Summary

• Release Year: 2008
• Genres: Role-playing game (RPG), Shooter
• Platforms: PC (Microsoft Windows), PlayStation 3, Xbox 360
• Developers: BioWare
• Publishers: BioWare, Electronic Arts

Mass Effect: Bring Down the Sky: A Detailed Review

Introduction

Mass Effect: Bring Down the Sky is the first downloadable content (DLC) pack for the critically acclaimed role-playing game Mass Effect. Released in 2008, Bring Down the Sky takes place in the Asgard system, where an asteroid has been hijacked and sent on a collision course with the human colony of Terra Nova. Commander Shepard and the crew of the Normandy must race against time to stop the asteroid and save the colony.

Gameplay

Bring Down the Sky features new missions, characters, and weapons that expand upon the gameplay of the original Mass Effect. Players will explore new areas, fight new enemies, and make new choices that will affect the outcome of the story.

One of the most significant additions to the gameplay is the inclusion of the Mako, a powerful all-terrain vehicle that can be used to explore the asteroid’s surface. The Mako is a versatile vehicle that can be used to traverse difficult terrain, engage in combat, and solve puzzles.

Another new feature in Bring Down the Sky is the ability to recruit two new squadmates: Ashley Williams and Kaidan Alenko. Both Ashley and Kaidan are human soldiers who have their own unique skills and abilities. Players can choose to bring either Ashley or Kaidan on their missions, or they can bring both of them.

Story

The story of Bring Down the Sky is well-written and engaging. The player is immediately thrust into the action as the asteroid hurtles towards Terra Nova. Commander Shepard and the crew of the Normandy must quickly investigate the situation and find a way to stop the asteroid.

As the player progresses through the story, they will uncover a conspiracy that goes far beyond the hijacked asteroid. The player will also learn more about the characters of Ashley and Kaidan, and how they fit into the overall story of Mass Effect.

Characters

One of the strengths of Bring Down the Sky is its well-developed characters. Ashley Williams is a tough and determined soldier who is fiercely loyal to her comrades. Kaidan Alenko is a more reserved and contemplative soldier who is always willing to question authority. Both Ashley and Kaidan are well-written characters who add depth to the story of Mass Effect.

In addition to Ashley and Kaidan, Bring Down the Sky also features a number of other memorable characters, including:

• Admiral Hackett: The commander of the Systems Alliance Navy.
• Dr. Liara T’Soni: A brilliant asari scientist who is a member of Shepard’s team.
• Garrus Vakarian: A turian sniper who is another member of Shepard’s team.
• Wrex: A krogan mercenary who is a powerful ally to Shepard.

Graphics and Sound

Bring Down the Sky uses the same graphics engine as the original Mass Effect. The graphics are still impressive, even by today’s standards. The character models are well-detailed, and the environments are lush and immersive.

The sound design in Bring Down the Sky is also top-notch. The voice acting is excellent, and the music is both atmospheric and exciting.

Overall

Mass Effect: Bring Down the Sky is an excellent DLC pack that expands upon the gameplay, story, and characters of the original Mass Effect. The new missions are well-designed, the new characters are well-developed, and the story is engaging. If you’re a fan of Mass Effect, then you won’t want to miss Bring Down the Sky.

Score: 8.5/10

Review Score

8.5/10

Art

Cover Art

Screenshots