In Mass Effect, users play as Commander Shepard. You can select from either a male or female version of the commander before the game begins. In this first game of the trilogy, the human race has just learned the Reapers are approaching. These giant robots have just one goal in mind: exterminating all life in the galaxy. With a reaper fast approaching earth, Shepard must assemble a team and figure out how to stop it. It wont be easy, as villains such as Saren, a rogue special agent, stand in your path. Saren is doing everything he can to sabotage your attempts. This BioWare title was published by Microsoft and Electronic Arts in 2007. Mass Effect features over 40 hours of content for players to explore.Mass Effect is best described as an action role-playing game. There are numerous space stations where you can talk to characters, buy items, and obtain quests. These quests range from story-based objectives to helping protect the local citizens. Completing quests earns you money and experience. Money helps you purchase new equipment, while experience helps you gain levels. With every new level you reach, you get more health and more bionic abilities. Throughout the title, youll choose the dialogue that you want Shepard to say. Frequently, youll make a choice between good and evil dialogue options, which influence both this title and the future games in the series. For example, a choice made here could have repercussions all the way up to Mass Effect 3. There are even romantic options you can pursue. The romance you begin here will last throughout the other games as well.Words will only get you so far in this Xbox 360 exclusive title. Similar to Mass Effect 3, you eventually will need to engage your foes in combat. You can select two additional crew members to take with you into battle where you control your character using a third-person view. You can take cover behind objects in the environment. You can also use your unique biotic abilities to destroy your enemies. Weapons range from simple pistols to giant rocket launchers. Depending on the class you choose at the beginning of the title, the missions will play out differently. For example, one character class may rely on robotic hacking abilities to win in combat. Another class may rely on brute force to overpower the enemy. The Mass Effect Limited Collectors Edition comes with an array of items any fan of the series will love. Youll receive a 36-page book detailing a timeline of the universe and the various races. An additional 36-page art book includes concept art such as early pictures of the Normandy ship. This limited-edition package also features a bonus DVD with over 10 pieces of content. Youll receive digital items such as Xbox profile pictures and demos of other Microsoft games. Every collector will love the four documentaries that show how the title was made. You will also receive videos such as the original trailers used to reveal the title at conventions. This title combines fast-paced action with a deep story. To get the full impact of later games like Mass Effect 3, you need to start with this title.