Believe the hype
PROS:
1. The universe- Bioware has successfully created a universe to explore, with believable and interesting aliens and locals that brim with personality. The lore involved is unparalleled in Science fiction, save for Star Wars. The atmosphere is diverse for most of the places to land and there is plenty to take in for those who love a complete story.
2. Graphics-Amazing. Character models are as realistic as any RPG (or any other game, for that matter). The textures are flawlessly done; lighting is spot-on; The environments are beautiful to look at, whether its a hi-tech city or a forgotten jungle.
3. Story-fans of ME1 will not be disappointed by the continuation. You feel like a commander of a ship, an unstoppable force trying to put an end to an extinction-level threat. The romances are well done, each side character has personality and an interesting story that ties into the game, and as mentioned, the history of each race makes every interaction with an NPC have more meaning. Being allowed to continue to explore the universe after you've saved it is a great incentive.
4. Gameplay- If Mass Effect were just an over-the-shoulder shooter with no RPG/exploration elements, it would still be a solid game. Dialogue options and choices have impact, and you feel as if you are getting stronger from one mission to the next. The biotic powers are ramped up from the first game and well executed.
CONS:
1. The game gives the player some tactical control over companions, but not as much as one would like. I frequently gave commands to my squad mates, only to see them turn Rambo and run in to get themselves killed. Tighter movement mechanics are needed for ME3....the cover system works most of the time, but there are times when it doesn't work when you really need it to.
2. Mining is fun....for the first 40 planets. Then it becomes tedious and repetitive. You could simply decide not to do it, but it is necessary to improve your skills. There are simply too many "dead" planets.
3. Pacing- At times it feels as though there is no buildup, the game starts off epic from the very beginning...though perhaps this is because it is a sequel and the buildup was flawlessly done in the first game.