We’re trying hard not to look at this news through the cracked lens of our formerly unshakeable trust in Bioware, but apparently Mass Effect 3 will be trying to go after the ever elusive “larger market”. Just like Mass Effect 2 did, incredibly successfully to boot. So why are we so apprehensive all of a sudden?
“One of the things that Ray Muzyka and the team up in Edmonton have done is essentially step-by-step adjust the gameplay mechanics and some of the features that you’ll see at E3 to put this in a genre equivalent to shooter-meets-RPG,” according to EA’s John Riccitiello, “and essentially address a much larger market opportunity than Mass Effect 1 and Mass Effect 2 began to approach.” Make no mistake, the only good news in there is that we get to see it at E3. And some more bad news to pile on top of that; the game is being pushed back to 2012.
Expanding the Market
The decision to target a larger market is not entirely surprising. Mass Effect 2 managed to strike a balance between RPG elements and shooter mechanics, which broadened its appeal. However, the concern lies in how far Bioware will go to attract this “larger market.” Will the game lose its core RPG elements that made it a beloved franchise in the first place? The fear is that in trying to appeal to everyone, the game might end up pleasing no one.
Bioware has a history of creating deeply engaging RPGs with intricate storylines and complex characters. The original Mass Effect was a testament to this, offering players a rich narrative experience. Mass Effect 2, while more action-oriented, still retained much of its RPG roots. The challenge for Mass Effect 3 will be to maintain this balance while introducing new elements to attract a broader audience.
Gameplay Mechanics and Features
John Riccitiello’s statement about adjusting gameplay mechanics and features raises several questions. What changes are being made, and how will they impact the overall experience? For instance, will there be more emphasis on combat and less on dialogue and decision-making? These are crucial aspects that define the Mass Effect series.
One possible change could be the introduction of more streamlined combat mechanics to make the game more accessible to new players. This might include simplified controls, more intuitive interfaces, and perhaps even a more forgiving difficulty curve. While these changes could attract new players, they might also alienate long-time fans who appreciate the depth and complexity of the original games.
Another area of concern is the narrative. Mass Effect is known for its branching storylines and player choices that have lasting consequences. Simplifying these elements to appeal to a broader audience could dilute the richness of the story. However, if done correctly, it could also make the game more engaging for a wider range of players.
Delays and Expectations
The news that Mass Effect 3 is being pushed back to 2012 is disappointing but not entirely unexpected. Game development is a complex process, and delays are often necessary to ensure a polished final product. However, this delay also raises expectations. Fans will be looking for significant improvements and innovations to justify the extended wait.
One area where Bioware could focus its efforts is in the game’s technical aspects. Improved graphics, more detailed environments, and smoother animations could enhance the overall experience. Additionally, expanding the multiplayer component could attract a broader audience and add replay value.
In conclusion, while the news about Mass Effect 3 targeting a larger market and being delayed to 2012 is met with mixed feelings, it also presents an opportunity. If Bioware can successfully balance the new gameplay mechanics with the core elements that made the series popular, Mass Effect 3 could be a groundbreaking title. The key will be to innovate without losing sight of what made the original games special. Fans will be eagerly awaiting more details at E3, hoping that their beloved franchise will continue to evolve while staying true to its roots.
Latest Geeky Gadgets Deals
Disclosure: Some of our articles include affiliate links. If you buy something through one of these links, Geeky Gadgets may earn an affiliate commission. Learn about our Disclosure Policy.
