Mass Effect Interview

Joystiq interviews BioWare’s Ray Muzyka about the Mass Effect PC port, Mass Effect 2, and other more general topics.

I know that Mass Effect PC has a new interface, but I’m curious: Which do you prefer — Xbox 360 or PC?

First off, I’m very proud of what both teams accomplished, and I’ve played both SKUs extensively, but from a personal perspective I have to say that I really am enjoying the new PC controls. The platform really lends itself to control customization and some of the new features we have like the new Tactical HUD with individual squad command and the ability to map Shepard’s biotic powers to hot keys are really fun, particularly when you combine them together.
(…)
Where does Mass Effect 2 stand in terms of production phases?

We are working on future installments in the Mass Effect franchise and the team is implementing some very cool stuff that we aren’t ready to discuss yet. Hang tight; we’ll have more information as we get closer to formally announcing new products in the Mass Effect franchise!

The new interface is pretty PC-centric, how much of it will you be able to roll into Mass Effect 2?

Each platform has inherent strengths. The Xbox 360 control is really strong in the fact that it is very easy and intuitive to control. Comparing the Xbox 360 version versus the PC, we are looking at two different audiences with different expectations and needs. That being said, I really like what the team has done with the PC version and we are looking at implementing mechanics in future Mass Effect products where they make sense. However, we’ll continue to support our fans on both PC and Xbox 360 in the future, so both SKUs need, and will have, different core interfaces.