Almost no one expected Mass Effect 3’s multiplayer to be as big or as well received as it was. Originally thought to be a throwaway addition, the mode quickly built a dedicated audience of players thanks to its fast and fun co-op gameplay. The mode is back with Mass Effect: Andromeda multiplayer, presenting a much improved take on the fan-favorite game mode. We’ve detailed the release right here, including our own impressions from PAX East 2017, but wanted to point out something from the gameplay video. Mass Effect: Andromeda will launch with five maps and 25 characters to choose from.
The maps are: Firebase Sandstorm, Firebase Zero, Firebase Icebreaker, Firebase Magma, and Firebase Derelict. At PAX East, Bioware was showing off the Sandstorm map, which was small but benefited greatly from the increased verticality offered by Andromeda’s new jumping and boost mechanics. Cover was scattered about, allowing players to utilize it whenever necessary, which was quick and easy thanks to the new cover system that puts you into cover without even pressing a single button.
The other maps look like unique variations on the Mass Effect multiplayer formula, with different environments creating different landscapes of play. Just these five seem like they’ll offer a lot of variety to the game, but expect more to come via free DLC in the future.
As far as the characters, the game will launch with 25 different character kits that you can choose from. These combine races with character types to create different combinations of abilities. Weapons can be shared between classes, so no worries if you want a more soldier oriented class with a sniper rifle. More characters will also be added later via DLC, but with 25 to try out, you’ll have a lot to do before that ever happens.
Mass Effect: Andromeda hits PS4, Xbox One, and PC on March 21st.
