Mass�Effect Introduction

Mass�Effect is arguably the most anticipated RPG since Bioware's last foray into the genre. The first game of a massive three game trilogy slated to be released over the next few years, Mass�Effect provides gamers with choices that have become Bioware's special touch on their titles. Will you play as a good character -- a Paragon -- or a bad character, known as Renegades? Or better yet, will you play as a mixture of both? Will you be a Spacer, a Colonist, or an Earthborn? A Sole Survivor, a War Hero, or Ruthless? A Soldier, Engineer, Adept, Infiltrator, Sentinel, or Vanguard? You get the idea. And those are all choices you'll make in the first five minutes of the game! Just imagine the hundreds and hundreds of choices you'll end up making when the chips are actually on the table.

If you're confused, don't worry. Lots of gamers out there are. That's where IGN Guides comes into play. We outline what everything above means and a whole lot more. Our detailed Basics section breaks down the controls, combat system, and a whole lot more. Our Walkthrough covers the game in its entirety. And our Equipment and Codex appendices will blow your mind with their attention to detail. Everything you could possibly want to know about Mass�Effect will be encompassed in this very guide.

So fear not, human. As you delve into space via the complex array of mass relays, just remember: IGN has your back.

In this Mass�Effect strategy guide, you'll find:

• BASICS // Tons of info on in-game mechanics.
• WALKTHROUGH // Our complete walkthrough.
• SIDEQUESTS // What's an RPG without options?
• EQUIPMENT // Information galore.
• CODEX // All the game's knowledge in one place.

Basics, Walkthrough and Side Quests by: Colin Moriarty | Equipment and Codex by: Samuel Claiborn