Mass Effect was different from the start. First we had the Mass Effect novel Revelation, which we reviewed just after its release. It was well written and had an exceptionally deep story, and if there's anything great about a game other than gameplay, it should be the story.

Its release couldn't have come at a worse time...for some of us. Knowing how it could easily take over 30 hours to go through just once, and that there was undoubtedly two or three runs through at the minimum to complete most of the game on a respectable difficulty, options were limited. Either play this one game or five others. My fear of RPG's won out.

Come early January and my order finally went through for the limited edition version, with the extra art book, DVD and intergalactic manual, all in a nice tin case. As if living up to its name, no one was carrying it, but it's available now, and it's worth the extra cash.

Slap the disc in and you're treated to creating a character. Unsurprising, but the level of customization is unrivaled. It's like creating a Mii, except that it looks realistic, not cartoony. Not only is there facial customization, but background and abilities are up for the taking before you start. These things are important for the entirety of the game, so assume you're going to play through again or pick very wisely.

Of the abilities, there are six different classes each utilizing the three abilities. Three classes are strictly one ability each, and the other three classes have two abilities which are powered halfway. Combat is for weapons use, speed, vitality and general soldier stuff; tech abilities uses an omnitool to do things such as disabling opponents weapons or hacking in to machines; and biotics is a set of telekinetic powers to throw objects and people, make shields, etc.