As BioWare advances the development of the next major installments in the Mass Effect and Dragon Age series, it faces the pivotal task of evaluating the strengths and weaknesses of both franchises. To distinguish itself from the shadow of the original trilogy and the repercussions of Mass Effect: Andromeda, Mass Effect 4 could draw inspiration from Dragon Age's character creation, enabling players to move beyond the confines of human protagonists.
BioWare appears to be on the path to reclaiming its stature in the gaming industry during the 2020s. Following the mixed reception of Mass Effect: Andromeda and Anthem, the success of its two upcoming titles may determine the studio's resurgence. The recent launch of Mass Effect: Legendary Edition highlighted BioWare's proficiency in choice-based storytelling, rich lore, and the creation of compelling characters. However, similar to the juncture of Andromeda's release, the new entry in the series must make astute decisions about adaptation, elimination, and preservation of the original trilogy's winning elements while embracing contemporary sensibilities.
A New Beginning for BioWare, Diverse Character Creation
One bold direction for the next Mass Effect could involve liberating players from the confinement of human protagonists. With 15 years of established lore and a variety of alien races endearing to players throughout Shepherd's journey, allowing players to designate their lead character as a Turian, Quarian, Salarian, or others could attract players disheartened by Andromeda back to the franchise.
The option to play as a different race presents BioWare with an opportunity to enhance the depth and replayability of Mass Effect 4, with varying impacts on the player's journey. This choice in character creation could be as trivial as selecting a hairstyle or significantly influence the unfolding of the plot, offering unique dialogues, quest lines, objectives, and loot based on the chosen race. Certain classes could be exclusive to specific races, aligned with the lore, such as a biotic-focused Asari or a formidable Krogan.
Building on Existing Framework from Dragon Age
Dragon Age: Inquisition primarily focused on cosmetic differences concerning race. While the overall narrative remained largely unaffected by the player's race choice, BioWare introduced some immersive elements, including race-specific dialog options, varied NPC reactions, and exclusive War Table missions. This system could seamlessly transition to Mass Effect, potentially evolving into a more robust and comprehensive feature.
The Next Mass Effect Must Innovate
While some Mass Effect enthusiasts may hope for a conservative approach in the upcoming installment, merely returning to normalcy after Andromeda's setbacks would not be sufficient. As the gaming landscape evolves and other studios successfully emulate and innovate on BioWare's formula, the studio must take risks with its forthcoming titles. Both Dragon Age: Dreadwolf and Mass Effect 4, no longer able to rely solely on their heritage, will need more than a fresh appearance to regain their position in the gaming industry.
A Long-Awaited Evolution
It may be as late as 2029 before Mass Effect 4 is unveiled. In a rapidly evolving medium where advancements occur swiftly and trends fade rapidly, one enduring fan desire is for increased agency. The original Mass Effect trilogy excelled in personalizing the hero's journey based on the player's decisions. Introducing a significant story pivot at the game's onset, such as choosing the protagonist's race, feels like a natural evolution of Mass Effect's style, drawing inspiration from Dragon Age: Inquisition.