Mass Effect 2 provides a sequel that may disappoint in story, but makes up for it with an immersive universe.
In Mass Effect 2, numerous improvements and changes make the series even more fun and exciting to play.
I'm going to be honest with you, I wasn't too happy with every single thing they introduced or changed. For example:
- The reworked class/power system simplifies the RPG elements to an extent where it is not half the RPG it used to be (not good in my humble opinion).
- The combat is improved with better shooting, but too many shooter elements were introduced to the combat which essentially turned ME 2 into a run and gun with super-powers. (Quick health regeneration, essentially unlimited ammo with no diverse ammo pickups, shepard can use every weapon unlike previous games).
And... The story.
Before I go into a rant about the story let me just say that I still love Mass Effect's story (in general).
One problem I had with the story was that the premise and trailer that Bioware gave ME 2 hyped up the story so much that it was disappointing. From day one you know who you're going to fight and where you're going. There is barely any build-up for what is going on. In the first Mass Effect there were the geth killing people and no one knew what the hell was going on. This time, you're told exactly what is going on and what you're going to do. For me that was just a horrible way to start the plot off. Plus, Shepard's been dead for two years and you'd expect his former teammates to shout "WTF?!" when they see him. But former teammates were a huge huge letdown in this sequel, they barely play any role and Bioware truly did not put much effort into including them in the new story. One good thing about the plot is that your teammates make the game. The stories of your teammates are so interesting that you would rather just play an entire story about each individual than stop the Collectors.
A few minor glitches and some awkward cover movement (though it is greatly improved) make for some painful visuals, but nonetheless the graphics are still beautiful.
Planet exploring is just as tedious and boring as ever, but Mass Effect 2 makes up for it with its great combat.
Overall: Mass Effect 2 greatly improved on the combat/action part of the game but sacrificed RPG elements and a storyline that could have been amazing. The good thing about the storyline however, is that is pure buildup for ME 3. Which hopefully will be amazing.