Mass Effect Legendary Edition: Top 5 Tips for First-Time Commanders

With the release of Mass Effect Legendary Edition, fans new and old are getting ready to hop aboard the Normandy and experience the galaxy in stunning 4K resolution.

Are you a new soldier joining the ranks of the Alliance? Or are you a veteran Spectre looking to get the jump on things before rushing back into battle? Either way, this is the list for you. We've compiled the top five best tips for players ready to take the reins of Commander Shepard and the Normandy crew.

Top 5 Tips for First-Time Commanders

1. Max Out Your Charm/Intimidate

Speech is one of the best ways to get through confrontations smoothly. Additionally, well-spoken Shepards may find themselves stumbling into extra content, reducing their legwork, or earning the trust of multiple parties in one fell swoop. Having a decent Charm or Intimidation skill level can also unlock exclusive dialogue with important characters and you won't want to miss.

2. Lean Into Your Spec

Be sure to read through your class choice carefully before selecting. Once you've done so, really dig into its abilities. Flesh out your bionic powers as a vanguard or unlock advanced encryptions as an engineer. Pay close attention to your armor weight and recommended weapons—despite being able to use them all. Your specialization will likely end up as a cornerstone of your build as each one has a specific set of bonuses.

3. Talk to Everyone

Thanks to a bit of content remixing, all the DLC content is now spread organically throughout the game instead of just being ready the moment you strap on your space boots. This means that you'll want to talk to everyone you can to unlock the most content and resolve as many issues as possible. Not only will this net you some neat rewards and exciting stories, but it will also double as part of your success in the final game. Leave no corner unseen.

4. Squadmates are Key

Squadmates are a big part of Mass Effect—especially in the second game. Don't forget to spend time with them either through dialogue or in their Squad settings/equipment menu. A well-built team works through content much better together than a strong Shepard and a pair of random picks. These characters are here to help you—and they're surprisingly good at it, too. Take advantage.

5. Watch for the System Shift

Between games, that is. Mass Effect 1 features a different weapon and combat system than the next two installments—which this release honors in order to keep things true to form. In the first game, weapons will rely on an overheating feature with no reload function rather than traditional ammunition. This shifts in the second and third games to fall more in line with traditional shooters by offering thermal heat clips and the ability to reload their weapons.

Don't forget that every choice you make will impact the fate of the galaxy as we know it. Stick out the consequences as best you can. Good luck, Commander.