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Games like Mass Effect can offer up engrossing experiences, with strong character progression, dialogue choices, and sometimes a dash of romance. BioWare's beloved series has long been counted among some the best space games out there, with the original trilogy also being home to some the best game stories.
If you find yourself searching for something similar to dive into, then some of the best RPGs around are well worth considering - even if some aren't set in space. Whether you're looking for more adventures with memorable characters, you want to get stuck into more action, or you're looking to explore, there's plenty out there for you.
10. Starfield
Developer: Bethesda
Platform(s): PC, Xbox Series X/S
If you're looking for more space-faring adventures, Bethesda's sprawling, galaxy-spanning RPG could just be the ticket. As a member of the Constellation, you set out in search of answers, but outside of the core story, there are lots of worlds to explore. Those who enjoy venturing to alien worlds with companions at your side will also be happy to know that you can also take to the stars with some company. With a host of different followers to get to know and bring along with you, there's also the chance for some romance if you want to develop a relationship with them - although it's not as in depth as Mass Effect in that regard.
Plus, if you adored being aboard the Normandy and having a place to call your own in space, Starfield allows you to buy new ships that you can alter to your liking, or even build your own from scratch with its ship builder mechanics. It's not as linear as the later Mass Effect games, of course, but there's plenty here that might speak to you if you're looking to dive into another adventure in space. And with the Starfield Shattered Space expansion and a slate of updates, now's a great time to consider giving it a go.
For more, check out our Starfield review.
9. Prey
Developer: Arkane Studios
Available on: PC, PS4, Xbox One
One of the sleeper hits of the PS4/Xbox One generation was Prey, a game that has a die-hard community of loyal fans, just like Mass Effect. Prey is interesting because it has a dynamic world that encourages exploration and experimentation with its mechanics. And, much like Mass Effect, Prey features numerous choice-driven scenarios that impact the outcome of the game.
Once again, the story in Prey is excellent, with certain story beats that rival even some of the best films out there. It’s a moody, creepy, space game that will likely make you think. Prey is certainly a lot darker and scarier than Mass Effect, but if you’re looking for something unique, while borrowing some familiar mechanics from other space games, you should absolutely give it a try.
For more, check out our Prey review.
8. Fallout: New Vegas
Developer: Obsidian Entertainment
Available on: PC, PS4 (PS Now), Xbox One
While Fallout: New Vegas might not resemble Mass Effect in aesthetics, the two have a lot more in common than you might think. Fallout: New Vegas is arguably a more polished version of the acclaimed Fallout 3, with lots of branching paths, memorable characters, and quests to embark on. If you’re a fan of Mass Effect’s RPG elements, you’ll be right at home with Fallout: New Vegas.
This game allows you to build your character exactly how you'd like, with lots of opportunities for replayability. You won’t save the galaxy in Fallout: New Vegas, but it does offer an engaging story that will likely sink its teeth in you. It’s remarkable how well this game holds up, considering it's a decade old at this point.
See why it comes out on top in our ranking of the best Fallout games.
7. Greedfall
Developer: Spiders
Available on: PC, PS4, PS5, Xbox One, Xbox Series X/S
Much like other entries on this list, Greedfall is an action RPG that prioritizes player choice. In Greedfall, you're able to develop relationships with different factions, and the one you side with changes the outcome of the story. In fact, there are multiple endings that are both worth experiencing, so it's well worth playing through multiple times.
Greedfall differs from Mass Effect in that it focuses more on melee combat instead of shooting, but the action is compelling and will probably keep you engaged. Tying the whole thing together is a story that has its fair share of twists and turns - perfect for those looking for an interesting narrative.
6. Destiny 2
Developer: Bungie
Available on: PC, PS4, PS5, Xbox One, Xbox Series X/S
Sure, Destiny 2 is a live-service shooter that doesn’t seem to have a lot in common with Mass Effect, but after spending time with both series, the similarities are clear. One thing both share is a satisfying progression system, leaning hard into the RPG mechanics that let you create the character you want.
And of course, Destiny 2 allows you to explore various unique planets - each with numerous resources to uncover. While the original Destiny was criticized for its narrative, its sequel was much better received in this regard. It’s nowhere near as compelling as Mass Effect, but it's enjoyable enough to warrant a playthrough, for sure.
For more, check out our Destiny 2 Final Shape review.
5. Cyberpunk 2077
Developer: CD Projekt Red
Available on: PC, Xbox Series X/S, PS5
You may not be venturing through the stars and meeting (or maybe smooching) aliens that inhabit the universe, but Cyberpunk 2077 is a immersive RPG that you might very enjoy when you're ready to step away from Mass Effect. With the chance to create your own custom character in merc V, you'll get swept up in a memorable adventure across the Night City with a rocker by the name of Johnny Silverhand for company.
Not unlike Mass Effect, you'll meet a host of different characters in the world, and you can even form a romantic relationship with a handful of people you meet if you so wish. With plenty of role-play goodness in store, you can also shape your V to your perferred playstyle in combat and pick dialogue options that let you inject some personality and play to your strengths. With a slate of updates and the Phantom Liberty expansion, there's never been a better time to give it a go.
For more, check out our Cyberpunk 2077 Phantom Liberty review.
4. Assassin’s Creed Odyssey
Developer: Ubisoft
Available on: PC, PS4, Xbox One
The later Assassin's Creed games doubled down on the RPG systems, giving you more agency over how you build your character. Mass Effect has similar features in place, offering numerous ways to play, and a slew of weapons at your disposal. Assassin's Creed Odyssey is one of the best in the series and is the second entry to truly feel like an RPG (after Origins).
It's built similarly to Mass Effect, with quests, side-quests, optional romances, lots of different gear, and even includes dialogue options. The various dialogue selections might not be as impactful as they are in Mass Effect, but they function in a similar way - making this game a great alternative after you've finished Shepard's adventures.
For more, read our Assassin's Creed Odyssey review.
3. Baldur's Gate 3
Developer: Larian Studios
Platform(s): PC, Xbox Series X/S, PS5
While you won't be able to scratch your space or sci-fi itch with Larian's fantasy RPG, Baldur's Gate 3, has a lot of ingredients that may speak to you if you're a big fan of the Mass Effect series. Shepard's adventures deliver some of the best game stories around, along with strong character development and worldbuilding. Similarly, Baldur's Gate 3 also takes you through an engrossing story, which is yours to mold and shape with a host of choices and approaches at your disposal. And not entirely unlike the way to flesh out Shepard through the classes and military profile, you can also select from a myriad of classes, subclasses, and races for your lead protagonist in Larian's RPG.
Baldur's Gate 3 also features a cast of loveable characters you'll enjoy getting to know, and who will fight and journey alongside you as you head out in the Sword Coast. Just like Mass Effect, you also form romantic relationships if you want to, and each companion has their own story to tell. While the combat is quite different since it plays to D&D rules, and the choices can hinge on a dice roll, there's so much here that you're likely love if you enjoy BioWare's RPGs.
For more, read our Baldur's Gate 3 review.
2. Dragon Age: The Veilguard
Developer: BioWare
Platform(s): PC, Xbox Series X/S, PS5
BioWare's latest RPG, Dragon Age: The Veilguard, is a great option for anyone out there that's looking for more games like Mass Effect. Not only does it feature a lot of the same elements as the space-faring RPGs, but it also draws inspiration from Mass Effect 2 for its approach to some of its quests. In fact, there's a lot of similarities when it comes to overall structure, too. With a cast of companions you can get to know and romance, you set off to face ancient elven gods and go up against impossible odds together. Naturally that means there are some risks involved, not unlike the memorable suicide mission in ME 2.
And scaling back from the open-world approach of Dragon Age: Inquisition, The Veilguard spins a more linear story that takes you to different open-zone locations. As the same developer behind both RPG series, it's well worth checking out anyone of the Dragon Age games if you haven't already, but The Veilguard has a lot of ingredients that tap into the Mass Effect series strengths.
Read our Dragon Age: The Veilguard review for more.
1. The Outer Worlds
Developer: Obsidian Entertainment
Available on: PC, PS4, PS5, Xbox One, Xbox Series X/S, Nintendo Switch
The Outer Worlds shares similarities with many beloved franchises, but it’s hard to overlook how much it has in common with Mass Effect, specifically. Most notably, The Outer Wilds sends you to a slew of planets to meet various characters who have a wide range of personalities. Choice is at the heart of this game, much like Mass Effect, so you’ll have plenty of reasons to replay it multiple times.
It’s got a little bit of everything - action, a witty, lovable cast, and a story that you’ll likely fall in love with. One thing The Outer Worlds does fantastically is the way it encourages exploration, with tons of items and resources hidden around every nook and cranny. This is not one to skip if you have to have more Mass Effect in your life.
For more check out our The Outer Worlds review.
If you're a fan of BioWare, it could also be worth checking out games like Dragon Age.
