions of the game over on Origin. You can grab the original Mass Effect for just $7, the critically acclaimed Mass Effect 2 for $10, or a digital deluxe edition of the third game for $15, all about half off the standard prices.

Or if you haven't yet taken a trip aboard the Normandy, the whole trilogy is on sale for only $25, which is less than half what it would usually cost. That's a whole lot of excellent gaming hours, but then again, you'll need something to do while waiting for those SimCity servers, right?

[Thanks, Alex]

JoystiqMass Effect series for PC on sale via Origin through March 12 originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 09 Mar 2013 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>anniversarybiowareeaelectronic-artsmass-effectmass-effect-2mass-effect-3mass-effect-trilogyoriginpcsaleSat, 09 Mar 2013 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Mass Effect 3 hosts a five-day multiplayer event this week]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/03/06/mass-effect-3-hosts-a-five-day-multiplayer-event-this-week/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/03/06/mass-effect-3-hosts-a-five-day-multiplayer-event-this-week/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/03/06/mass-effect-3-hosts-a-five-day-multiplayer-event-this-week/#comments Mass Effect 3 hosts a fiveday multiplayer event this weekBioWare has announced another Mass Effect 3 multiplayer event, but this is no standard combat skirmish: Admiral Hackett says this is "the largest-scale attack in the brief history of this war."

Instead of just a weekend special, Operation Lodestar will last from today through March 10, which means you'll have five days to complete all three tiers, and earn three Commendation packs and a special banner.

To pick up all three rewards, players will need to finish and extract from missions against all four enemy factions on Platinum difficulty. Extracting on any difficulty wins you the first award, and beating Silver difficulty wins the second. It'll be good practice for taking on the Citadel DLC, which you can also find in Mass Effect 3 starting this week.

JoystiqMass Effect 3 hosts a five-day multiplayer event this week originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 06 Mar 2013 03:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>commander-shepardeventfive-daymass-effectmass-effect-3microsoftmultiplayern7operation-lodestarpcplaystationps3xboxWed, 06 Mar 2013 03:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Mass Effect 3 Citadel DLC trailer features Kodak moment]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/03/04/mass-effect-3-citadel-dlc-trailer-features-kodak-moment/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/03/04/mass-effect-3-citadel-dlc-trailer-features-kodak-moment/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/03/04/mass-effect-3-citadel-dlc-trailer-features-kodak-moment/#comments

Mass Effect 3's final piece of single-player downloadable content, Citadel, will be available tomorrow, March 5, for $15 (1200 MS Points). The pack reconnects Shepard with past crew mates for one final adventure on the Citadel. Expect the ME3 GOTY bundle by year's end.

Continue reading Mass Effect 3 Citadel DLC trailer features Kodak moment

JoystiqMass Effect 3 Citadel DLC trailer features Kodak moment originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 04 Mar 2013 14:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>citadelmass-effect-3microsoftpcplaystationps3xboxMon, 04 Mar 2013 14:45:00 EST<![CDATA[PSA: Mass Effect 3 Reckoning DLC out today, here's what it entails]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/02/26/psa-mass-effect-3-reckoning-dlc-out-today-heres-what-it-entai/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/02/26/psa-mass-effect-3-reckoning-dlc-out-today-heres-what-it-entai/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/02/26/psa-mass-effect-3-reckoning-dlc-out-today-heres-what-it-entai/#comments

Mass Effect 3's Reckoning multiplayer DLC pack is live today, bringing six new characters, seven new weapons, two weapons mods and four fresh accessories, all for free.

BioWare showed off Reckoning in a livestream yesterday and a NeoGAF user collected the details: The new characters are a Geth Juggernaut, a female biotic Turian, an Alliance Infiltration Unit, Krogan Warlord Sentinel, a human mercenary with a tech bow and a Collector Adept. Weapons include a venom shotgun, a high-powered Blood Pack Executioner Pistol and a Blood Pack Punisher SMG, and the mods are pistol and SMG power amplifiers.

Reckoning is the final Mass Effect 3 multiplayer DLC pack. Citadel, the final round of singleplayer DLC, hits on March 5 ($15/1200 MSP) and will give players the "opportunity to reconnect with some of their favorite characters from all three of the Mass Effect games."

JoystiqPSA: Mass Effect 3 Reckoning DLC out today, here's what it entails originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 26 Feb 2013 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>BioWareDLCmass-effect-3microsoftmultiplayerpcplaystationps3reckoningxboxTue, 26 Feb 2013 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA[PS Plus brings Europe Mass Effect 3, DOA5, MGS HD, more next month]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/02/22/ps-plus-brings-europe-mass-effect-3-doa5-mgs-hd-more-next-mon/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/02/22/ps-plus-brings-europe-mass-effect-3-doa5-mgs-hd-more-next-mon/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/02/22/ps-plus-brings-europe-mass-effect-3-doa5-mgs-hd-more-next-mon/#comments European PlayStation Plus subscribers can rub their hands and smack their lips at another decent haul of Instant Collection games in March. For PS3 there's Mass Effect 3, Dead or Alive 5, and Joe Danger 2: The Movie, while on the way to Vita are Puddle and Metal Gear Solid HD Collection, which includes MGS2: Sons of Liberty and MGS3: Snake Eater.

The newbies start rolling out on March 6 with a triple substitution: Mass Effect 3, DOA5, and Joe Danger 2 are in, while Sleeping Dogs, Vanquish, and Limbo depart the service. Next up are the two Vita games, with MGS HD Collection swapping in for Wipeout 2048 on March 13, and Puddle for Lumines Electronic Symphony on March 20.

Those are some very brief runs for Sleeping Dogs, Wipeout 2048, and Lumines ES, which all came to PS Plus in February, so now's the time to snap them up.

JoystiqPS Plus brings Europe Mass Effect 3, DOA5, MGS HD, more next month originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 22 Feb 2013 09:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dead-or-alive-5europejoe-danger-2-the-moviemass-effect-3metal-gear-solid-hd-collectionplaystationplaystation-plusplaystation-vitaps3PSNpuddlevitaFri, 22 Feb 2013 09:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Mass Effect 3 Citadel DLC stars late Zaeed actor, BioWare pays multiplayer tribute]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/02/22/mass-effect-3-citadel-dlc-stars-late-zaeed-actor-bioware-pays-m/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/02/22/mass-effect-3-citadel-dlc-stars-late-zaeed-actor-bioware-pays-m/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/02/22/mass-effect-3-citadel-dlc-stars-late-zaeed-actor-bioware-pays-m/#comments Mass Effect 3 Citadel DLC stars late Zaeed actor, BioWare pays multiplayer tributeMass Effect 3's newly announced Citadel DLC features Zaeed and the work of Robin Sachs, the late actor who portrayed the bounty hunter. BioWare producer Mike Gamble revealed Sachs' involvement, marking one of the very last pieces of his acting work to be published. Sachs, known for his roles in other BioWare games as well as TV shows Buffy The Vampire Slayer and Babylon 5, passed away earlier this month at the age of 61.

BioWare, following a suggestion from fans on its forums, is also paying its respects to the actor through this weekend's Mass Effect 3 multiplayer operation. The aim of the operation, called 'Tribute,' is to "honor and avenge our comrades who fell - and let the Reapers know this was a mistake, not a victory." The goals are to earn points using the M-8 Avenger and Inferno Grenades, referencing Zaeed's old 'Jessie' rifle and his loyalty power from Mass Effect 2. The operation begins today and runs through to Sunday, February 24.

[Thanks, Sigfodr]

JoystiqMass Effect 3 Citadel DLC stars late Zaeed actor, BioWare pays multiplayer tribute originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 22 Feb 2013 08:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>biowareDLCmass-effect-3microsoftpcplaystationps3robin-sachsxboxzaeedFri, 22 Feb 2013 08:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Mass Effect 3 'Reckoning' and 'Citadel' DLC on Feb. 26, Mar. 5]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/02/21/mass-effect-3-reckoning-and-citadel-dlc-hit-feb-26-mar-5/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/02/21/mass-effect-3-reckoning-and-citadel-dlc-hit-feb-26-mar-5/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/02/21/mass-effect-3-reckoning-and-citadel-dlc-hit-feb-26-mar-5/#comments Mass Effect 3 'Reckoning' and 'Citadel' DLC hit Feb 26, Mar 5BioWare and EA have announced two more bundles of DLC for Mass Effect 3, with one focused on multiplayer and the other serving as "one final, sentimental journey with Commander Shepard and their squad," according to the press release.

The first batch of content, "Reckoning," is a free bundle of multiplayer DLC that'll be available for free when it lands this Tuesday, February 26. The pack adds new characters, weapons and item upgrades for use in multiplayer, though what any of those things are specifically remains to be seen.

"Citadel," meanwhile, is Mass Effect 3's last chunk of single-player DLC, arriving on March 5 for $14.99/1200 MS Points. The pack returns Shepard and crew to (where else) the Citadel, on a mission that will give players the "opportunity to reconnect with some of their favorite characters from all three of the Mass Effect games." Well, provided you didn't get them horribly murdered, we figure. You know what you did.

Gallery: Mass Effect 3 - Reckoning


Gallery: Mass Effect 3 - Citadel

Continue reading Mass Effect 3 'Reckoning' and 'Citadel' DLC on Feb. 26, Mar. 5

JoystiqMass Effect 3 'Reckoning' and 'Citadel' DLC on Feb. 26, Mar. 5 originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 21 Feb 2013 11:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>BioWareCitadelDLCEAElectronic-Artsmass-effect-3microsoftpcplaystationps3Reckoningrelease-datexboxThu, 21 Feb 2013 11:45:00 EST<![CDATA[Operation: Heartbreaker brings the Banshees in Mass Effect 3 this weekend]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/02/16/operation-heartbreaker-brings-the-banshees-in-mass-effect-3-thi/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/02/16/operation-heartbreaker-brings-the-banshees-in-mass-effect-3-thi/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/02/16/operation-heartbreaker-brings-the-banshees-in-mass-effect-3-thi/#comments We have two problems with this weekend's special multiplayer event for Mass Effect 3. First, players have to cope with an abundance of Banshees, the game's most hated villain that doesn't have the last name "Shields." The individual goal this weekend is to earn at least 20,000 points from killing Banshees, netting players a Commendation Pack.

Next, the name of the mission is Operation: Heartbreaker, but there is no Shawn Michaels in sight to superkick said Banshees in the mouth. Our Commander Shepard refers to himself as the "Heart Break Kid," but it's just not the same.

JoystiqOperation: Heartbreaker brings the Banshees in Mass Effect 3 this weekend originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 16 Feb 2013 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>BioWareHBKmass-effect-3microsoftmultiplayer-weekendoperation-heartbreakerpcplaystationps3xboxSat, 16 Feb 2013 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Mass Effect 2 Zaeed actor Robin Sachs passes away at 61]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/02/07/mass-effect-2-zaeed-actor-robin-sachs-passes-away-at-61/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/02/07/mass-effect-2-zaeed-actor-robin-sachs-passes-away-at-61/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/02/07/mass-effect-2-zaeed-actor-robin-sachs-passes-away-at-61/#comments Mass Effect 2's Zaeed actor Robin Sachs passes away, age 61Voice actor Robin Sachs has passed away after a long career, playing parts like Ethan Rayne in Buffy The Vampire Slayer and Hedronn on Babylon 5. Bioware has posted a quick note on the company blog remembering Sachs' work on their franchises, including serving as Admiral Saul Karath in Knights of the Old Republic, Lord Pyral Harrowmont in Dragon Age Origins, and perhaps most memorably as vicious bounty hunter Zaeed Massani in Mass Effect 2.

As Bioware says, "our thoughts are with Robin's family and friends during this difficult time." Thanks for the stories, Zaeed.

JoystiqMass Effect 2 Zaeed actor Robin Sachs passes away at 61 originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 07 Feb 2013 06:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>biowaremass-effectmass-effect-3microsoftpassedplaystationps3riprobin-sachsxboxzaeed-massaniThu, 07 Feb 2013 06:00:00 EST<![CDATA[BioWare producers tease potential Mass Effect 3 DLC]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/01/28/bioware-producers-tease-potential-mass-effect-3-dlc/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/01/28/bioware-producers-tease-potential-mass-effect-3-dlc/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/01/28/bioware-producers-tease-potential-mass-effect-3-dlc/#comments BioWare's Casey Hudson, Mike Gamble tease potential Mass Effect 3 DLCLast December, BioWare Edmonton confirmed that more DLC is in the works for Mass Effect 3. Today series executive producer Casey Hudson and producer Michael Gamble both teased screens, with no information beyond that.

Above you can see what looks to be the Silversun Strip, a den of future iniquity with a casino and presumably a lot of dancing Asari - we've been to enough neo night clubs to know how things work. Past the break, you can see a towering Krogan warrior wielding an equally hulking mace. We're not sure if the guy is trying to kill ghosts or cockroaches but we wish him godspeed all the same.

Continue reading BioWare producers tease potential Mass Effect 3 DLC

JoystiqBioWare producers tease potential Mass Effect 3 DLC originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 28 Jan 2013 19:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>biowarebioware-edmontondlceamass-effectmass-effect-3microsoftpcplaystationps3xboxMon, 28 Jan 2013 19:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Mass Effect 3's 'Operation: Ballistic' weekend goes for the gold]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/01/26/mass-effect-3s-operation-ballistic-weekend-goes-for-the-gold/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/01/26/mass-effect-3s-operation-ballistic-weekend-goes-for-the-gold/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/01/26/mass-effect-3s-operation-ballistic-weekend-goes-for-the-gold/#comments By now, we are surely all familiar with how this whole Mass Effect 3 multiplayer weekend thing is supposed to work: "Hey N7 Marines, something about the state of the galaxy, something about the Reapers/Geth/Cerberus, perfunctory lore justification, etc, go kill stuff and we'll give you stuff."

It's a good system, so why mess with it? This weekend's Operation: Ballistic challenge charges individual soldiers with earning a gold weapon medal for assault rifles, heavy pistols, shotguns, sniper rifles, or submachine guns. As per usual, the reward for successfully completing the task set before you is one brand-spankin'-new Commendation Pack.

JoystiqMass Effect 3's 'Operation: Ballistic' weekend goes for the gold originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 26 Jan 2013 21:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>biowareEAelectronic-artsmass-effect-3microsoftmultiplayer-weekendoperation-ballisticpcplaystationps3weekend-eventxboxSat, 26 Jan 2013 21:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Joystiq Top 10 of 2012: Mass Effect 3]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/01/01/joystiq-top-10-of-2012-mass-effect-3/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/01/01/joystiq-top-10-of-2012-mass-effect-3/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/01/01/joystiq-top-10-of-2012-mass-effect-3/#comments Just two years ago, Joystiq awarded the top spot in its Game of the Year list to Mass Effect 2. In borrowing from our description of that game, we could equally incite "the rather whimsical notion that a fictional world has some sort of permanence" when talking about Mass Effect 3. The gravity of every decision in the series is intended to elicit a feeling of dire consequence. Did you lose your favorite squad member in the second game? Factors like that are expected to play a role in the final chapter of your adventure.

For some, this third game began to fall apart at the seams for that very reason: we've come to expect that as the most important human in the galaxy, our decisions will leave a permanent imprint on the universe. Commander Shepard is expected to be the seemingly unstoppable hero that defies the odds and ultimately comes out the victor. That's hardly a fault of players, as those who have stuck around since the beginning should remember a rugged Shepard strutting out from the debris at the Citadel with a confident smirk at the end of the first game.

Gallery: Mass Effect 3 (1/4/12)

Continue reading Joystiq Top 10 of 2012: Mass Effect 3

JoystiqJoystiq Top 10 of 2012: Mass Effect 3 originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 01 Jan 2013 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>BioWareEAGOTY-2012Joystiq-Best-of-2012kinectmass-effect-3microsoftnintendopcplaystationps3wii-uxboxTue, 01 Jan 2013 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Operation: Prophecy burns up Mass Effect 3 multiplayer this weekend]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/12/21/operation-prophecy-burns-up-mass-effect-3-multiplayer-this-week/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/12/21/operation-prophecy-burns-up-mass-effect-3-multiplayer-this-week/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/12/21/operation-prophecy-burns-up-mass-effect-3-multiplayer-this-week/#comments Operation Prophecy burns up Mass Effect 3 multiplayer this weekendSo, okay, the Earth didn't collide with a secret planet this morning, nor did civilization wake up with enhanced psychic abilities and/or a greater understanding of its fellow man. We're just as disappointed as you are.

The alternate version of Earth contained within Mass Effect 3's multiplayer is still very much in danger, however, and shooting space bugs to protect it is more important than ever. Between now and December 23, successful extraction from each Earth map (Rio, Vancouver and London), coupled with 100,000 cumulative points scored through the destruction of Reapers, will earn players a Commendation Pack and a special "Hero of the Last Days" banner.

JoystiqOperation: Prophecy burns up Mass Effect 3 multiplayer this weekend originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 21 Dec 2012 23:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>biowareeaelectronic-artsmass-effect-3mass-effect-weekendmicrosoftmultiplayeroperation-prophecypcplaystationps3weekend-eventxboxFri, 21 Dec 2012 23:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Operation: Onslaught overtakes Mass Effect 3 multiplayer this weekend]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/12/06/operation-onslaught-overtakes-mass-effect-3-multiplayer-this-we/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/12/06/operation-onslaught-overtakes-mass-effect-3-multiplayer-this-we/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/12/06/operation-onslaught-overtakes-mass-effect-3-multiplayer-this-we/#comments BioWare's new breed of non-squad oriented multiplayer challenges for Mass Effect 3 continues this weekend, when "Operation: Onslaught" is put into effect. As the contrived excuse story goes, diminished Alliance industrial capabilities have resulted in a shortage of "specialized" weapons in the field, and it's up to the N7 Marines to reclaim factories and other industrial complexes so production can begin again.

Sounds exciting, right? Well it would be, if this weekend's event actually had anything to do with that. In actuality, ME3's multiplayer will be business as usual, save for the fact that individual soldiers can earn a Commendation Pack by dealing 75,000 accumulated points of damage with an assault rifle. There are no map or difficulty level requirements, nor is successful extraction needed for the points to be valid.

JoystiqOperation: Onslaught overtakes Mass Effect 3 multiplayer this weekend originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 06 Dec 2012 23:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>biowareEAElectronic-Artsmass-effect-3microsoftmultiplayerpcplaystationps3xboxThu, 06 Dec 2012 23:30:00 EST<![CDATA[More Mass Effect 3 DLC from almost 'every' BioWare Edmonton writer]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/12/05/more-mass-effect-3-dlc-from-almost-every-bioware-edmonton-writ/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/12/05/more-mass-effect-3-dlc-from-almost-every-bioware-edmonton-writ/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/12/05/more-mass-effect-3-dlc-from-almost-every-bioware-edmonton-writ/#comments More Mass Effect 3 DLC from almost 'every' BioWare Edmonton writerMass Effect series developer BioWare Edmonton is working on a new piece Mass Effect 3 DLC, and it's "all hands on deck," level designer Jos Hendriks said on the BioWare forums.

"It's all hands on deck for this one. Pretty much every ME3 DLC writer here in Edmonton is involved (which would include both Patrick Weekes AND John Dombrow)," Hendriks wrote. Other writers included Jay Watamaniuk and Cathleen Rootsaert. Additionally, composer Sam Hulick tweeted that he's working on "unannounced Mass Effect 3 DLC."

"Tossing in piano and muted strings for this one particular piece. High potential for tears. #ME3DLC," Hulick tweeted.

Twitter previously outed Seth Green and Raphael Sbarge, voices of Joker and Kaidan Alenkowere, as working on something for Mass Effect 3. Neither appeared in Omega, the DLC that hit last week.

JoystiqMore Mass Effect 3 DLC from almost 'every' BioWare Edmonton writer originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 05 Dec 2012 20:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>BioWarebioware-edmontonDLCmass-effect-3microsoftnintendopcplaystationps3wii-uxboxWed, 05 Dec 2012 20:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Mass Effect 3 initiates Operation: Detonator this weekend]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/11/29/mass-effect-3-initiates-operation-detonator-this-weekend/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/11/29/mass-effect-3-initiates-operation-detonator-this-weekend/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/11/29/mass-effect-3-initiates-operation-detonator-this-weekend/#comments Mass Effect 3 initiates Operation Detonator this weekendCommander Shepard is relaxing on a beach somewhere with a Mai Tai and a copy of I Am Not Spock, but you poor saps are still out in the deep recesses of space, fighting the good fight against gross bugs and robots. Someday, dear marines. Someday.

Until the lot of you are finally loosed from the perpetual bondage of your galactic servitude, try and get some better equipment! This week's Mass Effect 3 multiplayer event is "Operation: Detonator," which tasks individual marines with earning 20,000 Biotic Explosion Points during a match, regardless of map or difficulty setting. Explosions must kill an enemy for the points to be registered, however successful extraction from the mission is not required.

JoystiqMass Effect 3 initiates Operation: Detonator this weekend originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 29 Nov 2012 23:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>biowareeaelectronic-artsmass-effect-3ME3microsoftmultiplayern7-bounty-weekendpcplaystationps3xboxThu, 29 Nov 2012 23:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Mass Effect 3 Special Edition review: Mapping the galaxy]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/11/27/mass-effect-3-wii-u-review/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/11/27/mass-effect-3-wii-u-review/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/11/27/mass-effect-3-wii-u-review/#comments For Wii U re-releases of existing games, we're republishing our original reviews with added evaluation of the new material. Keep track of all of Joystiq's Wii U launch coverage on the Wii U hub page!

The Wii U version of Mass Effect 3, saddled with the puzzling subtitle "Special Edition," doesn't introduce much in the way of console exclusive features. Of course, even without the handful of extra features, you still have one of the year's best games, though the conclusion to an epic trilogy may make an odd starting point for Wii U owners.

Helping to ease new players into the series is an interactive comic prelude, "Mass Effect Genesis 2." This is an extended version of the "Mass Effect Genesis" comic available on the console and PC versions of Mass Effect 2. It covers the events of the first two Mass Effect games, allowing players to make many of Commander Shepard's key choices along the way. The comic itself is pretty substantial, lasting a bit longer than twenty minutes.

Certain choices may confuse new players, notably whether to make Udina or Anderson Earth's first councilor at the end of the original Mass Effect. Regardless of the initial choice, the events of Mass Effect 2 conspire to make Udina councilor by the beginning of Mass Effect 3, but those events aren't covered in the comic. As such, Wii U players may find it strange that Udina is suddenly councilor after making the opposite choice in the prelude. Still, the comic does an adequate job of catching up new players.

Gallery: Mass Effect 3 (Wii U)

Continue reading Mass Effect 3 Special Edition review: Mapping the galaxy

JoystiqMass Effect 3 Special Edition review: Mapping the galaxy originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 27 Nov 2012 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>biowareeamass-effect-3nintendostraight-rightwii-uTue, 27 Nov 2012 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Mass Effect 3 Omega DLC not available for Wii U at launch]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/11/17/mass-effect-3-omega-dlc-not-available-for-wii-u-at-launch/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/11/17/mass-effect-3-omega-dlc-not-available-for-wii-u-at-launch/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/11/17/mass-effect-3-omega-dlc-not-available-for-wii-u-at-launch/#comments The Omega DLC for Mass Effect 3 will not be available for Wii U when it launches November 27, according to BioWare's official Mass Effect Twitter account. The DLC will release on PS3 and Xbox 360 for $15.

When asked about future DLC offerings for Wii U, BioWare's reply was "never say never," which either hints at the possibility of DLC such as Omega launching on Wii U in the future, or the Mass Effect team was listening to Justin Bieber at the time.

JoystiqMass Effect 3 Omega DLC not available for Wii U at launch originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 17 Nov 2012 16:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>BioWareDLCEAmass-effect-3mass-effect-3-omeganintendoomegawii-uSat, 17 Nov 2012 16:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Mass Effect 3 Wii U launches November 18]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/11/05/mass-effect-3-wii-u-launches-november-18/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/11/05/mass-effect-3-wii-u-launches-november-18/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/11/05/mass-effect-3-wii-u-launches-november-18/#comments ME3 Wii U special edition includes interactive stories of ME 1, 2, is launch title

Mass Effect 3 will be available for purchase alongside the Wii U when it launches on November 18 in North America, BioWare confirms today. Mass Effect 3 will also be a launch title in Europe on November 30 and in Japan on December 5.

Mass Effect 3 on Wii U includes the game's Extended Cut and From Ashes DLC, along with an updated version of the Genesis comics from Darkhorse. According to BioWare external producer Melanie Faulknor, the Wii U version also packs the multiplayer add-ons Rebellion, Resurgence, and Earth.

The Genesis comic was first introduced in Mass Effect 2 on PS3, giving players a chance to mold the events from the first game, which was not available on the platform. In the Wii U update, players will be able to craft their stories from the first two Mass Effect games and bring those decisions into Mass Effect 3.

The Omega DLC slated for later this month wasn't addressed, so we imagine Wii U players will have to download the DLC just like everyone else. No more special treatment!

JoystiqMass Effect 3 Wii U launches November 18 originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 05 Nov 2012 21:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>biowareeamass-effect-3nintendorelease-datestraight-rightwii-uMon, 05 Nov 2012 21:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Mass Effect Trilogy pushed to Dec. 4 on PS3]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/11/01/mass-effect-trilogy-pushed-to-dec-4-on-ps3/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/11/01/mass-effect-trilogy-pushed-to-dec-4-on-ps3/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/11/01/mass-effect-trilogy-pushed-to-dec-4-on-ps3/#comments

Mass Effect Trilogy is coming to the PS3 on December 4 in North America and December 7 in Europe, just in time for the Hanar holiday festivities. Hanars make the best sugar cookies.

The new release bundles all three Mass Effect games in one sleek black N7 box. The original Mass Effect, which is playable on Sony's system for the first time, will also be available for download through PSN.

BioWare already detailed the DLC available on each platform: The "Bring Down the Sky" mission will be included with Mass Effect on the PS3, whether downloaded through PSN or within the Mass Effect Trilogy. The PC version of Mass Effect will include Bring Down the Sky and Pinnacle Station, while the Xbox 360 version will be just as it originally was when it launched back in 2007, sans that DLC and sky fully intact.

PS3, Xbox 360 and PC all get Cerberus Network with Mass Effect 2; however, on the PS3, it'll also include Lair of the Shadow Broker, Kasumi and Overlord. Finally, Mass Effect 3 will include Cerberus Network across all platforms, but not the most recent expansion, "Leviathan."

Mass Effect Trilogy will be available next week on the PC and Xbox 360 - November 6 in the US and November 9 in Europe.

Gallery: Mass Effect Trilogy

JoystiqMass Effect Trilogy pushed to Dec. 4 on PS3 originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 01 Nov 2012 19:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>biowaremass-effectmass-effect-2mass-effect-3mass-effect-trilogyplaystationps3psnThu, 01 Nov 2012 19:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Mass Effect 3 goes trick-or-treating with a Halloween Challenge]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/10/31/mass-effect-3-goes-trick-or-treating-with-a-halloween-challenge/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/10/31/mass-effect-3-goes-trick-or-treating-with-a-halloween-challenge/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/10/31/mass-effect-3-goes-trick-or-treating-with-a-halloween-challenge/#comments Mass Effect 3 Halloween challenge
BioWare is celebrating Halloween with a special trick and treat-inspired multiplayer challenge in Mass Effect 3. Beginning today and running through November 5, there are three new tasks for players to take on to earn a special holiday reward: Players need to run five extractions on the Firebase Ghost map (or its Hazard version), earn 7500 points against zombies (also known as husks or abominations in the Mass Effect parlance) and earn 10,000 points against monsters (which includes brutes, scions, praetorians, and banshees). Completing the tasks on any difficulty will earn players a Halloween Challenge Banner.

What's too bad is that you won't get the Halloween-themed characters teased above to join your gang. Bioware doesn't say, but we're pretty sure they're crew members for some other Mass Effect 3 team, maybe helmed by one Commander SCARE-perd of the USS Norman-DIE! Boooooo! [Ed. Note: You're fired.]

JoystiqMass Effect 3 goes trick-or-treating with a Halloween Challenge originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 31 Oct 2012 22:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>achievementbannerbiowarechallengecommander-shepherdearningfunhalloweenholidaymass-effectmass-effect-3microsoftplaystationps3xboxWed, 31 Oct 2012 22:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Mass Effect: Paragon Lost loses a few Alliance soldiers in sample footage]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/10/27/mass-effect-paragon-lost-loses-a-few-alliance-soldiers-in-sampl/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/10/27/mass-effect-paragon-lost-loses-a-few-alliance-soldiers-in-sampl/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/10/27/mass-effect-paragon-lost-loses-a-few-alliance-soldiers-in-sampl/#comments
Today you can sample nine minutes from the Mass Effect 3 prequel anime, Mass Effect: Paragon Lost. The video above shows a panicked crew of Alliance soldiers looking to Vega for inspiration during a nasty shootout with the Blood Pack.

Mass Effect: Paragon Lost takes place well before the events of Mass Effect 3, and focuses on James Vega's career as an Alliance Marine going up against The Collectors. Freddie Prinze Jr. reprises his role as James Vega throughout the Production I.G.-created animated film. It's out on December 28.

JoystiqMass Effect: Paragon Lost loses a few Alliance soldiers in sample footage originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 27 Oct 2012 03:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>biowareeafreddie-prinze-jrjames-vegamass-effect-3mass-effect-paragon-lostmicrosoftparagon-lostpcplaystationps3xboxSat, 27 Oct 2012 03:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Wii U voice chat sounds pretty complicated]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/10/18/wii-u-voice-chat-sounds-pretty-complicated/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/10/18/wii-u-voice-chat-sounds-pretty-complicated/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/10/18/wii-u-voice-chat-sounds-pretty-complicated/#comments Nintendo is approaching voice chat on Wii U from a very ... odd angle. Select games will support voice chat via third-party, officially licensed headsets plugged into the WiiPad's headphone jack, but voice chat will not be standard across all games or even the system itself. Even though the WiiPad has a built-in microphone, it can't be used for voice chat.

Things get a bit more complicated when you enter the Pro Controller into the mix. The Pro Controller doesn't even have a headphone jack, so for a game like Call of Duty: Black Ops 2, players will need to plug their headset into the WiiPad and set it next to them while they play with the Pro Controller.

So far the only games listed to support in-game voice chat are Assassin's Creed 3, Mass Effect 3 and Black Ops 2. Nintendo has yet to announce voice chat support for any further games, never mind detailed plans of the Wii U's online suite.

JoystiqWii U voice chat sounds pretty complicated originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 18 Oct 2012 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>activisionassassins-creed-3biowarecall-of-duty-black-ops-2eamass-effect-3nintendotreyarchubisoftvoice-chatwii-uThu, 18 Oct 2012 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Mass Effect 3 adds 'Groundside Weapons' pack DLC]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/10/16/mass-effect-3-adds-groundside-weapons-pack-dlc/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/10/16/mass-effect-3-adds-groundside-weapons-pack-dlc/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/10/16/mass-effect-3-adds-groundside-weapons-pack-dlc/#comments Mass Effect 3 receives 'Groundside Weapons' packThose who pick up the "Groundside Resistance weapon pack" for Mass Effect 3 can have Commander Shepard play with some new toys. The armory set includes seven new weapons, covering pistols to shotguns, along with a harpoon gun... to hunt elcor? Asked how it felt about being compared to a whale in that last line, our token office elcor responded, "Disappointed: Did you just call me fat?"

The weapon pack costs $1.99 (160 Microsoft points) and is available today on Xbox 360, PS3 and PC. The next big piece of a DLC content for Mass Effect 3 is the Omega mission, available November 27 for $15 (1200 MSP).

JoystiqMass Effect 3 adds 'Groundside Weapons' pack DLC originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 16 Oct 2012 15:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>BiowareDLCEAElectronic-Artsgroundside-weaponsmass-effect-3microsoftpcplaystationps3xboxTue, 16 Oct 2012 15:30:00 EST<![CDATA[This Reaper replica statue comes with multiplayer bonuses]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/10/13/this-reaper-replica-statue-comes-with-multiplayer-bonuses/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/10/13/this-reaper-replica-statue-comes-with-multiplayer-bonuses/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/10/13/this-reaper-replica-statue-comes-with-multiplayer-bonuses/#comments This Reaper replica statue comes with multiplayer bonusesDark Horse Comics recently unveiled a 18.5" tall replica of the Reaper Sovereign from the Mass Effect series. The replica is estimated to ship in June 2013 for $350, and can be pre-ordered with a hefty $100 deposit on the BioWare store.

The Reaper statue is in limited production, with fewer than 1,000 being made. It also comes with a code for as-yet-unannounced multiplayer bonuses for the Xbox 360 and PC versions of Mass Effect 3.

JoystiqThis Reaper replica statue comes with multiplayer bonuses originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 13 Oct 2012 22:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>BioWareEAmass-effectmass-effect-3microsoftpcreaperreplicaSovereignStatuexboxSat, 13 Oct 2012 22:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Mass Effect 3 Omega DLC out Nov 27, priced 1200 MSP/$15 [update: confirmed]]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/10/12/report-mass-effect-3-omega-dlc-out-nov-27-priced-1200-msp-15/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/10/12/report-mass-effect-3-omega-dlc-out-nov-27-priced-1200-msp-15/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/10/12/report-mass-effect-3-omega-dlc-out-nov-27-priced-1200-msp-15/#comments Report Mass Effect 3 Omega DLC out November 27, priced 1200 MSP$15Mass Effect 3 DLC Omega is landing on November 27 and is priced at 1200 MSP or $15, if a video interview by Examiner's Beverly Lim Lee is accurate. The interviewee is apparently Mass Effect 3 Producer Mike Gamble, although he's introduced as "Mike, the producer of Mass 3 Effect Omega." According to the interview, the DLC is double the size of any previous Mass Effect 3 DLC, and lets players take on Aria, who is vying for control of the Omega space station.

The video was uploaded to Ms Lee's YouTube account, and was apparently taken at the New York Comic Con, a convention at which EA BioWare is certainly in attendance and showing off Omega concept art.

We've reached out EA BioWare for confirmation of these details and further information.

Update: A post on the BioWare blog confirms the details. The Omega DLC is coming to PC, PSN, and XBLM on November 27 for $14.99 or 1200 MSP. PS3 owners in Europe will have to wait until November 28 for the DLC to hit the continent. The blog post reads:
"Disturbing reports from the Citadel suggest that something big is about to go down. If our Intel is accurate, Aria is on the move. This was anticipated, as we did not expect her to sit idly by while Cerberus ran roughshod over Omega. With her biotic capabilities and well-documented mean streak, what happens next won't be pretty. Our informants believe that Aria intends to seek out Commander Shepard for assistance. We are aware of the Commander's ties to Aria, but are unclear about how deep they run. What we do know is that Aria will be relentless in her fight to take back Omega, and with the Commander at her side, she may very well be unstoppable."
The video linked above has now been made private.

JoystiqMass Effect 3 Omega DLC out Nov 27, priced 1200 MSP/$15 [update: confirmed] originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 12 Oct 2012 07:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>BioWareEAmass-effect-3mass-effect-3-omegamicrosoftpcplaystationps3PSNreportXBLAXBLMxboxFri, 12 Oct 2012 07:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Mass Effect 3's 'N7 HQ' web portal now online]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/10/11/mass-effect-3s-n7-hq-web-portal-now-online-heres-what-it-do/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/10/11/mass-effect-3s-n7-hq-web-portal-now-online-heres-what-it-do/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/10/11/mass-effect-3s-n7-hq-web-portal-now-online-heres-what-it-do/#comments Mass Effect 3's 'N7 HQ' web portal now online, here's what it doesN7 HQ, the Mass Effect 3 online portal briefly mentioned during BioWare's last multiplayer briefing, is now online and operational. Available for anyone who's purchased the game (and visible to the general public), N7 HQ allows players to view their multiplayer profile, track their progress through ME3's recently added Challenges, view leaderboard information and assess the state of the Galaxy at War.

User profiles contain information on every character an account has made, including character level, XP and skill tree allocation details for each character. As profiles are public unless otherwise specified, it's now possible to look up the builds of people you encounter online so you can steal their ideas emulate their successful layouts.

Progression through Challenges can also be closely monitored via the Challenges tab (natch), which tracks advancement through both individual and meta-Challenges in three categories: General, Aliens and Weapons. Once gold-level challenges have been completed, the titles and banners awarded can also be managed online.

Checking in on your Galactic Readiness is accomplished through the Galaxy at War section, which displays a familiar map of the galaxy (and its various stages of readiness), as well as information regarding increased readiness from external sources like Mass Effect: Infiltrator.

Unfortunately, N7 HQ doesn't have the ability to tell members of the Alliance Military that the war ended months ago, and that they can all come home. Oh well!

JoystiqMass Effect 3's 'N7 HQ' web portal now online originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 11 Oct 2012 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>biowareeaElectronic-Artsmass-effect-3ME3microsoftmultiplayerN7-HQoriginpcplaystationps3xboxThu, 11 Oct 2012 17:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Fanmade mod combines Sins of a Solar Empire chocolate with Mass Effect peanut butter]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/10/10/fanmade-mod-combines-sins-of-a-solar-empire-chocolate-with-mass/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/10/10/fanmade-mod-combines-sins-of-a-solar-empire-chocolate-with-mass/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/10/10/fanmade-mod-combines-sins-of-a-solar-empire-chocolate-with-mass/#comments Sins of a Solar Empire mod is all about Mass EffectSins of a Solar Empire is an award-winning RTS space battle game, and Mass Effect is an epic action RPG universe with enough lore to fill a library. What happens when you smash the two together in the particle accelerator chamber that is a fan-created mod? You get Mass Effect: Dawn of the Reapers, a full conversion for Sins that lets you command ships like the Normandy against various Mass Effect-inspired units, including those of the Geth, Volus, and Cerberus' ships as well.

There's lots more planned for the mod, including even more races and ships designed straight from Bioware's epic series. Unfortunately, the mod itself isn't available to the public just yet, and the release of Mass Effect 3 pushed it back for some more lore and spec tweaks. Still, when it's available it will work with both Sins' Diplomacy expansion and the standalone Rebellion version as well.

JoystiqFanmade mod combines Sins of a Solar Empire chocolate with Mass Effect peanut butter originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 10 Oct 2012 14:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>biowarediplomacyfanmademass-effectmass-effect-3modpcrebellionsinssins-of-a-solar-empiresins-of-a-solar-empire-rebellionstardockuser-contentWed, 10 Oct 2012 14:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Mass Effect 3 multiplayer adding Challenge system, replacing weekend operations]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/10/09/mass-effect-3-multiplayer-adding-challenge-system-replacing-wee/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/10/09/mass-effect-3-multiplayer-adding-challenge-system-replacing-wee/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/10/09/mass-effect-3-multiplayer-adding-challenge-system-replacing-wee/#comments For everyone still out there defending Earth from the Reapers and/or Cerberus, we've got some news: 1) Shepard took care of that, like, months ago. What are you guys even doing out there? 2) The way you're rewarded for your hard work and service to the Alliance military is about to change, albeit not drastically.

At some point in the future, BioWare will implement a "Challenge" system in Mass Effect 3's multiplayer. Players will be able to complete "hundreds of new multiplayer challenges" that sound a lot like mini-achievements. Successfully completing a challenge grants Challenge Points (think high-score, not in-game currency) and personal progression through said challenges can be monitored both in-game and on a forthcoming N7 HQ website. Additionally, gold-level challenges grant an exclusive title and banner upon completion, and can also be completed an unlimited number of times.

The existing bi-weekly "Operation: Enter-code-word-here" events will be replaced by weekly Challenge events that grant their prizes to individual players immediately, rather than granting global prizes on a delay as the current system does. No word on when these changes will be implemented.

JoystiqMass Effect 3 multiplayer adding Challenge system, replacing weekend operations originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 09 Oct 2012 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>biowareeaElectronic-Artsmass-effect-3microsoftmultiplayernintendopcplaystationps3wii-uxboxTue, 09 Oct 2012 19:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Mass Effect 3 multiplayer gets free 'Retaliation' DLC next week]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/10/04/mass-effect-3-multiplayer-gets-free-retaliation-dlc-next-week/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/10/04/mass-effect-3-multiplayer-gets-free-retaliation-dlc-next-week/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/10/04/mass-effect-3-multiplayer-gets-free-retaliation-dlc-next-week/#comments
Mass Effect 3's multiplayer suite will be bolstered by a new enemy race and unlockables. The "Retaliation" DLC pack will be free to all Mass Effect 3 owners when it launches next week on October 9 - PS3 owners in Europe will have to wait an extra day, October 10.

Retaliation adds the Collectors as a new enemy faction to face off against and new unlockable kits: the Turian Havoc Soldier and Turian Ghost Infiltrator. You'll also be able to unlock new Collector weapons and outfit them with new upgrades, plus BioWare is adding new "hazard" versions of existing maps to Mass Effect 3's multiplayer - certain environmental dangers like sandstorms and lightning will now challenge players in addition to the enemy.

Finally, "Retaliation" adds a new challenge system to multiplayer, a database that chronicles your performance across multiplayer and awards "challenge points" for reaching certain milestones in multiplayer. Players can spend these "challenge points" on new titles and banners to customize their character profile.

Gallery: Mass Effect 3 (Retaliation DLC)

Continue reading Mass Effect 3 multiplayer gets free 'Retaliation' DLC next week

JoystiqMass Effect 3 multiplayer gets free 'Retaliation' DLC next week originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 04 Oct 2012 12:44:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>biowaredlceamass-effect-3microsoftpcplaystationps3retaliationxboxThu, 04 Oct 2012 12:44:00 EST<![CDATA[Mass Effect 3 enacts Operation Overdrive this weekend]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/10/04/mass-effect-3-enacts-operation-overdrive-this-weekend/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/10/04/mass-effect-3-enacts-operation-overdrive-this-weekend/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/10/04/mass-effect-3-enacts-operation-overdrive-this-weekend/#comments Mass Effect 3 enacts Operation Overdrive this weekendThe forces of Mass Effect 3 are back at it again this weekend, running a weekly event called Operation Overdrive. Just like the other events in this series, there's both a squad and an allied goal, with separate rewards for each.

The squad goal this time will be to hit full extraction on any map in just 20 minutes or less, and that will nab you a Commendation Pack if completed. The Allied Goal is across all of the game's players, and asks for 200,000 extraction waves to be beaten in total. Completing that goal will get everyone involved a Victory Pack. Not to mention all of the lives that will be saved from repelling the Reaper invasion, right?

JoystiqMass Effect 3 enacts Operation Overdrive this weekend originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 04 Oct 2012 02:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>biowarechallengecommendation-packdownloadableeagoalsmass-effect-3microsoftpcplayersplaystationps3victory-packweekly-eventxboxThu, 04 Oct 2012 02:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Mass Effect 3 patch drops this week, fixes so many things]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/10/02/mass-effect-3-patch-drops-this-week-fixes-so-many-things/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/10/02/mass-effect-3-patch-drops-this-week-fixes-so-many-things/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/10/02/mass-effect-3-patch-drops-this-week-fixes-so-many-things/#comments A sizable update is coming to Mass Effect 3 this week, aimed at fixing exploits and patching in some gameplay balances. A large deal of the changes affect multiplayer powers and enemy behaviors, like Banshees being stuck in a teleport routine and being able to grab Geth Pyros over cover.

Game crashing bugs have also been addressed, including a nasty Bionic Charge glitch that would render the match unplayable and the Singularity power has been redesigned. BioWare expects the patch will be available this Thursday, but nothing is set in stone: Xbox 360 and PS3 players will be automatically prompted to install the patch, while PC users will need to manually install the update through Origin.

For the full list (it's a full list) of changes, head on over to the BioWare forums.

JoystiqMass Effect 3 patch drops this week, fixes so many things originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 02 Oct 2012 16:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>biowareeamass-effect-3microsoftpatchpcplaystationps3xboxTue, 02 Oct 2012 16:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Mass Effect Trilogy DLC gets down on PC and Xbox 360, PS3 info to come]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/09/30/mass-effect-trilogy-dlc-gets-down-on-pc-and-xbox-360-ps3-info-t/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/09/30/mass-effect-trilogy-dlc-gets-down-on-pc-and-xbox-360-ps3-info-t/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/09/30/mass-effect-trilogy-dlc-gets-down-on-pc-and-xbox-360-ps3-info-t/#comments A few more details on the Mass Effect 3 TrilogyThe Mass Effect Trilogy includes all three games in the Mass Effect franchise, launching for Xbox 360 and PC on November 6 and at a later date for PS3, and it'll look something like that photo up there. The Trilogy will come with DLC as well, BioWare clarifies:

The PC version will get Bring Down the Sky and Pinnacle Station for the first Mass Effect; Mass Effect 2 comes with the Cerberus Network, which includes Zaeed - The Price of Revenge, The Firewalker Pack, Cerberus Assault Gear, Arc Projector heavy weapon, and Normandy Crash site mission. Mass Effect 3 includes the Online Pass with access to multiplayer.

Xbox 360 won't get Bring Down the Sky or Pinnacle Station on-disc, but both will be available as standalone DLC via Xbox Live. Mass Effect 2 gets the Cerberus Network and Mass Effect 3 the Online Pass.

Information about PS3 DLC is coming "soon." The original Mass Effect will launch as a digital standalone on PSN on the same day the Trilogy launches for PS3, for $15.

The Trilogy is compatible with other versions of the Mass Effect games, meaning players can transfer saves from previous games to the Trilogy games, and Mass Effect 3 multiplayer is playable between versions. Considering the Trilogy is Mass Effect repackaged for the holiday rush, it'd be more surprising if the games were truly a separate beast and weren't compatible with previous releases.

There's still no sign of the Trilogy coming to Wii U, which gets Mass Effect 3 on launch day, November 18 in the US. The Wii U version includes the Extended Cut ending and the From Ashes DLC.

JoystiqMass Effect Trilogy DLC gets down on PC and Xbox 360, PS3 info to come originally appeared on Joystiq on Sun, 30 Sep 2012 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>DLCmass-effectmass-effect-2mass-effect-3microsoftpcplaystationps3xboxSun, 30 Sep 2012 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Mass Effect Trilogy lands on 360 and PC November 6, PS3 later]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/09/26/mass-effect-trilogy/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/09/26/mass-effect-trilogy/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/09/26/mass-effect-trilogy/#comments Mass Effect Trilogy lands on 360 & PC November 6, PS3 on later dateMass Effect 1, 2, & 3 are being released in an all-in-one bundle for Xbox 360 and PC on November 6, and for PlayStation 3 at a later date. The compilation, titled Mass Effect Trilogy, is priced at $59.99.

Mass Effect Trilogy sees the first Mass Effect come to PS3 for the first time, and that game will also be released as a digital standalone on PSN. Also, there's crucially no mention of the compilation coming to Wii U, a fact that makes the Wii U release of Mass Effect 3 eleven days after Mass Effect Trilogy hits a bit awkward. We've reached out to EA regards whether or not the trilogy includes previously released DLC.

EA also announced N7 Day, a "worldwide celebration of the Mass Effect franchise" that of course takes place on November 7. Whether or not fans can tear themselves away from the trilogy released the day before is another matter.

Gallery: Mass Effect Trilogy

Continue reading Mass Effect Trilogy lands on 360 and PC November 6, PS3 later

JoystiqMass Effect Trilogy lands on 360 and PC November 6, PS3 later originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 26 Sep 2012 11:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>biowareEAElectronic-artsmass-effectmass-effect-2mass-effect-3microsoftpcplaystationps3release-datexboxWed, 26 Sep 2012 11:45:00 EST<![CDATA[BioWare GM outlines new Mass Effect, original game after upheaval]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/09/18/bioware-gm-outlines-new-mass-effect-original-game-after-upheava/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/09/18/bioware-gm-outlines-new-mass-effect-original-game-after-upheava/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/09/18/bioware-gm-outlines-new-mass-effect-original-game-after-upheava/#comments BioWare GM outlines new Mass Effect, original games after upheavalAaryn Flynn, General Manager of BioWare Edmonton and Montreal, doesn't want fans to worry about passion or creativity within the studio following the retirement of BioWare co-founders Ray Muzyka and Greg Zeschuk.

"I know this might be concerning for some of you but the leaders at BioWare have had some time to think about it - to think about how the games, the fans, and the creative teams would move on without the two guys who started this organization back in 1995," Flynn writes.

He outlines the projects coming from BioWare, noting yesterday's reveal of Dragon Age 3: Inquisition, which has executive producer Mark Darrah at the helm.

Casey Hudson, executive producer of the Mass Effect series, has plans for another full game within the Mass Effect universe. The next piece of DLC for Mass Effect 3 is Omega, due out in the fall.

Hudson is also creating a brand new game, Flynn says: "While Casey continues to oversee the development of our new Mass Effect project, he and his leads are putting together their vision for an all new game set in a fictional universe, built from the bottom-up with all new gaming technology."

Flynn closes the roundup with a nod to Muzyka and Zeschuk, and to BioWare as a resilient brand. "Ray and Greg built BioWare to last. They've always known their retirement would come one day, so they developed a team of people who would ensure their standards and culture would endure. We'll humbly carry that torch and continue learning in the process.

"To the Doctors: I wish you the very best, and we will always honor your legacy. The games we develop will always share your unique creativity and steadfast integrity."

JoystiqBioWare GM outlines new Mass Effect, original game after upheaval originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 18 Sep 2012 16:50:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>aaryn-flynnBioWarecasey-hudsondragon-age-3greg-zeschukmass-effect-3microsoftpcplaystationps3ray-muzykaxboxTue, 18 Sep 2012 16:50:00 EST<![CDATA[Wii U Mass Effect 3 includes From Ashes and Extended Cut DLC]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/09/14/wii-u-mass-effect-3-includes-from-ashes-and-extended-cut-dlc/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/09/14/wii-u-mass-effect-3-includes-from-ashes-and-extended-cut-dlc/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/09/14/wii-u-mass-effect-3-includes-from-ashes-and-extended-cut-dlc/#comments Wii U Mass Effect 3 includes From Ashes and Extended Cut DLCIn addition to the new Extended Cut ending, developer Straight Right's Wii U version of Mass Effect 3 will include the "From Ashes" DLC, Nintendo UK revealed in a press release. "Wii U players will also experience the From Ashes DLC Pack and Extended Cut ending as a part of their story," Nintendo said. You will experience that DLC Pack. You must.

From Ashes includes the new squad member, Javik, as well as a Particle Rifle weapon, and additional outfits for everyone in your squad. It was originally bundled with the Collector's Edition and Digital Deluxe Editions of Mass Effect 3 on other platforms, and sold separately for $10.

JoystiqWii U Mass Effect 3 includes From Ashes and Extended Cut DLC originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 14 Sep 2012 15:40:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dlcfrom-ashesmass-effect-3nintendowii-uFri, 14 Sep 2012 15:40:00 EST<![CDATA[Straight Right building two Wii U games that aren't Mass Effect 3]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/09/09/straight-right-building-two-wii-u-games-that-arent-mass-effect/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/09/09/straight-right-building-two-wii-u-games-that-arent-mass-effect/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/09/09/straight-right-building-two-wii-u-games-that-arent-mass-effect/#comments Straight Right building two Wii U games that aren't Mass Effect 3Straight Right, the developer creating Mass Effect 3 for the Wii U, has two other Wii U games in its workshop, boss Tom Crago tells Eurogamer. One game is an original IP, while the other is "based on another big franchise," set to launch in 2013.

"We've made a number of bets on the Wii U, so we're certainly hoping that the platform comes strongly out of the gate," Crago says. "We've got two other titles in development. One of them is original, our own IP, and another is based on another big franchise that will come out in 2013. It's a big title and you will have heard of it."

Mass Effect 3 is slated to be a Wii U launch title, whenever that may be. Straight Right started work on the Wii U version months before Mass Effect 3 launched on other platforms in March.

"This is the biggest title we've worked on in a long time," Crago says. "There's a significant technical challenge bringing the game from its original format to the Wii U. It's a new, different and sophisticated piece of hardware, so there's a good deal of technical energy that's been expended making that happen."

JoystiqStraight Right building two Wii U games that aren't Mass Effect 3 originally appeared on Joystiq on Sun, 09 Sep 2012 22:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>australiafranchisemass-effect-3nintendooriginal-ipstraight-rightwii-uSun, 09 Sep 2012 22:00:00 EST