Mass Effect 2
Release: 2010
Platforms: Xbox 360 (compatible with Xbox One), PC, PS3
Much like Gears, the Mass Effect games have peaks and troughs. Entry number 1 featured solid role-playing elements but was light on quality action while entry number 3 fluffed its narrative and felt too much like a scripted shooter (with an awful final stretch devoted to mindless shooting). The midway point, Mass Effect 2, strikes a healthy balance.
Cleverly, the narrative is constructed in such a way that newcomers can get to grips with the story without having had to play the first one. You’re Shepherd, a space commander of the Normandy. As the game begins you’re being patched up by a mysterious corporation dubbed Cerberus led by a shadowy figure, the Illusive Man, who simply oozes reptilian charm.
With the release of Mass Effect: Andromeda next year, there’s no better time to get familiar with the Mass Effect universe. Completionists might want to start at the beginning, but if you can only buy one game this Christmas, Mass Effect 2 is a worthy entry in the series to curl up to.