Top 10 Games Like Mass Effect: When talking about some of the most iconic role-playing games, the Mass Effect series inevitably comes to mind. With its deep storylines, complex character development, and immersive universe, Mass Effect has left a lasting impression on the gaming world. However, as fans wait for the next installment of this sci-fi epic, many are seeking games like Mass Effect to fill that void. Fortunately, several alternatives offer similar experiences with rich narratives, diverse characters, and engaging sci-fi settings. Let’s take a look at some of the best games that fans of Mass Effect can dive into while awaiting the franchise’s much-anticipated return.
Initial release date: 31 October 2024
Platforms: PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X and Series S, Microsoft Windows
Developer: BioWare
Publisher: Electronic Arts
Dragon Age: The Veilguard is an upcoming action RPG being developed by BioWare and published by Electronic Arts. As the fourth main installment in the Dragon Age series, The Veilguard serves as the direct sequel to Dragon Age: Inquisition. Though it’s not a Mass Effect game, Dragon Age: The Veilguard is another BioWare project that fans should keep an eye on. Known for its captivating storytelling and character progression, Dragon Age shares many elements with Mass Effect. While the setting and combat style differ—leaning more toward medieval fantasy—the writing style, choice-driven gameplay, and relationship-building are very much in line with what Mass Effect fans enjoy.
2. Warhammer 40,000: Space Marine 2
Initial release date: 2024
Platforms: PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X and Series S, GeForce Now, Microsoft Windows
Developer: Saber Interactive
Publisher: Pullup Entertainment
If you’re craving epic battles and space exploration, Warhammer 40,000: Space Marine 2 is another game like Mass Effect to consider. While it leans more towards action-packed combat than complex storylines, the game offers a unique sci-fi experience. It features team-based combat and, unlike Mass Effect, includes co-op play, allowing players to fight alongside friends against massive threats from across the galaxy.
3. Warframe
Genres: Third-person shooter, Massively multiplayer online game
Publisher: Digital Extremes
Warframe is an online action RPG that has evolved significantly since its release. Starting as a linear mission-based game, it has since expanded into an open-world experience that allows for exploration and deep customization. Like Mass Effect, Warframe places you in a universe teeming with enemies, unique abilities, and a rich, evolving narrative. The game offers hundreds of hours of content, making it a long-term investment for sci-fi RPG fans.
4. The Expanse: A Telltale Series
Platforms: PlayStation 5, PlayStation 4, Xbox One, Microsoft Windows, Xbox Series X and Series S, Amazon Luna
Initial release date: 2023
Developers: Telltale Games, Deck Nine
Genres: Graphic adventure game, Adventure
Fans of rich storytelling will appreciate The Expanse: A Telltale Series. Though more of a graphic novel experience than a full-fledged RPG, it shares Mass Effect’s player-driven decision-making and narrative depth. Based on the critically acclaimed TV series, this episodic game is a perfect way to immerse yourself in a complex sci-fi universe while waiting for the next Mass Effect title.
5. Helldivers 2
Platforms: PlayStation 5, Microsoft Windows
Initial release date: 8 February 2024
Developer: Arrowhead Game Studios
Publishers: PlayStation Studios, Sony Interactive Entertainment, PlayStation Publishing LLC
Helldivers 2 stands out for its co-op gameplay, a significant departure from Mass Effect’s single-player focus. However, it shares some core mechanics, such as third-person shooting and planet-hopping missions. While its story leans heavily on satire, Helldivers 2 is a fast-paced, thrilling experience for fans who enjoy teamwork and strategic gameplay in a sci-fi setting.
6. Lost Planet: Extreme Condition
Developer: Capcom
Platforms: Microsoft Windows, Xbox 360, PlayStation 3
Initial release date: 21 December 2006
Publisher: Capcom
Though less focused on narrative than Mass Effect, Lost Planet delivers thrilling combat and an atmospheric sci-fi world. Set on a hostile, ice-covered planet, players battle giant alien creatures using a wide variety of weapons and gadgets. Fans of Mass Effect will appreciate the intense battles and the challenge of surviving in an unforgiving environment.
7. Outriders
Initial release date: 1 April 2021
Platforms: PlayStation 5, PlayStation 4, Xbox One, GeForce Now, Microsoft Windows, Xbox Series X and Series S, Google Stadia
Developer: People Can Fly
Genres: Role-playing Video Game, Third-person shooter, Action-adventure game
Outriders offers a blend of third-person shooting, RPG elements, and a customizable class system that will appeal to Mass Effect fans. With its post-apocalyptic setting, the game allows players to create their own character and take on missions with a variety of skills and builds. Though its narrative doesn’t match the depth of Mass Effect, Outriders makes up for it with its fast-paced gameplay and co-op options.
8. Vampire: The Masquerade - Bloodlines
Platform: Microsoft Windows
Initial release date: 16 November 2004
Developer: Troika Games
Publishers: Activision, Activision Blizzard
Although it’s not a sci-fi game, Vampire: The Masquerade – Bloodlines shares many features with Mass Effect, including meaningful choices, strong character writing, and complex narratives. Set in a world of vampires and political intrigue, this cult classic is a great pick for fans who enjoy morally gray decisions and deep RPG mechanics.
9. Cyberpunk 2077
Initial release date: 10 December 2020
Developers: CD Projekt RED, CD Projekt
Platforms: PlayStation 5, PlayStation 4, Xbox Series X and Series S, Xbox One, GeForce Now, Microsoft Windows, Google Stadia
Despite a rocky launch, Cyberpunk 2077 has evolved into a fantastic RPG with a rich, vibrant world much like Mass Effect. Its futuristic setting, combined with an immersive story, deep character customization, and choice-driven gameplay, make it a worthy alternative. The expansive open-world design of Night City is packed with missions, memorable characters, and plenty of secrets to uncover.
10. Sword Art Online: Fatal Bullet
Platforms: Nintendo Switch, PlayStation 4, Xbox One, Microsoft Windows
Initial release date: 8 February 2018
Developers: Dimps, BANDAI NAMCO Entertainment
Publishers: BANDAI NAMCO Entertainment, Namco Bandai Games America Inc.
For anime fans, Sword Art Online: Fatal Bullet offers a unique experience that mirrors certain aspects of Mass Effect. While its combat is more action-packed and fast-paced, the game features a team-building mechanic where you assemble a squad to take on missions. Fans of both Mass Effect and Sword Art Online will enjoy the blend of gunplay, RPG mechanics, and relationship-building.
Conclusion
While the wait for a new Mass Effect game might be long, these games like Mass Effect provide plenty of rich storytelling, character development, and immersive worlds to explore. From action-packed shooters like Warhammer 40,000: Space Marine 2 to narrative-driven titles like The Expanse: A Telltale Series, there’s something for every fan of the sci-fi RPG genre.
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FAQs
Q1. What makes Mass Effect special?
Ans: Mass Effect stands out for its deep storytelling, well-written characters, and a universe that feels alive with choice-driven gameplay.
Q2. Are there any upcoming Mass Effect games?
Ans: As of now, BioWare has confirmed that a new Mass Effect game is in development, but no release date has been announced.
Q3. Which game is the closest to Mass Effect in terms of gameplay?
Ans: Dragon Age games by BioWare share a similar approach to storytelling and character progression. Cyberpunk 2077 and Warframe also offer open-world experiences with strong narrative elements.
Q4. Can I play any of these games on the same platforms as Mass Effect?
Ans: Yes, many of the games listed, such as Warframe and Cyberpunk 2077, are available on multiple platforms, including PC, PlayStation, and Xbox.
Q5. Do these games have multiplayer modes?
Ans: Some of these games, such as Warframe and Helldivers 2, offer multiplayer modes where you can team up with friends or other players online.
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