Should I even bother getting any of ME's?

[pyrokin]

So I was thinking about purchasing the entire series of Mass Effect so I could get the whole experience out of the trilogy. At least I was until I learned EA won't allow it to be run without Origin (mind you I only recently thought about getting the games.)

From what I've read, EA is simply just trying to increase the amount of people that use their download service, and that they've been hypocritical as far as terms of service and use with Steam. E.g. They accepted the terms with consoles and some other third party software but not Valve's.

I just need a few opinions on whether or not I should bother with the series.

 

[endtherapture]

Try and get them all second hand, they're worth a play.

 

[Esotera]

The original Mass Effect is probably the best...it doesn't have to live up to a predecessor, the plot seems less linear (those damn loyalty missions in 2) and for some reason seems to be much better on older TVs. Also ME2 is very red compared to the tranquil blue of the original, and has cover-based shooting.

That said ME2 is well worth a play, and 3 probably is as well, although I haven't played it.

 

[Lordmarkus]

To be frank, Mass Effect 3 is spectacular, one of the absolute best games I have ever played. But, Mass Effect and especially Mass Effect 2, are better and they don't require Origin at all. So I advice you to buy them both ASAP and enjoy the crap out of two of gaming's absolute masterpieces.

 

[Wuffykins]

Well, since you brought up Origin I'll assume you're looking at the PC versions, which are the ones I've played so far ... Well, I haven't touched 3 yet, but you won't find a current lack of opinions on said title in the series at the moment.

But yeah, ME & ME2 don't need Origin. Sure, you can buy the two through it, but you can also get them through Steam. Or even track down retail copies if you look hard enough. They'll both run just fine as is, Origin or no.

As for the 'Should I?' portion of this thread, I'd suggest reading around the interwebs for that to gauge if they're really worth your time. Personally I loved Mass Effect simply for the fact it was like playing a campy, B-Grade Sci-Fi movie. I'm sure the combat in it is a little iffy for Third Person Shooter fans because it does rely on the stat points for powers and such.

ME2 certainly improved the combat (and thankfully has a demo available to give it a shot), but I found the whole story aspect went a bit Meh to me. Definitely more actiony, but still having some campy moments here and there.

But let me repeat, read up on them, definitely give the demos a shot (unfortunately there's a lack of one for the first, as like I said the combat is definitely different from 2 & 3) and then decide. Thankfully the first two are usually seen on special every now and again, so at least the dent in your wallet won't be too much if you find you don't like it as a whole.

 

[StriderShinryu]

Don't believe the hate that's taken over the internet and at least give the first two a try. ME1 and ME2 play a little differently, but you should be able to get them both for a song. Chances are, if you like sci fi, action and/or RPGs you'll find at least something to like.

In short, if they look good to you, then play them. Don't give in to the hate.

 

[Sean Hollyman]

Put weirdly, ME1 feels more sci fi-ish than 2. It sounds weird but it's the way I see it. You can explore lot's of different places,all with their own environment. ME2 is more linear and the combat is better

 

[Antari]

I haven't got ME3 and I can say I'm still alive, well, and not entirely bored. Especially with the new Wing Commander release. You can live without it. Plenty of other games to play.