Mass Effect: Andromeda offers an open world filled with tasks
“Freedom” was such a buzzword for Mass Effect: Andromeda. But is it really there? Or is everything linear?
The Combat System – More Freedom and Action
As the developers promised, fighting in ME:A is more dynamic than in the predecessors. Ryder no longer only “moves from cover to cover”, but quick actions and changing positions are often necessary. Opponents often throw grenades or flank if you stay in one position too long. Occasional brutal “just go for it” attacks can be successful but are usually heavily punished. Planning and strategy are part of the day-to-day routine, especially in larger conflicts.
We have great freedom in the selection of skills. There are no pre-made classes anymore – Ryder can do everything and nothing. Anyone who wants can distribute his points evenly in Biotic, Tech, and Combat to be ready for any situation. Specializations (like pure Biotic) are possible and rewarded with additional bonuses.
For example, there are additional biotic explosions or increased shield strength when we specialize. However, we are at a disadvantage against armored opponents and have to rely on our teammates.
Another point is weaponry and gear. All items come in multiple levels, so eventually, changing clothes becomes mandatory. Whether we research and build new weapons ourselves on the Tempest or loot them on the battlefield is up to us. Running around with starting gear forever is not an option, because at the latest in the first boss fight, you will get familiar with the “mission failed” screen.
Exploration with the Nomad
On larger planets like Eos, exploration mainly takes place with the Nomad. It somewhat resembles the Mako from the first part of the series, but is easier to control. The handling of the vehicle is intuitive, and you can tell that the planets have been designed for exploration with the Nomad.
As a special “treat” from forgotten times, the “planet scanning” is back. This time sources of precious resources are sniffed out with the Nomad, and then a drill is placed at the appropriate location. This is just as annoying as scanning planets in part 2 of the series, but also satisfying when you hit the right spot where resources rain down.
However, the Nomad is not as “overpowered” as the Mako in part 1. Enemies can rarely be killed by running them over, so getting out to do the dirty work by hand, biotic, and firepower becomes necessary.
Scanning with SAM
Since the whole world is unknown, we need to gather as much data as possible for the Initiative. Almost always, we have the opportunity to turn on our scanner to search the environment for important information. SAM then tells us everything he could find out about an object or location.
We often find new technologies, solve crimes, and find clues. This is rewarded with additional missions and research points that we can invest to make new technologies usable. Particularly handy: Our scanner also detects cloaked enemies, so we can order our teammates to open fire. While scanning, we cannot use weapons.
The next page is about side missions, fluff, and philosophical aspects.
