The Mass Effect Series, In Order

The Mass Effect series is a critically acclaimed science fiction RPG franchise developed by BioWare, known for its deep storytelling, rich character development, and galaxy-spanning choices. Beginning with the original Mass Effect in 2007, the series primarily follows Commander Shepard’s battle to unite the galaxy against a legion of ancient machines known as the Reapers. As the trilogy unfolds, players’ decisions shape relationships, alliances, and the fate of entire civilizations. The saga later expanded with Mass Effect: Andromeda, a standalone entry set in a new galaxy with fresh characters and challenges. This guide explores the Mass Effect games and extended media in order, offering an overview of their interconnected narratives and evolving gameplay. The Mass Effect Games In Order Here is a list of the core Mass Effect entries in both production and chronological order of release. 1. Mass Effect Initial release2007DeveloperBioWarePlatform(s)– PC– Xbox 360– PlayStation 3 Mass Effect (2007) is the first entry in BioWare’s acclaimed sci-fi RPG trilogy, introducing players to Commander Shepard, a customizable hero tasked with stopping a rogue Spectre agent named Saren and uncovering a greater threat posed by an ancient race of machines called the Reapers. Set in a richly detailed galaxy filled with diverse alien civilizations, political intrigue, and branching dialogue choices, the game combines third-person shooter mechanics with deep RPG elements. Your choices shape alliances, morality, and key plot points, laying the foundation for a universe-spanning saga that continues across the trilogy. 2. Mass Effect 2 Initial release2010DeveloperBioWarePlatform(s)– PC– Xbox 360– PlayStation 3 Mass Effect 2 (2010) continues the story of Commander Shepard in a darker, more personal chapter of the trilogy. After a devastating attack leaves Shepard presumed dead, the mysterious pro-human organization Cerberus resurrects them to confront a new threat: the Collectors, an alien race abducting entire human colonies. With time running out, Shepard must recruit and earn the loyalty of a diverse team of specialists for a high-risk "suicide mission." Known for its polished combat, deeper character development, and emotionally charged storytelling, Mass Effect 2 is widely praised as one of the greatest sci-fi RPGs ever made. 3. Mass Effect 3 Initial release2012DeveloperBioWarePlatform(s)– PC– Xbox 360– PlayStation 3– Wii U Mass Effect 3 (2012) is the climactic finale of Commander Shepard’s journey, as the galaxy faces full-scale invasion by the Reapers—ancient, god-like machines bent on destroying all advanced civilizations. With Earth under siege, Shepard must unite alien races, make impossible decisions, and rally every available force to take a final stand. The game blends intense third-person combat with deeply emotional storytelling, culminating in choices that reflect years of player decisions across the trilogy. Mass Effect 3 delivers a powerful conclusion to the series, exploring sacrifice, unity, and the cost of survival on a galactic scale. 4. Mass Effect: Andromeda Initial release2017DeveloperBioWarePlatform(s)– PC– Xbox One– PlayStation 4 Mass Effect: Andromeda (2017) is a standalone entry in the Mass Effect universe, set 600 years after the original trilogy in the distant Andromeda galaxy. Players assume the role of Ryder—either Scott or Sara—a Pathfinder tasked with finding a new home for humanity and other Milky Way species. As they explore uncharted worlds, build alliances, and face off against a hostile alien force called the Kett, players must balance diplomacy, survival, and discovery. While it features expanded open-world gameplay and refined combat, Andromeda received mixed reception for its technical issues and narrative depth compared to the original trilogy. The Mass Effect Media In Order Here’s a chronological list of all main Mass Effect games and extended media—novels, comics, and other key content—based on in-universe events. This includes both the original trilogy and its expanded universe, as well as Mass Effect: Andromeda, which takes place much later. Before Mass Effect 1 Mass Effect: Evolution Initial releaseJanuary 2011Media typeComic seriesNo. of Issues4PublisherDark Horse Comics Mass Effect: Evolution (2011) explores the origins of the Illusive Man, the enigmatic and morally complex leader of Cerberus. Set during the First Contact War between humans and turians, the comic reveals how Jack Harper—a skilled and principled soldier—undergoes a transformation into the Illusive Man following exposure to Reaper technology. Mass Effect: Revelation Initial release2007Media typeNovelNo. of Pages323AuthorDrew Karpyshyn Mass Effect: Revelation (2007) is a prequel novel to the original Mass Effect game. The story follows Alliance officer David Anderson as he investigates a deadly attack on a secret research facility, uncovering a web of political intrigue and advanced alien technology. Along the way, he crosses paths with Saren Arterius, a ruthless turian Spectre who would later become the main antagonist of the first game. The novel offers deeper insight into the Mass Effect universe, including the early days of humanity’s expansion into space and the tensions between major galactic powers. Mass Effect: Incursion Initial release2010Media typeComic seriesNo. of Issues1AuthorMac Walters Mass Effect: Incursion (2010) serves as a prelude to Mass Effect 2. The story follows Aria T’Loak, the powerful and cunning ruler of the space station Omega, as she confronts a mysterious threat posed by the Collectors—enigmatic aliens responsible for the disappearance of human colonies. Through Aria’s eyes, the comic offers an early glimpse into the growing danger in the galaxy and highlights her strategic mind and brutal authority. Incursion sets the stage for the darker tone of Mass Effect 2 while expanding on one of the series' most iconic side characters. Mass Effect: Redemption Initial release2010Media typeComic seriesNo. of Issues4PublisherDark Horse Comics Mass Effect: Redemption (2010) takes place shortly before the events of Mass Effect 2. The story centers on Dr. Liara T’Soni as she races against time—and ruthless enemies—to recover Commander Shepard’s body after the Normandy's destruction. With the help of a drell assassin and facing off against the Shadow Broker and the Collectors, Liara navigates betrayal and danger to protect Shepard’s legacy. The comic fills in crucial story gaps between the first two games and deepens Liara’s character arc, leading directly into the Lair of the Shadow Broker DLC. Mass Effect: Inquisition Initial release2010Media typeComic seriesNo. of Issues4PublisherDark Horse Comics Mass Effect: Inquisition (2010) explores the growing influence of Cerberus in the lead-up to Mass Effect 2. The story follows Captain Armando-Owen Bailey, a no-nonsense C-Sec officer on the Citadel, as he investigates a mysterious case involving a missing person and potential Cerberus involvement. As Bailey digs deeper, he confronts the ethical gray areas of law enforcement in a galaxy filled with corruption and secret agendas. Inquisition provides a grounded, street-level perspective on the Mass Effect universe and offers greater insight into a key supporting character introduced in the second game. Mass Effect 1 Era Mass Effect Initial release2007DeveloperBioWarePlatform(s)– PC– Xbox 360– PlayStation 3 Mass Effect (2007) is the first entry in BioWare’s acclaimed sci-fi RPG trilogy, introducing players to Commander Shepard, a customizable hero tasked with stopping a rogue Spectre agent named Saren and uncovering a greater threat posed by an ancient race of machines called the Reapers. Set in a richly detailed galaxy filled with diverse alien civilizations, political intrigue, and branching dialogue choices, the game combines third-person shooter mechanics with deep RPG elements. Your choices shape alliances, morality, and key plot points, laying the foundation for a universe-spanning saga that continues across the trilogy. Between Mass Effect 1 & 2 Mass Effect: Ascension Initial release2008Media typeNovelNo. of Pages342AuthorDrew Karpyshyn Mass Effect: Ascension (2008) that takes place shortly after the events of the first Mass Effect game. The story focuses on the Ascension Project, a top-secret Alliance initiative aimed at helping biotically gifted children, particularly those affected by the controversial drug Element Zero. At the center is Gillian Grayson, a powerful young biotic with autism, who becomes a target of the pro-human organization Cerberus. As her adoptive father struggles to protect her, the novel delves into themes of ethics, manipulation, and the growing shadow of Cerberus in the galaxy. It deepens the lore and sets up important narrative threads for Mass Effect 2. Mass Effect: He Who Laughs Best Initial release2013Media typeComicNo. of Issues1PublisherDark Horse Comics Mass Effect: He Who Laughs Best (2013) serves as a backstory for Jeff "Joker" Moreau, the Normandy’s skilled and wisecracking pilot. The comic reveals Joker’s early days in the Alliance, showcasing his struggle to prove himself despite suffering from Vrolik Syndrome, a brittle bone condition. Through determination, exceptional flying skills, and a sharp wit, he overcomes skepticism from his superiors and earns a place at the helm of the most advanced ship in the fleet. This brief tale highlights Joker's resilience and adds emotional depth to one of the series' most beloved characters. Mass Effect Galaxy Initial release2009Media typeMobile gameDeveloperBioWarePlatform(s)- iOS Mass Effect Galaxy (2009) serves as a prequel to Mass Effect 2. The story follows Jacob Taylor, a former Alliance soldier who becomes entangled in a plot involving a terrorist group targeting humanity. With the help of Miranda Lawson, Jacob works to stop the threat and protect galactic stability. While the gameplay features top-down action and simplified mechanics, Galaxy is notable for introducing key characters who later become squadmates in Mass Effect 2. Though not widely played, it adds context to Cerberus’s growing influence and the events leading up to the Collector crisis. Mass Effect 2 Era Mass Effect: Conviction Initial release2011Media typeComic seriesPublisherDark Horse Comics Mass Effect: Conviction (2011) bridges the events between Mass Effect 2 and Mass Effect 3. The story follows James Vega, a tough and loyal Alliance marine, as he escorts a high-value prisoner under intense political pressure and personal conflict. When the mission forces him to make a difficult moral choice, it reveals his inner struggles and dedication to doing what's right, even when it defies orders. Conviction offers early insight into Vega’s character, providing backstory for his role in Mass Effect 3 and exploring the personal burdens soldiers carry in a galaxy on the brink of war. Mass Effect 2 Initial release2010DeveloperBioWarePlatform(s)– PC– Xbox 360– PlayStation 3 Mass Effect 2 (2010) continues the story of Commander Shepard in a darker, more personal chapter of the trilogy. After a devastating attack leaves Shepard presumed dead, the mysterious pro-human organization Cerberus resurrects them to confront a new threat: the Collectors, an alien race abducting entire human colonies. With time running out, Shepard must recruit and earn the loyalty of a diverse team of specialists for a high-risk "suicide mission." Known for its polished combat, deeper character development, and emotionally charged storytelling, Mass Effect 2 is widely praised as one of the greatest sci-fi RPGs ever made. Between Mass Effect 2 & 3 Mass Effect: Retribution Version 1.0.0 Initial release2010Media typeNovelNo. of Pages356AuthorDrew Karpyshyn Mass Effect: Retribution (2010) continues the story of Paul Grayson, a former Cerberus operative introduced in Ascension. After betraying the organization, Grayson becomes the subject of a horrific experiment when Cerberus captures him and implants Reaper technology into his body to study indoctrination. As the tech begins to warp his mind, characters like Kahlee Sanders and David Anderson race against time to save him—and stop Cerberus from unleashing a new form of Reaper-based terror. Retribution deepens the moral complexity of Cerberus and sets the stage for the conflicts to come in Mass Effect 3. Mass Effect: Paragon Lost Initial release2012Media typeFilmDirectorAtsushi Takeuchi Mass Effect: Paragon Lost (2012) serves as a prequel to Mass Effect 3, focusing on the origin story of James Vega, one of Shepard’s squadmates. Set years before the Reaper invasion, the film follows Vega and his squad of Alliance marines as they battle the Collectors, who are abducting human colonists. Faced with impossible decisions and overwhelming odds, Vega’s loyalty, leadership, and morality are put to the test. The film explores the weight of command and the emotional consequences of sacrifice, offering deeper insight into Vega’s character and the rising threat that would soon engulf the galaxy. Mass Effect: Deception Initial release2010Media typeNovelNo. of Pages356AuthorDrew Karpyshyn Mass Effect: Deception (2012) is intended as a continuation of the storylines from Ascension and Retribution, it follows Gillian Grayson as she searches for answers after the death of her adoptive father. The plot involves Cerberus, biotic experimentation, and escalating tensions within the galaxy. However, Deception was widely criticized by fans and critics for numerous lore inconsistencies, character misrepresentations, and factual errors compared to established Mass Effect canon. Despite its potential, it is generally regarded as the weakest and least faithful entry in the franchise’s extended media. Mass Effect: Invasion Initial release2011Media typeComic seriesNo. of Issues4PublisherDark Horse Comics Mass Effect: Invasion (2011) focuses on Aria T’Loak, the ruthless and charismatic ruler of Omega. Set before the events of Mass Effect 3, the story follows Aria as she battles Cerberus forces attempting to seize control of her station using a new threat—Reaper-modified creatures known as Adjutants. As the invasion intensifies, Aria must rely on her cunning, strength, and brutal leadership to defend her territory. Invasion expands on Cerberus’s secret experiments and adds depth to Aria’s character, highlighting her fierce independence and pivotal role in the galaxy’s criminal underworld. Mass Effect: Homeworlds Initial release2012Media typeComic seriesNo. of Issues4PublisherDark Horse Comics Mass Effect: Homeworlds (2012) is designed to give deeper backstories to key squadmates from Mass Effect 3. Each issue focuses on a different character—James Vega, Tali'Zorah, Garrus Vakarian, and Liara T'Soni—exploring their lives before and during the events of the Reaper War. From family ties and personal sacrifices to loyalty and identity, the series offers intimate glimpses into what drives each of them. Homeworlds enriches the emotional resonance of the game by adding personal context to some of the franchise’s most beloved companions. Mass Effect 3 Era Mass Effect: Infiltrator Initial release2012DeveloperBioWarePlatform(s)– iOS– Android Mass Effect: Infiltrator (2012) serves as a side story to Mass Effect 3, offering a third-person shooter experience focused on action and covert operations. The game follows Randall Ezno, a top Cerberus operative who turns against the organization after discovering its horrific experiments on human test subjects. Fighting his way through a Cerberus facility, Randall aims to expose their crimes and aid the Alliance. While limited in scope compared to the main games, Infiltrator adds depth to the conflict between Cerberus and the galaxy's defenders, reinforcing the dark lengths Cerberus will go to in pursuit of control. Mass Effect 3 Initial release2012DeveloperBioWarePlatform(s)– PC– Xbox 360– PlayStation 3– Wii U Mass Effect 3 (2012) is the climactic finale of Commander Shepard’s journey, as the galaxy faces full-scale invasion by the Reapers—ancient, god-like machines bent on destroying all advanced civilizations. With Earth under siege, Shepard must unite alien races, make impossible decisions, and rally every available force to take a final stand. The game blends intense third-person combat with deeply emotional storytelling, culminating in choices that reflect years of player decisions across the trilogy. Mass Effect 3 delivers a powerful conclusion to the series, exploring sacrifice, unity, and the cost of survival on a galactic scale. Far Future Mass Effect: Andromeda: Initiation Initial release2017Media typeNovelNo. of Pages336AuthorMac Walters, N.K. Jemisin Mass Effect: Andromeda – Initiation (2017) serves as a prequel to Mass Effect: Andromeda. The story centers on Cora Harper, an elite biotic and former member of the human-Spectre-like group known as the Asari Commandos. Set before the departure of the Andromeda Initiative, the novel follows Cora as she undertakes a critical mission to recover stolen AI research that could jeopardize the Initiative’s future. The book explores her loyalty, identity, and ties to Alec Ryder—father of the Pathfinder twins—offering key insights into her background and motivations before the events of the game. Mass Effect: Andromeda: Nexus Uprising Initial release2017Media typeNovelNo. of Pages336AuthorJason M. Hough, K.C. Alexander Mass Effect: Andromeda – Nexus Uprising (2017) takes place during the early stages of the Andromeda Initiative’s arrival in the Heleus Cluster. The story follows Sloane Kelly, the Nexus’s head of security, as she struggles to maintain order after the station suffers catastrophic damage and leadership losses. As tensions rise among the diverse species and chaos erupts, Sloane must choose between upholding authority and forging a new, more brutal path to survival. The novel sets the stage for the fractured political landscape in Mass Effect: Andromeda, exploring themes of leadership, rebellion, and the human cost of colonization. Mass Effect: Andromeda: Annhiliation Initial release2018Media typeNovelNo. of Pages336AuthorCatherynne M. Valente Mass Effect: Andromeda – Annihilation (2018) chronicles the harrowing journey of the quarian-led Keelah Si'yah ark as it travels to the Andromeda galaxy. Carrying a diverse population of quarians, drell, elcor, volus, and hanar, the ark is struck by a deadly pathogen that begins killing passengers at an alarming rate. Security officer Siyah Kalien races to uncover the source of the outbreak before it wipes out the entire crew. The novel blends sci-fi mystery with political intrigue, expanding the scope of the Andromeda universe and highlighting the stakes and sacrifices involved in humanity’s quest for a new beginning. Mass Effect: Andromeda Initial release2017DeveloperBioWarePlatform(s)– PC– Xbox One– PlayStation 4 Mass Effect: Andromeda (2017) is a standalone entry in the Mass Effect universe, set 600 years after the original trilogy in the distant Andromeda galaxy. Players assume the role of Ryder—either Scott or Sara—a Pathfinder tasked with finding a new home for humanity and other Milky Way species. As they explore uncharted worlds, build alliances, and face off against a hostile alien force called the Kett, players must balance diplomacy, survival, and discovery. While it features expanded open-world gameplay and refined combat, Andromeda received mixed reception for its technical issues and narrative depth compared to the original trilogy.

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