It was brought to my attention that I forgot a game review of Portal, so I thought I’d lump several games in today that I’ve been meaning to review but haven’t yet.  This is in order of me getting each game, starting with last Christmas.

Mass Effect

Mass Effect is an XBox360 (also available on PC) role playing game from Bioware, makers of some other great RPGs such as Star wars:Knights of the Old Republic and Jade Empire.  Combat is real-time like Jade, but has more of a Gears of War feel, with weapons and cover system.  RPG elements include conversation choices, ability points, logbooks, quest guides, and lots of inventory.  It has far more inventory options than Jade or KOTOR, and includes a similar crafting system of swappable upgrades for weapons and armor.

And I haven’t even mentioned the six different classes (three major classes, three mixed classes) that play quite differently and have different special skills.  And at any given time you can pick two other team members with different classes and skills to augment your setup.  One of whome is Wrex, who has the best lines of the game.

Pat’s Rating system:

• How much would I pay for the game? You should buy this game if you see it at any price.  Seriously, its original $60 is still worth it at this point.  Story, graphics, and gameplay are excellent.  It’s almost like playing a sci-fi movie.  Bonus points for the glitch that lets me get all the “Renegade” points and achievements without actually having to be a jerk in the rest of the game.
• How many times would I replay it? You will have to play it at least 3 times to get all achievements.  I made a couple of mistakes on two runs of mine, so I need to play it through 5 times.  And I will.  It is that satisfying.