New Player Help

Your First Steps in Mass Effect 3

Welcome to Mass Effect 3! As Commander Shepard, you're tasked with uniting a fractured galaxy against the existential threat of the Reapers. This guide is designed to help new players get acquainted with the game's core mechanics, combat systems, and narrative progression. Whether you're new to the series or returning after a break, understanding the fundamentals will ensure a smoother and more enjoyable journey through this epic conclusion.

We'll cover essential information such as combat basics, power usage, squad management, and the importance of War Assets. By familiarizing yourself with these elements, you'll be well-equipped to face the challenges ahead and lead the galaxy to victory. Prepare yourself for a thrilling adventure where every decision matters.

Getting Started: Controls and Movement

Mass Effect 3 features a robust third-person shooter control scheme. Familiarize yourself with the basic movement and combat controls:

• Movement: Use the left analog stick (or WASD keys) to move Shepard.
• Camera: Use the right analog stick (or mouse) to control the camera.
• Aiming: Press the aim button (LT/L2 or right mouse button) to aim your weapon.
• Firing: Press the fire button (RT/R2 or left mouse button) to shoot.
• Cover System: Press the cover button (A/X or Spacebar) to snap to cover.
• Powers: Use the face buttons (or number keys) to activate Shepard's biotic and tech powers.

Combat Fundamentals

Combat in Mass Effect 3 is a dynamic blend of shooting and power usage. Key elements include:

• Weapon Proficiency: Shepard can wield various weapon types, each with its own strengths and weaknesses.
• Power Cooldowns: Biotic and tech powers have cooldown periods after use. Managing these is crucial for sustained offense and defense.
• Squad Commands: You can issue commands to your squadmates, directing them to attack specific targets or use their abilities.
• Enemy Types: Be aware of different enemy types (e.g., Husks, Cannibals, Geth, Cerberus) and their unique attack patterns and resistances.

Understanding Powers and Combos

Shepard's powers are essential for overcoming tougher enemies and controlling the battlefield. Biotic and Tech powers can be combined to create devastating combos:

• Biotic Combos: Typically involve priming an enemy with a biotic power (like Warp) and then detonating it with another (like Throw or Shockwave).
• Tech Combos: Often involve priming with a tech power (like Incinerate) and detonating with another tech or biotic power.

Squad Management

Your squadmates are invaluable allies. Choose them wisely based on the mission and enemy types.

• Squad Selection: Before missions, select two squadmates whose abilities complement Shepard's.
• Squad Commands: Direct your squadmates to focus fire, use specific powers, or move to tactical positions.
• Squadmate Loyalty: Completing loyalty missions for your squadmates can unlock powerful bonuses and ensure their survival.

War Assets and Galactic Readiness

A central mechanic in Mass Effect 3 is the accumulation of War Assets. These represent the combined military strength of the galaxy, which directly influences your Galactic Readiness score. A higher readiness score increases your chances of achieving a favorable ending.

• Acquiring War Assets: War Assets are gained through completing main story missions, side quests, recruiting new allies, and making critical dialogue choices.
• Galactic Readiness: This score, visible on the Galaxy Map, determines the effectiveness of your combined forces against the Reapers.

Dialogue and Morality

Dialogue choices play a significant role in shaping the narrative and your relationships with characters. Paragon (blue) choices generally lead to more diplomatic and heroic outcomes, while Renegade (red) choices are more aggressive and pragmatic.

By understanding these core elements, new You can confidently embark on their Mass Effect 3 adventure, ready to face the Reapers and save the galaxy.