Mass Effect Galaxies, formerly Mass Effect: Jacob's Story, is an iPhone game developed by Bioware to offer fans of the franchise a little more in the way of mythology and action. It's a top down shooter with a great deal of personality for such a tiny title. It is not required to enjoy the series, but playing the game does give you insight into more of what is going on with characters you will encounter in the highly anticipated sequel, Mass Effect 2, Jacob and Miranda.

Many of the same options in the 'higher end titles' appear here, including biotic powers and branching conversation trees. Unfortunetly, using the branching conversation mechanic here does not seem to have as much weight as it does in the aformentioned big brother to this game.



Bioware has taken the guess work out of combat by allowing the character, Jacob,  to shoot automatically at anything the reticule is on when he is within range. This can be a useful tool, however, it does make the game somewhat easier than expected. Enemies aren't the most crackshot of advesaries and can be evaded by tilting the iPhone - the way in which you will manage your characters movement.



The map is also a quick affair, though the game, to its credit, has its own cutscenes rendered in a stylized illustration style and even has the jump gate scenes as well. Graphically, the game is not too much more impressive than most iPhone/iTouch titles and doesn't stand out that much. The game shines more in the familiar writing and dependance on the mythology than anything else.



I would say this is definitely going to be for fans of the series that can't wait until they get the next big fix - alongside this, I would recommend delving into the Mass Effect novels: Revelation and Ascenion. This small title plays out like an interactive novela at times, albeit a shorter than expected one. I recommend it to those that are looking for a quick adventure title or for, again, fans of the series. The price may be a bit of an aversion for some but I reason by saying I am paying for more insight into a franchise that is quickly becoming one of my all time favorite. Also, beating the game unlocks some content for the upcoming Mass Effect 2, certainly a welcome incentive. Thankfully, the elevator portions are noticably absent.

I'm hoping that the sub-title change from simply Jacob's Story is a signal that this is not the last we will see of small episodic games relesed for the mobile platform. There could be a more significant audience for this -  and even a standalone series in the universe if they make it a bit more robust.

You can snag it from iTunes here.