Cert: 15+
Platform: Xbox 360, PC
Genre: RPG

Mass Effect 2 is one of the most hyped RPG games to date and much like the Lord of the Rings: The Two Towers follows directly on from the events of it's predecessor.

Gamers can import their saves from the first game and tweak their character as they see fit. The shocking opening sucks players right into the action. To give anything away here would just be a spoiler, suffice to say Commander Shephard returns.

The sequel is packed with references to the decisions players made and the people killed or saved in the original. This doesn't stop those who never played the first game enjoying Mass Effect 2 sequel but their experience is bound to be less rewarding.

BioWare have crafted a release that expands and builds on the best bits of it's predecessor, such as the biotic powers and engrossing plot, and fixes or gets rid of the worst bits, such as the elevator loading sections and the cut and paste side quests.

The graphics, sound and general game mechanics are all improved and while the title is not cutting edge it looks and feels up to date. The voice acting in the game is superb too with particular credit due to Martin Sheen who plays the Illusive Man.

The numerous decisions players have to make and the variety of endings means there's plenty of reasons to replay the game once the credits role, to say nothing of the proposed downloadable content and that the space opera is to conclude in Mass Effect 3.

Rent or Buy: Buy
Graphics: 4/5
Game Play: 5/5
Replay Value: 4/5
Overall: 4/5

Reviewed By: Bryan Collins