Updated at: 14-05-2022 - By: Leo Hall

One of the best and most important RPG series from late 2000s, as well as BioWare’s brilliant crown jewels, Mass Effect is without a doubt.

In spite of its flaws, it was one of the most unforgettable sci-fi adventures ever made, even if it wasn’t perfect.

Mass Effect, on the other hand, is a series that, when all is said and done, can be compared to very few other games. It is a sci-fi action RPG experience that’s not easy to replicate, but in this game guide, we’ll list some of the best games that are similar to it in one way or another.

Star Wars: Knights of the Old Republic

Release Date: July 15th, 2003

We begin with BioWare’s most popular and renowned product, Star Wars: Knights of the Old Republic, which shares many design features with Mass Effect, particularly in the story department. BioWare was able to design a new environment that was not restricted by the established movie canon because the game takes place thousands of years before the events of the original Star Wars trilogy.

Star Wars: Knights of the Old Republic Remake đang được phát triển?

Combat in KotOR isn’t very good; it’s based on a d20 system, and the only thing you can do is choose the correct group of companions to fight with, and then queue up different combat actions. However, the game’s combat isn’t what elevates it to the status of one of the all-time greats.

The plot and characters of KotOR are the game’s most impressive aspects. This game, like Mass Effect, includes a diverse cast of people with rich backstories who play a significant role in bringing the story to life, even if some plot points and NPC language don’t hold up very well under scrutiny in 2022

Even while Knights of the Old Republic isn’t an action RPG, it has a lot in common with Mass Effect when it comes to its general plot ideas and execution, and it’s one of the best BioWare games ever released, so it’s sure to appeal to Mass Effect fans.

Dragon Age: Origins

Scheduled for release on 3rd November 2009

In between Mass Effect and Mass Effect 2 came Dragon Age: Origins, another critically praised BioWare RPG. As a result, despite the fact that the game takes place in a dark fantasy world rather than a sci-fi setting, it is still an excellent BioWare game.

While it’s not an action RPG, the combat in Dragon Age: Origins is far more sophisticated than in Knights of the Old Republic. Origins appealed to both casual gamers and die-hard role-playing game aficionados alike thanks to its four-player party structure and more nuanced tactical system.

The overall tone of the story and the setting is noticeably darker than in Mass Effect or Knights of the Old Republic, but is still decidedly BioWare, with an epic story and a good selection of companions, each with their unique character quirks and storylines.

That said, much like Knights of the Old Republic, Dragon Age: Origins is a must-play for any Mass Effect fan, as it has all the same strengths that make Mass Effect so great.

Jade Empire

That said, much like Knights of the Old Republic, Dragon Age: Origins is a must-play for any Mass Effect fan, as it has all the same strengths that make Mass Effect so great.

That being said, Dragon Age Origins is a must-play for any Mass Effect fan because it shares many of the game’s strengths.

This time, instead of a full-fledged RPG, Jade Empire is an action game with simplified RPG components. Even in 2022, the fighting system still holds up quite well, despite its obvious age. Although the primary narrative experience is comparable to other BioWare games, it is more linear than Mass Effect or Dragon Age: Origins.

If you were to attempt playing Jade Empire today, the biggest problem you’d have isn’t with the game itself, but with how it’s currently being marketed. Technical difficulties are to blame. There is a lot of difficulty getting Jade Empire to work on modern hardware because the game hasn’t been updated in years.

Regardless, if you do manage to get the game to run, you definitely won’t regret it, as it’s yet another great entry in the streak of outstanding games that BioWare released throughout the 2000s.

The Witcher

The game is still worth playing if you can get it to run, as it continues BioWare’s impressive run of quality titles that began in the early 2000s and continued well into today.

Not only did the original Mass Effect kick off an incredible RPG series in 2007, but it wasn’t the only one. CD Projekt launched the first Witcher game just a month ago, and the series has since grown into a multi-billion dollar franchise.

The fighting system in the original Witcher game was unique to say the least. Different fighting tactics and potions were used depending on the type of enemy the player encountered. Aside from that, chaining combinations was a matter of continuously clicking on foes during their attack animations at precisely the proper instant.

However, unlike in the case of Knights of the Old Republic, The Witcher’s combat was never particularly noteworthy. To put it another way, this game’s location and story were what set it apart from the rest at the time, and no other game managed to pull it off quite as effectively.

We can’t talk about The Witcher without addressing its sequels, of course.

The Witcher 2: Assassins of Kings, which included a more straightforward combat system but retained most of the other design elements that made the original such a successful game, only increased the franchise’s popularity. It wasn’t until 2015 that The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt arrived, bringing near-perfect fighting and a magnificent open world to the series, while still maximizing the best features of the original setting.

As a final conclusion, the Witcher series is the best RPG out there if you’re looking for memorable characters, an expansive world to explore, and an engaging tale with a high degree of player freedom.

Vampire: The Masquerade – Bloodlines

Date of Release: November 16, 2004

It’s impossible to talk about classic RPGs without mentioning Vampire: The Masquerade–Bloodlines. It is set in White Wolf’s World of Darkness, a bleak reflection of the real world in which terrible monsters rule the night.

This action RPG features a selection of several vampire clans that each have their own unique talents that can be used in combat, stealth, or social situations. In contrast to other acclaimed RPGs we’ve already covered, Bloodlines’ fighting system is awkward, especially by 2022 standards.

Again, this is a game that will stay with you long after the credits have rolled because of the environment, the tale, and the memorable characters. Replay value is high, and it successfully blends reality with fiction. It’s a must-have for RPG fans everywhere.

Additionally, it’s worth noting that Bloodlines is known for its numerous problems and the lengthy time it took for fans to fix them and restore some of the content that was omitted during the hasty construction of the game. The unauthorized patch is a must if you decide to buy the game in the future!

FTL: Faster Than Light

To Be Released On: Tuesday 14 September 2012

As far as RPGs go, this one is a bit of an oddball. Rather, FTL: Faster Than Light can best be described as a roguelike real-time strategy game with some RPG elements and procedurally generated levels.

It’s a simple goal: get to the end of the sector ahead of the enemy before they catch up, while exploring as much of the map as you can in the process. Keep an eye on your ship’s systems and your crew’s well-being during combat while on this journey.

A procedurally generated Roguelike, FTL has an excellent replay value and will keep you on the edge of your seat when things go wrong, which is why it’s one of the best Roguelikes out there today.

If you’re looking for a game like Mass Effect, this isn’t the first one to spring to mind. However, it will undoubtedly appeal to those who enjoyed the space adventure in Mass Effect.

The Outer Worlds

Release Date: 25th of October, 2019

A more recent RPG comes from Obsidian, the developer of the popular The Outer Worlds, a sci-fi action RPG that looks a lot like Mass Effect at first glance.

There are several design features from Mass Effect that can be found in this game’s gameplay, including a ship that serves as the player’s central hub and various friends who have their own strengths and weaknesses and can enhance the player’s abilities in various ways. Obviously, there is a lot of dialogue and NPC interaction, as well as numerous endings in this game.

According to Obsidian’s excellent track record, it is easy to see why The Outer Worlds has been so popular among sci-fi RPG enthusiasts. Despite this, the game may feel more like a Bethesda RPG than BioWare’s.

Fallout New Vegas

On October 19, 2010, it will be released.

A sci-fi RPG list would not be complete without Fallout: New Vegas, which is one of the greatest Fallout games ever developed and one of the most recent ones..

Fallout: New Vegas Trailer - E3 2010 - YouTube

The setting and gameplay mechanics of this action role-playing game, set in a post-apocalyptic wasteland that used to be the United States, are very different from Mass Effect.

While most RPGs tend to fail in these areas, New Vegas excels in many of them. There is a lot of repeat value in the game because of the well-written NPCs, diverse objectives, and the degree of player agency it provides. At the same time, the game is serious and lighthearted at the same time.

It’s worth noting, though, that Fallout: New Vegas is a worthy addition to this list of must-play RPGs, even if it doesn’t appear to be all that similar to Mass Effect at first appearance.

Alpha Protocol

Obsidian Entertainment is the developer.

First up is a game that bears a striking resemblance to Mass Effect in a variety of ways. Mass Effect’s best features are present in Alpha Protocol, with an engaging dialogue system at the top of the list. It’s evocative to Mass Effect’s Paragon/Renegade morality system, letting you to choose between “good” and “evil” responses in dialogue.

Even still, the parallels don’t end there. In Alpha Protocol, a cover-based shooting RPG, BioWare’s best work is plainly evident. In comparison to Mass Effect’s lavish production values, Alpha Protocol is unquestionably more modestly budgeted.

Prey

Applicant: Arkane Studios.

Prey is one of the PS4/Xbox One generation’s best-kept secrets, with a devoted following like Mass Effect. The dynamic landscape of Prey lends itself to exploration and experimenting with the game’s elements. Prey, like Mass Effect, offers a wide variety of scenarios in which players can make decisions that have an impact on the game’s fate.

Prey’s plotline is just as strong as the last film’s, with some plot twists and turns that stand up to the greatest of the finest. It’s a spooky, eerie, and thought-provoking space exploration game. As a more sinister and ominous game than Mass Effect, Prey is definitely worth checking out, especially if you’re seeking for something new to play that also incorporates some well-known features.

Fallout: New Vegas

Obsidian Entertainment is the developer.

There is a lot more in common between Fallout: New Vegas and Mass Effect than you might expect. There are numerous branching pathways, memorable personalities, and challenging objectives to complete in Fallout: New Vegas. The RPG components of Fallout: New Vegas will be familiar to fans of Mass Effect.

You can customize your character to your heart’s content in this highly customizable role-playing game. In Fallout: New Vegas, you won’t be saving the galaxy, but you’ll be enthralled by its compelling plot. Considering the game’s age, it’s amazing how well it still plays.

Greedfall

Developer: Spiders

Greedfall, like many of the other games on this list, is an action RPG that places an emphasis on player freedom. The faction you choose to side with in Greedfall has a significant impact on the story’s outcome. It’s well worth playing through more than once because there are multiple satisfying outcomes to be found.

Although Greedfall’s fighting is mainly about grappling and grappling, the action is intriguing and will keep you interested. For those seeking for a good story, this is the one to watch.

Destiny 2

Developer: Bungie

Despite the fact that Destiny 2 is a live-service shooter that doesn’t appear to have much in common with Mass Effect, the similarities between the two games are undeniable. Both games include a rewarding growth system that heavily leans on RPG concepts and allows you to construct the character you like. both games share this feature.

Destiny 2: The Witch Queen review | PC Gamer

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And of course, Destiny 2 allows you to explore various unique planets – each with numerous resources to uncover. While the story of the first Destiny was panned, the sequel had a considerably more positive reception. It’s nowhere near as compelling as Mass Effect, but it’s enjoyable enough to warrant a playthrough, for sure.

Deus Ex: Human Revolution

There are a slew of planets to visit in Destiny 2, all of which have their own unique resources to discover. While the story of the first Destiny was panned, the sequel had a considerably more positive reception. It’s nowhere near as compelling as Mass Effect, but it’s enjoyable enough to warrant a playthrough, for sure.

Of course, Destiny 2 lets you explore a slew of different worlds, each of which contains a slew of hidden treasures. While the story of the first Destiny was panned, the sequel had a considerably more positive reception. It’s nowhere near as engrossing as Mass Effect, but it’s fun enough to warrant a replay, for sure.

This is all in addition to the fact that Destiny 2 lets you explore a wide variety of different planets, each with its own unique set of resources to be discovered. This sequel received significantly better reviews than the first one, which was panned for its plot. If you enjoy action-adventure games like Mass Effect, you’ll appreciate this, too.

Assassin’s Creed Odyssey

Developer: Ubisoft

The RPG mechanics in the following Assassin’s Creed games were bolstered, giving you more control over your character’s development. Like in Mass Effect, there are many ways to play and many weapons at your disposal. For the second time, Assassin’s Creed Odyssey actually feels like an RPG, making it one of the best games in the franchise (after Origins).

Mass Effect-style objectives and side missions are all part of the package, as is an extensive array of equipment and even dialogue options! Despite the fact that this game’s dialogue options aren’t as powerful as Mass Effect’s, they’re still a good choice if you’ve already finished Shepard’s story.

The Division 2

Developer: Ubisoft

The cover-based shooting in some of the later Mass Effect games isn’t given enough respect. If that’s one of your favorite aspects of Mass Effect, you may enjoy The Division 2 as well.’ While the settings and aesthetics may differ, the cover-based shooting mechanics in both games are incredibly gratifying. When it comes to gameplay, The Division 2 is more like Destiny 2, while Mass Effect is more of a single-player experience.

The Division 2’s RPG systems, like Mass Effect’s, allow you to customize your character in a variety of ways. When it comes to gameplay mechanics, The Division 2 is an enjoyable experience, especially when played with a group of friends, but the characters are not as memorable as they were in Mass Effect 3.

Warframe

Initiator and Creator of the Game:

Mass Effect’s strongest aspects, including as third-person shooting, exploration, and a rich advancement system, are all present in Warframe. The RPG features that allow you to enhance your character in this game are similar of Mass Effect, although the game is more centered on cooperative play.

In terms of visual aesthetics, it’s a lot like Mass Effect, with separate worlds. However, Warframe’s focus on fighting and action doesn’t make it any less enjoyable. The best part is that you have nothing to lose by giving Warframe a shot.

The Outer Worlds

Obsidian Entertainment is the developer.

The Outer Worlds has a lot in common with a lot of popular properties, but Mass Effect is one of the most obvious examples. The Outer Wilds, in particular, takes you to a broad variety of worlds, where you’ll meet a variety of characters with a variety of personalities. Because this game, like Mass Effect, is built around player decision-making, it’s likely that you’ll want to play it more than once.

Whether you’re looking for an action-packed adventure or a lighthearted comedy, this film has it all. The Outer Worlds does a great job of encouraging players to explore the world by hiding loads of useful items and resources all over the place. If you want more Mass Effect in your life, you can’t miss this one.

The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt (2015)

In terms of RPG aspects, this one may rival Mass Effect even if game doesn’t take place in outer space or the future. The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt is a massive, open-world RPG with a wealth of material and countless options to explore.

With foes becoming ever more difficult to defeat, the action aspect is far from toned down, providing a terrific challenge for enthusiasts. Additionally, there is a fascinating narrative that keeps the player engaged from start to finish.

Final Fantasy XV (2016)

Final Fantasy XV is a must-have for those who enjoy role-playing games more than action games. Combat in this game is anything but easy and can be downright irritating at times. However, the game compensates for this by allowing players to explore.

FINAL FANTASY 15 Gameplay Full Demo (E3 2016) Final Fantasy XV - YouTube

The player’s options can move the story in a completely new direction. Additionally, the game’s variety of new places keeps interest high. In fact, the beautiful atmosphere and cutting-edge technology are seamlessly intertwined.

BioShock Infinite (2013)

This is a first-person shooter instead of a third-person RPG. Despite this, BioShock Infinite manages to preserve much of the RPG’s thematic appeal. It accomplishes this by presenting the player with vital options at critical points in the game. Even seemingly insignificant choices might have a significant impact on the story’s outcome.

When it comes to BioShock Infinite, its limited world size is used to convey significance. Players are asked to ponder between violence and pacifism during the gameplay. It’s impossible not to become caught up in the game’s fascinating setting as well.

Borderlands 3 (2019)

A new first-person shooter that resembles RPGs like Mass Effect has been released. In Borderlands 3, additional people can join in on the fun, making it a cooperative effort. In RPGs, the oddball non-player characters are the ones who dish out the tasks. Borderlands 3 contains a slew of eccentric characters, like do the rest of the games in the series.

While taking out monsters is a lot of fun, players wishing for more variety will appreciate the opportunity to improve their character’s skill tree while gathering stuff and weapons. Players can experience Borderlands 3 in a variety of ways depending on their own preferences.

Star Wars: Knights Of The Old Republic (2003)

In the years before Mass Effect popularized space-based games, it was Star Wars that laid the groundwork. If you’re a fan of role-playing games, Knights of the Old Republic is for you. It takes the player on a galactic journey that includes all of the galaxy’s distinct elements.

By starting from a variety of distinct character classes, players may work their way up through the ranks and make a conscious decision about joining the good or evil side of the Force. The game combines elements of the genre’s typical gameplay with the high-octane action of Star Wars.

Deus Ex: Mankind Divided (2016)

Since its inception, the Deus Ex series has been regarded as a watershed moment in the history of video games. Despite the game’s occasional stutters, Mankind Divided is a worthy addition to the series. It’s as if the players have arrived in Prague itself, thanks to the game’s first-person narrative.

Hundreds of side tasks and NPC missions are supplemented by a concentration on stealth. RPG-style action is balanced out with sections where the player is forced to avoid enemy encounters. In addition to the many customization options, the XP gained from completing quests keeps the economy of the player alive.

Dead Space (2008)

Dead Space, a game set in outer space, ushered in a new era of space action games. The action takes place in the far future, much like in Mass Effect. Only a few of space games at the time of Dead Space’s release were horror-oriented, including titles like Half-Life.

As a result, gamers don’t know what to expect and how dangerous the situation is going to be. Since enemies can appear at any time in real-time, the action never gets boring. Dead Space is a breath of fresh air after so many galactic-based games.

Jade Empire (2005)

Jade Empire appears to have a more refined setting to explore than most other RPGs. Real-time combat means there are no shortcuts in this Bioware game, and players must master the combat system.

Along with traveling the globe, learning about other cultures and cultivating one’s chi are essential for advancement. A system of morality may not have been the first in gaming, but it had the greatest impact since the decisions made by players form their characters and the adversaries they face.

The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim (2011)

Because of the many memes that poke fun at the series, its popularity has remained strong over the years. However, The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim is still an enjoyable experience. Players have complete creative control, and that’s what draws people in (to the point where the story becomes secondary).

Since there are so many characters to meet and side objectives to do, Skyrim has an evergreen quality with apparently limitless role-playing features. Influence was so great that the game became a model for future RPGs to follow in its wake.

Dragon Age: Inquisition (2014)

For those who have played Mass Effect, Dragon Age is a sort of alternative universe to that universe. This RPG, like many others, places a heavy emphasis on character development through exploration, combat, and the acquisition of companions.

The epic quality of the game’s presentation is what most people will find special here. 2014’s Game of the Year award went to the game’s level design and story. Mass Effect-style hooks like this one encourage players to keep going. Fans of the series can use Dragon Age Keep to keep track of their decisions from prior games.

Hades (2020)

In 2020, Supergiant Games released their Greek-themed hack and slash game. Fan reaction to this new version of the game, which has been in Early Access for a while, has been overwhelmingly positive. In addition to the stunning visuals, the battle is fast-paced, addictive, and casual.

It’s because of the story and romantic choices that Mass Effect aficionados will enjoy Hades. In spite of the vastly diverse backdrop, players will fall in love with Nyx and Athena, as well as characters like Achilles and the Fates, thanks to their unique interpretations of Greek and Chthonic deities. In addition, the dog can be petted by the players.

No Man’s Sky (2016)

Since its inception, this game has experienced a number of significant setbacks. The game is in excellent form thanks to the long-term maintenance of the developers. No Man’s Sky is both soothing and engrossing, and it manages to convey that sense of surprise and awe that is all too rare these days. Battles are well-balanced; the ship options are excellent; and Hello Games keeps improving the gameplay.

No Man's Sky reviews: is this the most divisive game of 2016? | VG247

With new and veteran fans alike, everyone agrees that exploring the cosmos with a group of pals is a great way to spend time. Although it lacks the narrative depth of the Mass Effect games, it nonetheless fulfills the player’s desire to explore a huge and diverse cosmos.

Prey (2017)

System Shock’s spiritual successor, this game bears a striking resemblance to a game released in 2006. The player assumes the role of Morgan Yu, a survivor of a starship that appears to have gone haywire.

Prey replicates the eerieness of the Cerberus labs from the first Mass Effect game, which may bring up memories for fans of the series. Or the mild frights they experienced when trudging through the spooky Collector headquarters. Or any combination of the two. Similar to how Shepard is played, users can choose between playing as either one of two genders in this game.

Tom Clancy’s The Division 2 (2019)

In comparison to The Division 2, the initial game has been called a success. In spite of it, many people consider it the best co-op shooter. In addition, the game’s unique Snowdrop engine produces stunning graphics.

It’s a third-person shooter with a cover mechanism reminiscent of that found in Mass Effect titles. A strong emphasis on abilities and teamwork is also evident in the gunplay, which is well-balanced. September brought a new mode, as well as a major update for next-generation consoles.

Outer Worlds (2019 – 2020)

A new “what if corporations ruled everything” sci-fi story from Obsidian Entertainment takes another look at the question. Contrary to Borderlands, this game’s monsters are more varied, the story is more complex, and the humor is actually better.

The Outer Worlds is a place where decisions have repercussions, and Mass Effect aficionados will appreciate this. In addition, the weapons in this game are a lot of fun. The game does not, however, include any possibilities for romantic relationships of any kind. However, companions still have their own objectives.

FAQS:

Is Dragon Age as good as Mass Effect?

A New Hope for a New World

Will there be a 5th Mass Effect game?

A new, unnamed Mass Effect is currently being developed by BioWare, and it will be referred to as Mass Effect 5 from here on out because it is the fifth mainline game in the series. Mass Effect 3 and Mass Effect: Andromeda appear to be direct sequels to the planned RPG.

Will there ever be another game like Mass Effect?

According to the newest speculations, Mass Effect 5 development is expected to begin in 2023, although BioWare is still keeping a lot of the future of the space-faring game under wraps.

Conclusion:

So, there you have it! Our top picks for the finest Mass Effect-like games! Obviously, there are a lot of amazing games out there that could be compared to BioWare’s masterpiece in some way, but this list will only grow as time goes on.

In the meantime, Mass Effect fans will be thrilled to learn that a remaster of the original trilogy, Mass Effect: Legendary Edition, is on its way. You can learn more about it by clicking the link at the top of this guide.