Mass Effect: Andromeda was a big shake-up for the popular BioWare-developed franchise, as it brought a brand-new protagonist into the spotlight. This change, and a list of other differences, made Mass Effect: Andromeda quite the divisive title among the fan base at launch, but the franchise still has a chance to bounce back.
One of the biggest points of criticism regarding Andromeda was its story. While less emotional and gripping than other entries in the Mass Effect series, there are still gems of potential to be found throughout the game. The mixed reception to Andromeda makes the prospect of Mass Effect 4 intriguing. The game is caught in a difficult position, as it has to meet the high expectations set by the original Mass Effect trilogy. A lot of players are likely hoping for a game more like the trilogy, which is understandable, but Andromeda has at least paved the way for a compelling path forward: an anthology series.
Mass Effect: The Case For BioWare to Pass the Torch After ME4
BioWare has been struggling since the release of Mass Effect 3, and it might be time for it to move on and focus on other projects.
Mass Effect Could Start Fresh By Embracing an Anthology Formula
Taking Note of Another BioWare Franchise
- The Dragon Age games continue to feature fresh protagonists for each new game.
BioWare has brought forth two hugely successful franchises with Mass Effect and Dragon Age, and taking note of the latter's approach to its main characters may be the best way to ensure the sci-fi series' longevity. Granted, it will be difficult to craft a protagonist as strong as Shepard again, but it's not impossible. Also, depending on which Mass Effect 3 ending BioWare decides to choose as canon, leaving Shepard behind may be inevitable.
Moving forward, new faces will likely have to lead the story, and this could ultimately be the stronger option if executed well. If Dragon Age can continue its narrative and expand its lore through the eyes of different protagonists, it would only make sense for Mass Effect to be able to do this, too. Of course, some Dragon Age protagonists are stronger than others, but the long wait for Mass Effect 4 hopefully signals that the game's writers are working to make as strong of a main character as possible.
The teaser trailer for Mass Effect 4 hints at the return of Liara.
Andromeda Has Set the Stage for New Characters to Lead its Stories
The story of Andromeda may not have been its strongest aspect, but it leaves the door wide open for BioWare to strengthen any continuing narrative via fresh faces. Since Andromeda introduced a new lead, Mass Effect 4 switching to another character wouldn't be that jarring.
Andromeda left a lot to be desired when it came to building its main character through in-game choices, so Mass Effect 4 embracing a blank slate to better execute its RPG elements could be more effective than trying to flesh out Ryder more.
If Dragon Age can continue its narrative and expand its lore through the eyes of different protagonists, it would only make sense for Mass Effect to be able to do this, too.
Fresh Mass Effect 4 News is Hopefully Waiting On the Horizon
- A short trailer teasing the next Mass Effect was released back in 2020.
- A series of hints have been offered since, but nothing particularly detailed.
- N7 Day could hold new announcements or updates.
Last year's N7 Day may have come up short on Mass Effect 4 news, but there is always the chance that something new will be revealed. Since the game's trailer in 2020, N7 Day has been used to offer eager fans small breadcrumbs of updates, but the wait still continues for news regarding a release window or even a full-length trailer. A larger announcement on N7 Day isn't guaranteed, but after such a long wait, this year hopefully has more in store for Mass Effect fans.
Mass Effect: Andromeda
-
OpenCritic Reviews
- Top Critic Avg: 72 /100 Critics Rec: 40%
- Released
- March 1, 2017
- ESRB
- M for Mature: Blood, Nudity, Strong Language, Strong Sexual Content, Violence
- Developer(s)
- BioWare
- Publisher(s)
- Electronic Arts
- Engine
- Frostbite 3
- Multiplayer
- Online Multiplayer
- Franchise
- Mass Effect
