Mass Effect 3: RPG or Shooter?

The editors of Official Xbox Magazine UK asks themselves the titular question in a preview where they analyze the information that has been circulating on Mass Effect 3’s combat system so far. Here’s a snippet:

On the face of it, then, there’s nothing wrong with the idea of stripping away dead wood. Where BioWare needs to watch its step is in cutting back too far, streamlining that crucial element of choice out of existence – and on this front, we’re relieved to say that the omens are good.

Classes are better distinguished, with new special powers like the Engineer’s fiery Omni-wrench swipe, or the Adept’s stunning biotic pulse takedown. Those abilities can be upgraded further too: slap some levels on a Vanguard’s Charge move and you’ll hit harder, do more damage and cool down quicker.

Weapons are more customisable, with a welter of barrels, magazines, ammunition types and scopes to choose between. Cryogenic ammo, for instance, allows you to freeze opponents solid before polishing them off with the vanilla variety.

Expanded level layouts and a slew of new enemy types will oblige you to make more effective – dare we say it, creative – use of your abilities and weapons. Shield-bearing foes will rebuff frontal fire, and Cerberus operatives in rocket boots will stop you turning turtle.