In ME1, the Mako felt like – and was – an integral part of the game. Almost all of the main missions featured Mako sequences, side-mission planets were explored via the Mako, and it was just a really great way of mixing up the “usual” Bioware RPG features with a bit of additional action, without taking away anything from the RPG elements. For these reasons, I loved the Mako.

The Hammerhead in ME2, however, has not been a real part of the game. Sure, the controls are great, and we get 6 missions where we can use it, but that’s about it. The Hammerhead is a DLC feature and therefore, none of the main story missions make use of it, it’s not used on any remote planets other than in the Firewalker missions, and it just feels tacked on. Especially so when viewed in reference of how amazingly Bioware made use of the Mako in the first installment.

Another issue I had with the Firewalker missions is that they all took place in a closed environment (Overlord less so than the rest), with invisible walls sealing off parts of the map, and that really bothered me. In ME1, I could drive the Mako through a lot of open maps, most of which allowed me to climb even the most challenging mountain if I had enough perseverance, and exploration was rewarded with hidden bonuses and cool points of interest. The Hammerhead missions, in reference, feel like something out of a racing game. And there’s no problem with that, it just lacks the same kind of depth the Mako in ME1 had in my opinion.

Well, that’s all I really wanted to say. Great video, by the way, Joe. I just furrowed my eyebrows a bit when you said that all the great features from the first game were there in Mass Effect 2, and that has sprung this rant out of me. ME2 is still a great game, I just wish Bioware would have found new, innovative ways to make use of the Mako instead of removing it.

BTW isn’t here a way to edit my posted messages? >D

1. Galaxy Map: Maybe I am the only one, but I don’t like this new stile of flying with this tiny ship on the map…It’s nice as a picture however.

2. Less RPG stuff: I hate to buy something and then I have it automatically

3. Console style instead of a PC feeling

4. Mining

5. Better ME1 style of ammo then in ME2 or ME3

It’s just my own opinion but I think that ME1 was even better in some parts then ME2. HOWEVER interaction with other characters and their personal stories was very cool! Also ME2 better with missions without repetition of level design (Optional missions) then ME1.

lol love the reviews keep it up!