Pixels to paper - 10 videogame novels reviewed

Mass Effect: Revelation

'Staff Lieutenant David Anderson, executive officer on the SSV Hastings, rolled out of his bunk at the first sound of the alarm. His body moved instinctively, conditioned by years of active service aboard Systems Alliance Space Vessels. By the time his feet hit the floor he was already awake and alert, his mind evaluating the situation.
The alarm rang again, echoing off the hull to rebound throughout the ship. Two short blasts. repeating over and over. A general call to stations. At least they weren't under immediate attack.'
(Taken from published copy)

What is it?
A prequel to the events of Mass Effect, Revelation covers humanity's first encounters with aliens, as David Anderson searches for a lost scientist, flees an assassin and tries to uncover a deep galactic conspiracy.

Who wrote it?
Drew Karpyshyn, game designer with Bioware, who also acted as lead writer for Mass Effect on Xbox 360.

Fanboy factor?
Mass Effect's universe is giant, and, with just one game out there, largely unexplored. Revelation delves into humanity's space-conquering advancements andits new political and social structure. Also, there's lots of shooting things and spectacular alien technology/killing techniques to be admired. Bonza.

Is it any good?
Far better than any other novel in our list, which is quite probably down to Karpyshyn's direct involvement with the actual game. Instead of filling out a pre-prepared plot in a pre-prepared universe, Karpyshyn is exploring a galaxy he helped to create and populate, and his own interest and passion is clear from the pacy and engaging action. That said, the dialogue is typical dreary genre stuff, and the characters are your sci-fi regulars -gruff butthoughtfulmen and strong but passionate women.

Further reading
As yet, there's just the one Mass Effect novel. But you can bet there'll be a few in the pipeline, what with the game's huge scope.