The Mass Effect games have always been about humanity trying to prove itself in a universe full of aliens, but a new leak suggests Mass Effect: Andromeda is looking to push this even further.
A survey posted on NeoGAF reads, “Mass Effect: Andromeda takes players to the Andromeda galaxy, far beyond the Milky Way, where players will lead the fight for a new home in hostile territory–where WE are the aliens–opposed by a deadly indigenous race bent on stopping us.”
In another portion, it continues, saying “There is a major battle brewing, and it awaits you. It is unfolding across a galaxy of planets, with creatures and species entirely unknown. Draw your weapon, because the fight is bigger than you thought. It’s not just for your own life, it’s for all of humanity–the ultimate battle for a place we can all call home.”
The idea of humanity being an outsider is nothing new, but exploring the hostility that rises from that is. The original Mass Effect game took place after humanity’s war with the Turians. But it appears Andromeda will be tackling a similar subject matter head on.
It’s an interesting choice, especially considering real-world modern history, and the volatility and colonialism that shaped it. Placing humanity as a whole in a fight for territory against an indigenous population certainly has the chance to make for some complex and emotional storytelling, if not also a, potentially, politically charged game.
Elsewhere in the survey, even more emphasis is placed on the explorative aspect of the sequel. “Experience the freedom to traverse and explore a planet-dense but seamless open-world galaxy, rich with discovery. Play as the leader of a squad of military-trained explorers in an intense third-person shooter, with deep progression and customization systems. This is the story of humanity’s next chapter, and player choices throughout the game will ultimately determine our survival in the Andromeda galaxy.”
Though originally meant to release this fall, Bioware recently delayed Mass Effect: Andromeda to 2017. As we learn more about the game, you’ll find it all right here on Gamespresso.