Mass Effect 3
Mass Effect 3

Materials

See the full list of materials in Mass Effect 3. This reference details how to find and use items like Tritium and other elements for weapon and armor upgrades.

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Materials in Mass Effect 3

While Mass Effect 3 focuses heavily on weapons, armor, and powers, the game also incorporates a system for collecting and utilizing various materials. These materials are primarily used for weapon and armor upgrades, allowing you to customize your gear to better suit your playstyle and the challenges ahead.

Types of Materials

The primary materials you'll encounter and use for upgrades are:

  • Weapon Materials: These are used to upgrade your firearms. Common types include Titanium, Tungsten, and Tritanium. Each material type might offer different upgrade bonuses or be required for specific tiers of upgrades.
  • Armor Materials: These are used to enhance your armor's protective capabilities. Common types include Carbon, Kevlar, and Polymer.

Where to Find Materials

Materials are scattered throughout the game world and can be acquired through several means:

  • Scavenging: The most common method is by looting containers, fallen enemies, and environmental caches. Keep an eye out for glowing objects and interact prompts.
  • Scanning Planets: In the Galaxy Map, you can scan planets for resources. This is particularly useful for acquiring rarer materials needed for higher-tier upgrades. Be cautious, as scanning can sometimes attract unwanted attention from Reaper patrols.
  • Purchasing: Certain vendors on the Citadel and other hubs will sell materials. This is a convenient way to stock up, especially if you're short on a specific material.
  • Mission Rewards: Some missions and side quests may reward you with materials upon completion.

Using Materials for Upgrades

Materials are consumed when you upgrade your weapons and armor at workbenches found on the Normandy or in various hubs. The upgrade system allows you to enhance:

  • Weapon Upgrades: Increase damage, accuracy, stability, magazine size, or add special effects like armor-piercing or incendiary rounds.
  • Armor Upgrades: Boost shields, health, power recharge speed, or weapon damage.

Upgrade Tiers

Weapons and armor have multiple upgrade tiers. Higher tiers require rarer materials and provide more significant stat boosts. You'll typically find basic materials early in the game, with more advanced ones becoming available as you progress and explore further.

Strategic Material Management

It's wise to manage your materials strategically. Don't waste rare materials on low-tier upgrades. Prioritize upgrading weapons and armor that you frequently use or that complement your class's abilities. Regularly check your inventory and the upgrade benches to see what materials you need and where you can acquire them.

While not as flashy as new powers or weapons, materials are the backbone of your equipment progression in Mass Effect 3. Efficiently gathering and utilizing them will ensure your gear remains effective throughout your fight against the Reapers.