While the fanboy discussions rage on as to whether original sci-fi RPG epic Mass Effect will make the cross-platform jump to Sony’s PlayStation 3 console, publisher Electronic Arts (EA) and developer BioWare have begun drumming up interest in the game’s eagerly anticipated sequel.
Yet more Geth inbound in Mass Effect 2. Image: BioWare.
Following fast on a small selection of leaked images captured from Mass Effect 2, an official teaser trailer has set the stage for the return of core protagonist Commander Shepard as humans and aliens alike once again prepare to battle galactic extermination at the mechanised hands of the dreaded Geth.
However, while trailers for the original Mass Effect looked to gather consumer attention by promising gamers access to freedom of movement and breathtaking scope, the first glimpse at Mass Effect 2 centres on Commander Shepard’s service history, unfolding to show the character’s iconic N7 armour being worn by none other than a triumphant Geth robot.
According to initial fan and media reaction, rumours are gathering pace as to whether Shepard’s apparent death might mean BioWare is indicating that players won’t be able to transfer their evolved character into the sequel via an existing Mass Effect game save – something the Canadian studio had indicated would be possible.
But, considering the sequel isn’t expected to hit retail until the early part of 2010, character transfer still might be on the cards while a number of possible narrative twists could cancel out the (clearly designed) shock value and rumour value assigned to the trailer.
Initially released by Microsoft Game Studios in 2007 as an Xbox 360 exclusive (before later arriving on PC in 2008 via EA), award-winning Mass Effect has since found itself continually associated with a move onto the PlayStation 3 – not least because EA is well known for increasing possible profit return by offering specific titles on multiple platforms.
EA boss John Riccitiello has recently said Mass Effect 2 will follow that multiple release blueprint, although it has not yet confirmed whether that admission covers Xbox 360, PC and PlayStation 3 or just Xbox 360 and PC.
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