16 Best Games Like Mass Effect: Your Next Epic Quest in 2025
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This list is regularly updated to match what’s trending and in-demand among gamers.
Games like Mass Effect aren’t easy to find. That mix of squad loyalty, hard choices, and deep-space storytelling doesn’t come around often. I’ve spent years chasing that same spark, and I’ve found a few games that actually deliver.
Some nail the bonds. Others hook you with combat or world-building that pulls you in for weeks. I’ve played them all – the big-budget space operas, and the ones that make you stop mid-mission just to take in the view.
If you’re still chasing that Mass Effect feeling, buckle up. These are the games that actually earn a spot on your ship.
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Our Top Picks for Games Like Mass Effect
Coming at least close to the legendary ME games is no easy task. After all, these games set a very high standard to match. But no matter how high expectations are, nothing is ever impossible. Here’s the short list of those that come the closest:
- Cyberpunk 2077 (2020) – a race against time and insane odds in an open-world, story-driven action RPG set in the chaotic, neon-drenched dystopian future.
- The Outer Worlds (2019) – shape the story of a corporate-controlled galaxy in this choice-driven RPG that feels like a cross between ME and Fallout: New Vegas.
- Dragon Age: Inquisition (2014) – ME of the fantasy games. Become the key to saving the world from a looming supernatural threat in this massive RPG story.
- Star Wars: Knights of the Old Republic (2003) – A legendary RPG and the predecessor of the ME series. Shape your own Jedi or Sith destiny in a galaxy torn by war.
- Metro Exodus (2019) – a gripping, story-driven shooter that takes you and your tight-knit crew on an epic journey across post-apocalyptic Russia.
I know that some of these may seem out of place, but I believe they have a stronger case than they appear at first glance. I’ve got 15 titles in total waiting for you on the full list, so bear with me because chances are, your next ME-like journey is just a few scrolls away.
16 Best Games Like Mass Effect for Space Chaos
Mass Effect stood out for its atmosphere, choices, and unforgettable crew moments. These games capture that same magic – from moral dilemmas to deep-space chaos. So, let’s skip the nostalgia and jump straight into the best games like Mass Effect you can actually lose yourself in.
1. Cyberpunk 2077 [Best Open-World RPG Like Mass Effect]
| Our score | 10
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| Type of game | Open-world action RPG |
| Platforms | PC, PS4, PS5, Xbox One, Xbox Series X/S |
| Year of release | 2020 (Phantom Liberty update: 2023) |
| Creators | CD Projekt Red |
| Average playtime | 40-100+ hours |
| Best for | Players who love story-driven RPGs with deep character builds and dense futuristic worlds |
| What I liked | Incredible world detail, layered storytelling, strong character writing, overhauled progression, Phantom Liberty expansion polish |
I know that games like Cyberpunk 2077 are probably not what you’d expected at the top of the list, but this placement is very much deserved. It’s not the same kind of game, but it hits a lot of the same highs – deep world-building, great characters, and choices that actually matter.
Night City feels alive, just like the Citadel did back in the day. Walking its streets, hearing random NPCs talk, seeing how the world reacts to your choices – it’s immersive in a way few games pull off.
The story, while not quite ME 2 level, is still really great. V’s journey reminded me of Shepard in a way – fighting against time, trying to beat insane odds. And Johnny Silverhand? A renegade spirit that feels like a mix of Garrus and Jack.
I picked this game because Night City feels real and full of life with its dense streets, characters who react, and a world you can’t stop exploring. Some players say small choices ripple out and change how the city responds to you, and I’ve seen that in my own playthrough.
I finished my first playthrough in about 40 hours and spent another 20 hours on the Phantom Liberty DLC, but you can potentially go way longer. It had a rough launch, no doubt, but now it feels like the game it was always meant to be, which makes now the perfect time to try it.
Also, Cyberpunk 2077 is currently featured in a crossover with the tactical shooter Arena Breakout: Infinite, which is bringing V’s iconic Samurai jacket and exclusive weapon skins to that game.
My Verdict: Cyberpunk 2077 finally became the RPG it was meant to be. After years of updates and the stellar Phantom Liberty expansion, Night City feels alive, dangerous, and worth every hour. Few games rival its mix of grit, freedom, and personal storytelling.
2. The Outer Worlds [Best Retro-Futuristic RPG Like Mass Effect]
| Our score | 9.9
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| Type of game | Action RPG, sci-fi adventure |
| Platforms | PC, PS4, PS5, Xbox One, Xbox Series X/S, Switch |
| Year of release | 2019 |
| Creators | Obsidian Entertainment, Private Division |
| Average playtime | 25-40+ hours |
| Best for | Players who love witty writing, RPG freedom, and moral gray choices |
| What I liked | Sharp dialogue, strong companions, flexible builds, humor that lands, retro-futuristic charm |
The Outer Worlds feels like a great cross between the Mass Effect trilogy and Fallout: New Vegas. It has a unique and interesting retro-futuristic feel that mixes very well with the sarcastic narrative full of twists that happen in this corporate-controlled colony that you play in.
The ship you control may not be Normandy, but it’s still awesome, and the crew has that same kind of charm. I think the strongest part of this game was the writing, and especially the dialogue. There are just so many choices you can make that give you tons of ways to roleplay and shape the narrative.
The combat is a lot closer to Fallout than anything from the ME series, but it’s fun nonetheless. You’ve got slow-motion aiming (kind of like V.A.T.S.), different playstyles, and some cool sci-fi weapons.
I added The Outer Worlds because it nails that Mass Effect balance of character, consequence, and chaos. Every choice feels like it matters, and every companion has bite. It’s one of those games where you pause mid-dialogue just to think, “Yeah, this is exactly why I play RPGs.”
At 25-30 hours with DLCs, the game is a bit short for an action RPG, but it’s packed with great moments that make it definitely worth it. It’s like Mass Effect’s scrappy, rebellious cousin, and it’s not something you want to miss out on.
My Verdict: The Outer Worlds scratches that classic Mass Effect itch with smart dialogue trees, eccentric crew members, and big player choices that actually shape the story. It’s smaller in scale than ME, but tighter, funnier, and full of personality – the kind of RPG that rewards curiosity and attitude.
3. Dragon Age: Inquisition [Best Fantasy RPG like Mass Effect]
| Our score | 9.8
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| Type of game | Action RPG, fantasy adventure |
| Platforms | PC, PS3, PS4, Xbox 360, Xbox One |
| Year of release | 2014 |
| Creators | BioWare, Electronic Arts |
| Average playtime | 60-120 hours |
| Best for | Players who live for rich characters, world-shaping decisions, and squad-based narrative RPGs |
| What I liked | Deep companion relationships, sweeping zones to explore, tough moral choices, and a hauntingly epic fantasy tone |
Dragon Age: Inquisition is basically a fantasy ME, and that’s exactly why it’s so awesome. Huge world, with deep lore, and a squad of companions that are there for you in every step of this epic journey.
In the classic RPG fashion, your choices shape the story in a major way. Just like in ME games, your decisions come back to haunt you, alliances shift, and you feel like you’re actually leading something important.
Combat’s different, obviously – third-person action borrowing some elements, like tactical pausing, from some of the most clever strategy games, just like other titles in the Dragon Age series. But while this might make it a little slower, it’s still an action RPG. Once you get into the flow, mixing abilities and commanding your party becomes a whole lot of fun.
I picked Inquisition because it’s BioWare at peak form. The companion banter alone could carry a lesser game, but here it’s backed by real depth, consequence, and those “one more quest before bed” nights that turn into 3 a.m. marathons.
The world is massive, and you can easily go for 80+ hours. While some areas (cough, Hinterlands cough) drag, the main story is wonderful and really keeps you going.
If you love ME but want something more fantasy-medieval type, this is a must-play. It’s BioWare doing what they do best, which is giving you a world, a team, and letting you shape the journey.
Also, the broader franchise just saw a surprise 2025 boost: Dragon Age: The Veilguard appeared on PlayStation Plus Essentials in March, which makes it accessible to a massive new audience just months after its launch.
My Verdict: Dragon Age: Inquisition is BioWare doing what it does best: big moral calls, layered relationships, and a world that changes based on your decisions. It’s the same DNA that made Mass Effect special, just wrapped in swords, magic, and political chaos.
4. Star Wars: Knights Of The Old Republic [Best Classic RPG Like Mass Effect]
| Our score | 9.7
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| Type of game | Party-based RPG, story-driven sci-fi |
| Platforms | PC, Xbox, Xbox 360, Xbox One, Switch |
| Year of release | 2003 |
| Creators | BioWare, Lucas Arts |
| Average playtime | 30-50 hours |
| Best for | Players who want big choices, crew loyalty, and galaxy-spanning RPG arcs |
| What I liked | Light/Dark morality with teeth, legendary twist, companion quests, dense lore, tactical combat that still holds up |
If you’re a Mass Effect fan, chances are you already know of Star Wars: Knights of the Old Republic (KOTOR). After all, it’s pretty much the blueprint for this legendary game series. And what is a better place to find something similar than going back to the roots?
Aside from being a little dated in some places, this game has it all: the same deep storytelling, the same tough choices, and the same kind of squad banter that makes you care about every character. There’s even the Light Side vs. Dark Side morality system, akin to Paragon vs. Renegade.
KOTOR is not only one of the coolest Star Wars games – it’s the grandfather of all that is held dear in the ME franchise and many other RPGs. While the old-school turn-based combat might take me a second to adjust to, it’s incredibly fun once you do. And when it comes to the narrative, I’d say that it’s easily one of the greatest in Star Wars, movies and shows included.
I put KOTOR here because it defined the vibe we chase: sharp writing, real consequences, and companions you actually care about. It’s the closest thing to steering your own sci-fi epic – years later, I still remember the choices I made.
In short, if you ever wanted to spend around 30-40 hours telling your own story in the galaxy far far away, there’s not a second to waste. And the best part is that since it’s one of the older games, it pretty much costs pennies.
A major fan-made story expansion, Sleheyron: Story Mode, is now out, adding a new planet, a fully voiced companion, and an expansion to the original KOTOR experience.
My Verdict: KOTOR is the blueprint for choice-driven space RPGs. Crew dynamics matter, decisions reshape the journey, and the story sticks the landing harder than most modern games. If you miss Mass Effect’s moral weight and squad chemistry, this is the gold standard.
5. Metro Exodus [Best Story-Driven Shooter Like Mass Effect]
| Our score | 9.6
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| Type of game | Story-driven FPS, survival, semi-open zones |
| Platforms | PC, PS4, PS5, Xbox One, Xbox Series X/S |
| Year of release | 2019 |
| Creators | 4A Games, Deep Silver |
| Average playtime | 15-35 hours |
| Best for | Players who want tense exploration, meaningful route choices, and handcrafted set pieces instead of checklist sandboxing |
| What I liked | Atmospheric level design, stealth/combat balance, strong environmental storytelling, Enhanced Edition lighting overhaul on PC/next-gen |
Continuing the topic of the games you probably didn’t expect on this list, here’s Metro: Exodus – a journey I totally didn’t think would remind me of ME, but here we are.
With one being a post-apocalyptic shooter and the other a space opera RPG, at first glance, these games couldn’t appear more different. Yet, at their core, both are about a journey with your crew in an immersive, narrative-rich world full of moral dilemmas and consequences for your actions.
Instead of the Normandy, you’ve got the Aurora, a train carrying you across a ruined Russia. Instead of aliens, you’ve got mutants and desperate survivors. The shooting is weighty, the survival mechanics add tension, and the atmosphere is incredible.
While the story is more personal and not galaxy-spanning, the character interactions hit just as hard. You bond with your crew, and their fates depend on your choices. The world feels huge, with open areas that let you explore at your own pace, and the whole game takes around 20-30 hours to beat.
I put Exodus on this list because it nails stakes and momentum. Every region feels like a self-contained story, your choices have teeth, and the Enhanced/next-gen editions make the world look absurdly good. When I want a focused, high-intensity alternative to Mass Effect, this is where I go.
Metro: Exodus is easily one of the most exciting FPS games out there, so if you’re looking for a game with such a twist that would make you feel similarly to how ME does, there’s hardly a better recommendation.
4A Games (now confirmed as the original studio) says players are “in for quite the ride” with the Metro Exodus sequel currently in development, and the series celebrated its 15th anniversary earlier this year.
My Verdict: Metro Exodus trades space opera for scorched-earth pilgrimage, but the feel is familiar: tough calls, memorable companions, and missions that escalate fast. It’s tighter than most open worlds and hits harder because of it – a great pick if you want consequence and craft over map bloat.
6. The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt [Best Story-Rich Fantasy RPG Like Mass Effect]
| Our score | 9.5
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| Type of game | Open-world action RPG |
| Platforms | PC, PS4, PS5, Xbox One, Xbox Series X/S, Switch |
| Year of release | 2015 (Next-Gen Update: 2022) |
| Creators | CD PROJEKT RED, CD PROJEKT |
| Average playtime | 50-120+ hours |
| Best for | Players who want world-class writing, meaningful choices, and a living open world that rewards exploration |
| What I liked | Peerless quest design, consequences that echo hours later, unforgettable characters, monster contracts that feel like investigations, two elite expansions |
The Witcher 3 and Mass Effect are different beasts, but they both scratch that same itch probably all RPG lovers have. Deep stories, strong characters, and choices that actually matter.
Where ME gives you the stars, The Witcher 3 throws you into a dark, messy fantasy world. However, in the end, both heroes end up playing a key role in a fight that might just determine the fate of not only them but also all known life in the respective game’s universe.
Geralt isn’t a commander like Shepard. He’s a monster hunter, a legend, but also just a guy trying to get by in a world that changes with them. You don’t just pick a dialogue option and move on; your choices shape the world in ways you don’t always see coming.
Because it proves big worlds can still be sharp and personal. The quests aren’t filler; they’re stories. When I want Mass Effect-level consequence outside of space, I load The Witcher 3 and remember how good RPG writing can be.
It’s also huge. 50+ hours for the main story, over 150 if you add the exemplary DLCs and the side quests (and trust me, you will). If getting lost in a world full of consequences, unforgettable characters, and jaw-dropping moments is what you remember from ME the best, The Witcher 3 is a must-play.
My Verdict: Nothing matches The Witcher 3 for sustained narrative quality. Every contract, village squabble, and DLC storyline lands. It’s not sci-fi, but it scratches the same itch: crew bonds, hard calls, and outcomes you feel. If you’re here for “choices with weight,” this is top tier.
7. Halo: The Master Chief Collection [Best Sci-Fi Shooter Like Mass Effect]
| Our score | 9.4
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| Type of game | Compilation FPS (campaign + multiplayer) |
| Platforms | PC, Xbox One, Xbox Series X/S |
| Year of release | 2014 |
| Creators | 343 Industries (Original games by Bungie), Xbox Game Studios |
| Average playtime | 10-15 hours per campaign, 60-100+ hours across the collection (far more for 100%) |
| Best for | Players who want a clean, modern way to run the classic Halo campaigns and jump into evergreen multiplayer without juggling old hardware |
| What I liked | Sharp 60 FPS campaigns, Anniversary upgrades (H1/H2), unified launcher on PC, huge content pool, steady post-launch fixes and QoL |
Halo: The Master Chief Collection (MMC) and the Mass Effect games are very similar and very different at the same time. ME is all about choices, relationships, and shaping the galaxy. Halo? It’s pure, unfiltered sci-fi action, but with a deep universe that pulls you in. However, both are some of the most epic games I’ve ever played.
The Master Chief and Commander Shepard are very different leaders and characters overall. Yet they’re both at the very front of the galactic war with impossible odds, a larger-than-life scale, and unimaginable stakes.
It scratches the Mass Effect itch from a different angle: character-driven sci-fi, big moral moments, and missions that escalate fast. It’s a single download that gives you a whole era of space opera – tight gunplay, memorable allies, and enough campaign hours to lose a few weekends.
Gameplay-wise, Halo is faster and more combat-focused. After all, it’s an FPS, not an RPG. However, the storytelling is still incredible, and with six full games in one collection, there are easily 40+ hours of campaign content alone.
If you love ME’s sci-fi world but want something with more action and less talking, Halo MCC is a must. It’s a different kind of space opera, but one that’s just as legendary.
My Verdict: This is the definitive way to play the Halo saga. The campaigns still punch hard, co-op is a blast, and the upgrades finally match the nostalgia in your head. If you want a big, curated sci-fi arc with squad banter and heroic set pieces, MCC delivers on volume and polish.
8. Fallout: New Vegas [Best Choice-Driven RPG Like Mass Effect]
| Our score | 9.3
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| Type of game | Open-world action RPG (first/third-person) |
| Platforms | PC, PS3, Xbox 360 |
| Year of release | 2010 |
| Creators | Obsidian Entertainment, Bethesda Softworks |
| Average playtime | 40-80 hours (100+ with DLC) |
| Best for | Players who want consequence-heavy quests, faction politics, and builds that actually change how the Mojave treats you |
| What I liked | Ruthless reactivity, legendary DLC (Old World Blues/Lonesome Road), Hardcore Mode, skill-gated dialogue, multiple true endings |
It might not seem that way at first, but if you love Mass Effect, then the Fallout series, especially New Vegas, may be what you’ll want to check out next. Let me explain why.
Both are RPGs with impeccable writing that puts a heavy focus on choices and the consequences that come with them. In New Vegas, your decisions can make or break entire factions.
New Vegas respects player intent. Your build isn’t just stats; it’s access, outcomes, and entirely different questlines. Few games commit to branching narrative like this – if you crave real agency, this is the benchmark.
The depth of the narrative is also incredible. You might not be saving the galaxy from an ancient race of machines, but navigating a post-apocalyptic wasteland filled with political intrigue, dangerous factions, and a ton of morally gray choices really does bring a similarly magnificent feeling.
New Vegas might be set on a single planet instead of the whole galaxy, but it’s much more open-ended than ME and just as alive. I spent 80+ hours exploring these wastelands, and I loved every moment of it. Whether you’re looking for something to capture your attention the way ME did or just want to try a piece of gaming history, you gotta pick this up.
My Verdict: New Vegas is the RPG brain of Mass Effect dropped into a radioactive desert. Every skill check matters, every faction remembers you, and the endgame reflects the choices you actually made. It’s messy, human, and dangerously replayable – an all-timer for consequence junkies.
9. Marvel’s Guardians of the Galaxy [Best Narrative-Driven Action Game Like Mass Effect]
| Our score | 9.2
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| Type of game | Single-player, narrative action-adventure (light squad command) |
| Platforms | PC, PS4, PS5, Xbox One, Xbox Series X/S, Switch |
| Year of release | 2021 |
| Creators | Eidos-Montréal, Square Enix |
| Average playtime | 16-22 hours |
| Best for | Fans of squad banter, big set pieces, and choice-driven dialogue without open-world bloat |
| What I liked | Elite writing and chemistry, stylish art direction, 80s mixtape soundtrack, smart “Huddle” boosts, satisfying team ability combos |
Marvel’s Guardians of the Galaxy has some obvious similarities to ME games, but it’s really a lot more than you’d expect. Both games have great storylines that focus on a ragtag crew with tons of personality.
You play as Star-Lord instead of Commander Shepard, but you still find yourself bonding with a diverse group of misfits. The writing is absolutely top-notch – hilarious, emotional, and, at times, surprisingly deep.
Marvel’s Guardians of the Galaxy nails ensemble storytelling. The choices aren’t earth-shattering, but the payoff is: better banter, different beats, real momentum. When I want a focused “crew on a mission” hit with zero filler, I load Guardians and let the mixtape carry me.
It’s one of those third-person shooters, so the combat is more action-focused compared to Mass Effect’s tactical shooter gameplay, but it’s still fun nonetheless. There are also some dialogue choices and branching paths that shape the story, though not to the same extent.
At around 15-20 hours long, it’s a quicker and more linear experience than ME, but it packs a punch like no one expected it to. Oh, and the soundtrack is absolutely unrivaled. Definitely worth playing if you want a good mix of humor and heart.
My Verdict: This is the rare licensed game that feels authored. Tight pacing, sharp dialogue, and a crew that bonds as you play. Commanding abilities mid-fight hits that “squad leader” rhythm Mass Effect fans love – without drowning you in menus.
10. Deus Ex: Human Revolution – Director’s Cut [Best Cyberpunk RPG Like Mass Effect]
| Our score | 9.1
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| Type of game | Immersive sim, action RPG, stealth |
| Platforms | PC, PS3, PS5, Xbox 360, Wii U |
| Year of release | 2013 |
| Creators | Eidos-Montréal, Eidos Interactive Corp. |
| Average playtime | 25-35 hours |
| Best for | Players who want choice-driven infiltration, multi-path levels, and important conversation checks |
| What I liked | Revamped boss fights that support stealth/hacking, layered hubs, meaningful aug builds, social showdowns, integrated DLC (“The Missing Link”) |
Deus Ex: Human Revolution is another cyberpunk-themed game to turn your attention to if you love ME games. Both revolve around making tough, impactful choices and diving deep into morally murky waters, which really gets you invested.
In Deus Ex, you play Adam Jensen, a cybernetically enhanced ex-cop in a world on the brink of chaos. It’s all about navigating a web of power struggles, corruption, and conspiracies.
What stands out is the freedom you get. Whether you sneak around, hack into systems, or go full-on combat mode – the playground’s all yours.
Deus Ex: Human Revolution – Director’s Cut rewards intent. I’ve ghosted entire missions, talked my way past “impossible” obstacles, and still found new routes on replay. Few RPGs let systems, story, and level design intersect this cleanly.
Deus Ex: Human Revolution, the first game in the soft reboot of the series, took me about 20-25 hours to beat, and by that time I was already diving head-straight into its sequel, Mankind Divided. Both of the two games were incredible, but the first one is definitely a must-play.
What could be better?
The enemy AI often feels inconsistent, sometimes too sharp, sometimes oblivious, which undermines stealth and combat alike. Facial animations are stiff, and the graphics, though stylish, appear dated, while long load times can break immersion. The story, despite tackling big themes, lacks emotional depth, with Adam Jensen remaining distant and key relationships underdeveloped.
My Verdict: This is the definitive Human Revolution. The Director’s Cut fixes the boss-fight problem, folds in the DLC, and lets your build drive every encounter. Hack, sneak, talk, or shoot – the game respects all of it. If you miss Mass Effect’s agency, this scratches the same decision-making itch in tighter spaces.
11. Control – Ultimate Edition [Best Mystery-Driven Action Game Like Mass Effect]
| Our score | 9
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| Type of game | Third-person action adventure, paranormal metroidvania |
| Platforms | PC, PS4, PS5, Xbox One, Xbox Series X/S, Switch |
| Year of release | 2020 (Ultimate Edition) |
| Creators | Remedy Entertainment, 505 Games |
| Average playtime | 12-25 hours (with Foundation/AWE) |
| Best for | Players who love stylish combat, weird fiction, and exploratory hubs that open up as you gain powers |
| What I liked | Telekinesis that feels god-tier, brutalist art direction, haunting sound design, smart level looping, DLC that ties into Alan Wake |
Control is a wild ride. It may not seem all that similar to ME at first, but as you unravel its ominous nature, you notice just how many elements align.
If you love Mass Effect’s world-building and mystery, this one will hook you fast. You’re thrown into the eerie, ever-shifting Federal Bureau of Control, a place that feels alive in the weirdest way. You play as Jesse Faden, searching for her missing brother while unraveling a deep, supernatural conspiracy.
The combat is absolutely insane. Think biotic powers from ME but cranked up. It’s also more fast-paced, leaning heavily into movement and physics-based chaos.
The story is cryptic, almost dreamlike, but incredibly engaging. The entire game with both DLCs took me way over 20 hours to complete, and boy was it worth it. I honestly can’t wait for the second game, because there is still so much left untold.
Control is the king of progression and atmosphere. Every new clearance level or power changes how you move through the Oldest House, and the combat never stops feeling punchy. It’s the kind of game you “jump in for a mission” and surface from three hours later.
I’ll say this: Do yourself a favor and go find out for yourself. It’s one of those games that’s best experienced going in as blind as you can.
What could be better?
Control can still crash or stutter on some systems, even high-end rigs, and visual bugs occasionally disrupt the experience. Its bright lighting and high-contrast visuals also cause eye strain for some players during longer sessions, which makes the game less comfortable to play for extended periods.
My Verdict: Control – Ultimate Edition is pure confidence: tight shooting, unreal telekinesis, and a headquarters that keeps unfolding as you get stronger. The Foundation and AWE DLC complete the arc and sharpen the pacing. If you want a focused, high-style sci-fi hit with real momentum, this is it.
12. Dead Space Remake [Best Sci-Fi Horror Game Like Mass Effect]
| Our score | 8.9
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| Type of game | Survival horror, third-person sci-fi shooter |
| Platforms | PC, PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X/S |
| Year of release | 2023 |
| Creators | Motive Studio, Electronic Arts |
| Average playtime | 12-15 hours, 18-22 with extras |
| Best for | Players who want airtight atmosphere, surgical combat, and a single-shot ship you can explore end-to-end |
| What I liked | Dismemberment that matters, zero-G overhaul, seamless Ishimura layout, Intensity Director, smarter side quests, audio that crawls under your skin |
The Dead Space remake is exactly what you should go for if you thought your Mass Effect experience was a little short on horror elements. It’s got that same deep sci-fi atmosphere but cranks up the tension to absolute terror.
The game is about 12-15 hours long, with insane visuals, brutal combat, and absolutely masterful horror-survival gameplay. It’s got that same polished cinematic feel as ME, but where Shepard inspires hope, Isaac just barely clings to life. No choices, no dialogue wheels, just raw, immersive storytelling as you try to survive in a spaceship overrun with horrific Necromorphs.
Because choice under stress is still choice. The ship becomes a character, your upgrades matter, and every detour pays off in story or gear. When I want focused sci-fi with real tension and clean design, this is the one I replay.
It’s not exactly ME, sure, but what is? If you love deep sci-fi worlds and engaging gameplay, with a little spice of adrenaline, Dead Space is an absolute must-play.
What could be better?
Boss battles remain largely unchanged from the original and feel underwhelming compared to the game’s other upgrades. The addition of voice lines for Isaac, while adding personality, reduces the eerie isolation that made the original so tense. Some players also find the story predictable, leaning on familiar horror tropes rather than introducing fresh ideas.
My Verdict: Dead Space Remake doesn’t just polish – it tightens. The Ishimura is one continuous space, the pacing is lethal, and the combat still rewards calm, precise shots under pressure. It’s smaller than a space opera, but the stakes feel personal and brutal in a way most big RPGs never touch.
13. Starfield [Best Space Exploration Game Like Mass Effect]
| Our score | 8.8
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| Type of game | Open-galaxy action RPG, space exploration |
| Platforms | PC, Xbox Series X/S |
| Year of release | 2023 |
| Creators | Bethesda Game Studios, Bethesda Softworks |
| Average playtime | 35-60 hours main path, 80-120+ if you chase factions/NG+ |
| Best for | Players who want big faction arcs, ship building, and long RPG loops with plenty of side routes |
| What I liked | Excellent faction questlines (Rangers, Crimson Fleet, SysDef), deep ship/outpost building, crunchy gunplay, New Game Plus twist that rewards replays |
Starfield is a title that gives you the ability to explore the universe in the way Mass Effect did not. While both are space games, they’re definitely not the same, but there’s still a ton to love. Instead of a tightly woven, cinematic RPG, you get full-blown space exploration. Over 1,000 planets, dozens of factions, and enough side quests to lose yourself in for 100+ hours.
Where ME thrives on its handcrafted worlds and deep squad interactions, Starfield is more about your individual freedom. You create your own story – build ships, join factions, smuggle contraband. The main storyline, while captivating, isn’t as big of a focus. Instead, it’s the side content where the game shines.
I like Starfield because the faction arcs and ship tinkering kept me up late. It’s the game you open to run one contract and end up planning a new hull, a new crew, and a new allegiances run. If you want long-form sci-fi role-play, it delivers.
Starfield is a game for those who love the feeling of the Mass Effect but now want a bit of a different, more personal space journey to lose themselves in. If a vast sci-fi sandbox sounds appealing, look no further.
What could be better?
Many planets feel repetitive and procedurally bland, which creates monotony across such a massive universe. Players have also expressed frustration with frequent loading screens and the absence of immersive, real-time space travel, something modders have already begun addressing themselves.
My Verdict: Starfield is Bethesda doing “space opera sandbox.” It’s less about one perfect galaxy and more about the stories you carve out: building a ship you love, picking a faction, and letting that choice snowball. When it clicks, it gives you that Mass Effect vibe of crew, cause, and consequence – just stretched across a much larger canvas.
14. Jade Empire: Special Edition [Best Martial Arts RPG Like Mass Effect]
| Our score | 8.7
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| Type of game | Action RPG (party-based, choice-driven) |
| Platforms | PC, Xbox 360, Xbox One |
| Year of release | 2007 (PC Special Edition) |
| Creators | BioWare, 2K, Microsoft Game Studios |
| Average playtime | 25-40 hours |
| Best for | Players who want morality-driven quests, companion storylines, and punchy real-time combat in a BioWare classic |
| What I liked | Sharp Light/Closed Fist morality, memorable companions, slick martial-arts styles, added content and tweaks in SE |
With its setting, Jade Empire is probably a game that might seem the furthest from Mass Effect on this list at first glance. Yet, it’s an absolute hidden gem that came before BioWare’s success with ME, and there are a lot of elements that overlap between these games.
In this rich world inspired by Chinese mythology, you’re a martial arts student and get caught in a battle between destiny and corruption. The combat is real-time martial arts, which is fast, fluid, and surprisingly deep, and is something no other RPG has ever done so well.
Jade Empire: Special Edition delivers the Mass Effect vibe – crew bonds, branching paths, and dialogue checks – without copying the formula. It’s a leaner RPG that lets your philosophy shape the story, and it’s one I still recommend to people who want that old-school BioWare high.
It took me maybe 15-20 hours, and it felt just right. The world isn’t as massive, and there’s no galaxy-spanning epicness, but the storytelling and characters are top-notch. If you love Mass Effect for its writing and choices, this game is 100% worth playing.
What could be better?
The RPG mechanics feel shallow and underdeveloped, with an economy system that adds little depth and controls that show their age. Combat can grow repetitive, and the morality system often feels binary despite the promise of more nuanced choices. The pacing also drags early on, with a slow build that only picks up in the later stages.
My Verdict: Jade Empire: Special Edition is BioWare in tight focus – choices with teeth, companions worth recruiting, and real-time martial arts that still hold up. It’s smaller than their galaxy epics, but the decisions land and the world has a pulse. If you miss classic BioWare pacing, this is the hit.
15. Alpha Protocol [Best Espionage RPG Like Mass Effect]
| Our score | 8.6
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| Type of game | Espionage action RPG, third-person shooter |
| Platforms | PC, PS3, Xbox 360 |
| Year of release | 2010 |
| Creators | Obsidian Entertainment, SEGA |
| Average playtime | 18-30 hours |
| Best for | Choice addicts who want spycraft, timed dialogue, and consequences that actually reshape missions, allies, and endings |
| What I liked | Aggressive timed dialogue (“stance” system), dossier intel that unlocks new options, reactive factions, multiple endings, flexible stealth/pistols/gadgets builds |
Have you ever wondered what Mass Effect would be like if instead of taking you on a grand mission to save the galaxy it was a spy thriller? Well, that’s pretty much what Alpha Protocol is.
It’s a well-known fact that it’s rough around the edges, but man, the RPG mechanics are incredible. Instead of playing a space hero, you’re a secret agent, Michael Thorton, making high-stakes decisions in a modern espionage world.
The dialogue system is pure gold. Timed responses force you to think fast, and your choices can easily change everything. It’s like Mass Effect’s Paragon/Renegade, but way more unpredictable.
Because it scratches the Mass Effect itch from a spy angle: squad politics, sharp timed choices, and wild downstream consequences. I’ve replayed it just to see new branches – few games reward different attitudes this much.
The game is about 15-20 hours long, and the replay value is insane. Different choices unlock entirely new mission paths. If you don’t mind its flaws, Alpha Protocol is a no-brainer here.
What could be better?
Alpha Protocol suffers from technical issues, including crashes, graphical glitches, and clunky combat mechanics. While the dialogue and timed-response system are innovative, both conversation and combat lack the polish of more refined RPGs. Even with multiple branching choices, level design often feels linear, and replay paths can become repetitive.
My Verdict: Alpha Protocol is messy in places, but the reactivity is unmatched. Who you sweet-talk, threaten, or burn changes who shows up later, how missions unfold, and which bosses even exist. If you want decisions that hit harder than most modern RPGs, this is the cult classic.
16. The Outer Worlds 2 [Mass Effect Meets Squad-Drama and Corporate Satire]
| Our score | TBD |
| Type of game | Action role-playing game, sci-fi adventure |
| Platforms | PC, PS5, Xbox Series X/S |
| Year of release | 2025 |
| Creators | Obsidian Entertainment, Xbox Game Studios |
| Average playtime | 35-60 hours main story, 80+ including side paths |
| Best for | Players who want squad banter, branching choices, and a wild ride across strange planets |
| What I liked | Sharper writing than the original, more flexible builds (stealth, diplomacy, brute force), full first- and third-person play, wild weapons (freeze rays, satellite hijacks), dense faction systems |
One of the best space games is now set in a new star system. The Outer Worlds 2 drops you into a fresh mess of corporate wars and moral ambiguity. Your job? Navigate factions, pick a crew, and figure out what “freedom” means when mega-corporations dominate the stars. The dialogue crackles, the companions have real personality, and somewhere between hacking terminals and blowing up satellites, you’ll feel a connection to your crew that rivals the Normandy days.
The Outer Worlds 2 channels that Mass Effect energy – crew chemistry, story branches that matter, and a universe you can actually shape. After playing the preview loops, I could already see how choices ripple. This isn’t just “in the spirit of” ME – it stands on its own.
Mechanics have been streamlined without sacrificing depth – the skill tree is tighter, builds feel meaningful, and combat is faster but still grounded. I played through the opening planet three times with wildly different characters: a smooth-talking negotiator who never fired a shot, a brute who bulldozed everything in his path, and a hacker sneaking through vents with electric knives. Each playthrough opened new paths, and confirmed new allies.
My experience? It hit the right kind of nostalgia while pushing forward. I laughed (at the satire), I paused (when dialogue choices made me cringe), and I planned entire runs around avoiding pogo sticks in space. If you loved the squad dynamic and moral weight of Mass Effect, this one’s made for you.
My Verdict: The Outer Worlds 2 earns its spot for capturing the heart of what good sci-fi RPGs do: meaningful choices, memorable allies, and a world you’ll want to revisit. It might not replace Mass Effect day-one for everyone, but for those who want that feeling back, this is the next stop.
My Overall Verdict on Games Like Mass Effect
Games like Mass Effect hit different, depending on what kind of player you are – the planner, the talker, the explorer, or the chaos pilot. Here’s where I’d start:
- For story-driven explorers > Cyberpunk 2077. The closest you’ll get to another Mass Effect-level world. Choices matter, relationships shift, and Night City feels as alive as any galaxy BioWare ever built.
- For classic RPG purists > The Outer Worlds. Shorter than most open worlds but sharper. Smart writing, reactive quests, and sarcastic brilliance – the perfect mix of freedom and focus.
- For tactical role-players > Dragon Age: Inquisition. Think less space opera, more political war room. Squad control, layered strategy, and companions that evolve with every decision you make.
- For lore-first storytellers > Star Wars: Knights of the Old Republic. The blueprint. Every loyalty mission, moral fork, and dialogue tree in Mass Effect owes something to this one. Still unmatched in writing and consequence.
- For grit-loving realists > Metro Exodus. No moral meters, no blue-or-red outcomes – just human choices in a dying world. It’s raw, grounded, and built for players who like their sci-fi messy and real.
However you play (by the book, on instinct, or full renegade), these are the worlds that still give me that Mass Effect rush: tight squads, hard calls, and stories that stick long after the credits.
FAQs
The best game like Mass Effect is Cyberpunk 2077. CD Projekt RED turned it into a true next-gen RPG – heavy on story, dialogue, and player consequence. You still recruit allies, shape outcomes through choices, and live with the fallout. Think Mass Effect’s moral weight, just with neon and chrome.
Yes, Halo and Mass Effect are both epic sci-fi stories of heroic soldiers and their grand battles, but while Mass Effect is an RPG, Halo is an FPS game.
No. While both are space RPGs, Starfield is more about exploration and sandbox freedom, and Mass Effect is more of a story-driven epic adventure with more of a tactical spin on combat.
No, not exactly. While Dragon Age games take place in the same universe, they’re not directly connected to each other like the Mass Effect trilogy, where the same protagonist and most side characters appear in each game.
Mass Effect is more like Star Trek as it focuses on exploration, complex relationships, and grand threats, but there are many Star Wars elements, too.
