Mass Effect: Andromeda

Performance issues are a huge let down, and it feels more Dragon Age than Mass Effect. But if you like open world exploration with fast paced gun fighting, and a hero story like an OTT Hollywood action movie, you'll probably like Andromeda.

There are little things to appreciate here and there: gorgeous environments, fascinating alien technology, and a healthy dose of Nolan North. But the majority of the experience is a head-scratcher. So much went wrong in so many places you wouldn’t expect from a game with such a pedigree,. But alas, Mass Effect: Andromeda is ultimately a disappointing reminder that sometimes the games industry attributes more value to a brand than the individuals who created it.

Mass Effect: Andromeda is an expansive action role-playing game with a few great moments that recapture the high points of the landmark trilogy that came before it, and energetic combat and fantastic sound effects contribute to a potent sci-fi atmosphere. Without consistently strong writing or a breakout star in its cast to carry it through the long hours and empty spaces, however, disappointments like a lack of new races, no companion customization, and major performance problems and bugs take their toll.