Planet & System Database
Mass Effect 3 features a vast galaxy filled with numerous star systems and planets, each with its own unique characteristics, resources, and potential points of interest. The Planet & System Database serves as a comprehensive reference, detailing the locations, inhabitants, and strategic importance of these celestial bodies, aiding in exploration and mission planning.
The galaxy map is divided into various clusters, and each cluster contains multiple star systems. Within these systems lie planets and moons, many of which can be scanned for resources or visited for specific missions. Understanding the layout of these systems is crucial for efficient travel and resource gathering.
Each planet often has specific attributes, such as its atmosphere, gravity, and the presence of valuable resources like Fuel, Tech, or Rare Elements. Some planets might be home to specific alien species, host unique anomalies, or be the site of critical story missions. For instance, Palaven is the Turian homeworld, while Thessia is the Asari homeworld.
Key Information Found in the Database:
- System Name: The designation of the star system (e.g., Apex System, Hades Gamma).
- Planet/Moon Names: Individual celestial bodies within a system (e.g., Tuchanka, Sur'Kesh).
- Resource Availability: Indicates the types and quantities of resources that can be mined from a planet.
- Points of Interest: Highlights locations of potential missions, anomalies, or hidden caches.
- Inhabitants/Factions: Notes if a planet is home to a specific alien race or faction.
- Strategic Importance: Details any role a planet or system plays in the Reaper war effort or galactic politics.
Utilizing this database, whether through in-game codex entries or external guides, allows players to make informed decisions about where to explore, which planets to scan for resources, and which systems hold the most strategic value. This knowledge is instrumental in maximizing your War Assets and preparing for the endgame.
For example, knowing that a particular system is rich in Rare Elements might prompt you to prioritize scanning its planets to acquire the necessary materials for crucial upgrades. Conversely, understanding that a planet is a key strategic location for an enemy faction might indicate a high-priority mission target.