Mass Effect

For more of: An epic RPG with memorable characters
Notable differences: Customizable protagonist, science fiction setting, multiple party members, not open-world (except Andromeda)
Availability:
Mass Effect original trilogy: Windows, Xbox 360, Xbox One, Xbox Series X, PS3 (ME3 also on Wii U)
Mass Effect Legendary Edition (Remastered original trilogy): Windows (Steam Deck OK), Xbox One, Xbox Series X/S, PS4, PS5
Mass Effect: Andromeda: Windows (Steam Deck OK), Xbox One, Xbox Series X/S, PS4, PS5

Maybe you’re in the mood for another epic RPG, but you’re tired of the sword and sorcery. Maybe you’re looking to set sail across the stars and between worlds, unraveling the secrets of the galaxy. If so, it’s hard to pass up Mass Effect

Some might say that we still haven’t had a sci-fi RPG to truly surpass the phenomena that is Mass Effect. Despite a controversial ending to its first trilogy, Mass Effect remains a titan of a shooter-RPG set in a far future in which humanity exists among a diverse spectrum of alien species.

The main trilogy has you take on the role of Commander Shepard, whose personality and morality is under your control. Some of the “morality” choices feel a little dated by modern standards, but all three games, and even its flawed spin-off Andromeda, feel very open to your actions and decisions.

Read More: Mass Effect Legendary Edition Makes The First Game Required Playing

Mass Effect will give you some RPG stats to chew on as well. Shepard and the cast of characters she or he will meet along the way each have different class roles and will make use of unique firearms and the game’s science-based magic: biotics. As in The Witcher 3, you’ll also have some romance options. The first game has more of a tactical feel to it, but 2 and 3 start to feel closer to Gears of War than an RPG if I’m being honest.

Let’s not totally leave out the ill-fated and much-maligned Mass Effect: Andromeda, either. Though its quality is well beneath the series at its best (which many would say is Mass Effect 2), it still takes place in the same imaginative sci-fi universe and is enough of a satisfying open-world RPG to give it a whirl. (The original trilogy, despite some freedom of exploration, isn’t what we’d consider open-world.)