Mass Effect Legendary Edition vs the original
Mass Effect Legendary Edition (2021) is a remaster of the whole original trilogy in one package. It upgrades textures, lighting and resolution up to 4K, bundles almost all single-player DLC, and makes the biggest changes to Mass Effect 1: better combat, aiming and Mako driving. It does not include Mass Effect 3's online multiplayer, and the Pinnacle Station DLC is missing.
Main differences
- Three games in one. Mass Effect, Mass Effect 2 and Mass Effect 3 with one shared launcher.
- DLC included. Nearly all story and item DLC, such as Bring Down the Sky, Lair of the Shadow Broker, Arrival and Citadel.
- Graphics. Higher-resolution textures, improved lighting and character models, especially in the first game.
- Mass Effect 1 gameplay. Tighter aiming and weapon handling, less random spread, improved Mako handling, faster elevators and fixes to inventory annoyances.
- Unified character creator. More customization options, used across all three games.
- Galaxy at War. ME3's war readiness no longer depends on multiplayer, which was removed.
- Missing. ME3 multiplayer and the Pinnacle Station DLC.
Should you play the originals instead?
For most players Legendary Edition is the best way in. The originals only matter if you want ME3 multiplayer history or specific mods built for them.
FAQ
How many games are in Mass Effect Legendary Edition?
Three: Mass Effect (2007), Mass Effect 2 (2010) and Mass Effect 3 (2012). Mass Effect: Andromeda is not included.
Can I play it without an EA account?
On PC the game runs through the EA app, which requires an EA account. On consoles the campaigns play with your console account.
Can you play Legendary Edition offline?
Yes, the campaigns are single-player. You may need to be online for the first launch or activation, depending on platform.
Can everyone survive the suicide mission in Mass Effect 2?
Yes. With full loyalty, ship upgrades and the right choices, the whole squad can survive.