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The 2012 release of Mass Effect 3 marked the culmination of Commander Shepard’s epic journey, concluding a five-year reign of BioWare’s narrative brilliance. This review focuses on the Mass Effect 3 component of the Mass Effect Legendary Edition, examining how this remastered version holds up and provides a final chapter to this beloved space opera.

Mass Effect 3 Commander ShepardThe Legendary Edition brings welcome improvements to the already impressive Mass Effect 3.

Refined Combat and Movement: A Galaxy at War

Mass Effect 3 takes the improved gameplay mechanics of its predecessor and refines them further, offering the most polished combat experience in the trilogy. While Mass Effect 2 felt like a tentative step into the third-person shooter genre, Mass Effect 3 fully embraces it, creating a combat system reminiscent of Mass Effect: Andromeda.

The Legendary Edition enhances this further. Shepard feels like a truly elite space warrior, wielding weapons with deadly precision and impactful force. Cover mechanics, previously clunky and unresponsive, feel much more fluid and natural, allowing for tactical maneuvers and intense firefights.

Mass Effect 3 CombatThe fluid combat and movement mechanics make every encounter engaging.

The improved gunplay adds another layer of enjoyment, making every weapon feel powerful and satisfying to use. Whether you’re pulling off satisfying quickscopes with a sniper rifle or unleashing biotic powers, Mass Effect 3 strikes a perfect balance between BioWare’s signature RPG elements and engaging, fast-paced combat. This refined gameplay truly captures the desperation and intensity of a galaxy at war.

A Controversial Conclusion, Re-examined

The ending of Mass Effect 3 remains a topic of much debate among fans. Initially criticized for limiting player choice and seemingly undermining decisions made throughout the previous games, the Extended Cut included in the Legendary Edition adds much-needed context and closure.

Mass Effect 3 EndingThe Extended Cut provides more context and closure to the ending.

Replaying the trilogy in its entirety allows for a different perspective on the conclusion. While not universally loved, the ending gains a certain weight and poignancy when considered as the culmination of Shepard’s long and arduous journey. It’s a reminder that heroic journeys don’t always end in triumphant victory, and sometimes, accepting that is part of the process.

Beyond the ending, Mass Effect 3 delivers a compelling 50-hour narrative filled with reunions with familiar faces and the forging of new alliances. Shepard’s final adventure is a rollercoaster of emotions, camaraderie, and the unwavering spirit of exploration, making it a fitting end to an epic saga.

Room for Improvement: A Missed Opportunity for a True Overhaul

While Mass Effect 3 itself is a great game, the Legendary Edition’s enhancements fall short compared to the significant upgrades seen in the first two games. The graphical improvements are less dramatic, feeling more like a light touch-up than a full remaster.

Mass Effect 3 GraphicsGraphical improvements in Mass Effect 3 are less noticeable than in the previous two games.

Furthermore, the planetary exploration, while a welcome return from the first game, feels somewhat shallow. The side quests, a weakness of the original, remain largely unchanged and lack depth. These missed opportunities prevent Mass Effect 3 Legendary Edition from feeling like the truly definitive version it could have been.

Conclusion: A Worthy Send-off for Commander Shepard

Despite its shortcomings, Mass Effect 3 Legendary Edition delivers a satisfying conclusion to Commander Shepard’s story. The refined gameplay, compelling narrative, and expanded ending make it a worthwhile experience for fans and newcomers alike. While the remaster could have gone further in some areas, it ultimately provides a fitting send-off for one of gaming’s most iconic characters.