The Mass Effect trilogy offers players a variety of different combat experiences, utilizing tech, combat, and biotic skills to allow customization in gameplay. Biotics in Mass Effect are a useful tool that allows Shepard to lift and throw enemies - but how exactly do these biotic abilities work?
Mass Effect's universe is full of deep worldbuilding, most of which can be found within the game's built-in codex as players explore various areas and conversations. The universe was further fleshed out through tie-in comics and novels over the years. Fans have many opportunities to discover new depth to the races, locations and characters introduced in BioWare's iconic franchise.
Over the course of the Mass Effect series, players are able to recruit a number of companions who utilize biotics in combat. Conversations with biotic-capable crewmates reveal contrasting viewpoints on the history of biotics and how their abilities work, and through extensive exploration players can gain a fuller understanding of the explanation behind these mysterious skills.
The Origin Of Mass Effect's Biotic Abilities
In Mass Effect Biotics function similarly to powers such as telepathy as depicted in other media. It allows individuals to lift and move objects from afar, generate barriers of energy to shield them or their allies, and even create gravitational vortexes that can draw enemies in or tear them apart. These powers are actually a manifestation of mass effect fields, which are created through the use of Element Zero and can alter the mass content of space-time. Biotic-wielders in the Mass Effect series were often exposed to Element Zero at a young age, and this allowed the development of nodes in their nervous system that allows them to create and control mass effect fields through extensive training.
Cybernetic implants are utilized to allow human biotics to control their usage of Element Zero, whereas species such as the Asari are able to do so naturally. Several squadmates throughout the Mass Effect series have different levels of biotic control, and in many cases this plays an important role in their story and development. Kaidan, a biotic companion in Mass Effect 1 and ME3, has optional conversations regarding his use of an outdated biotic implant and the effect this has on his powers and physiology. Jack, who acts as a crewmate in Mass Effect 2, was experimented on as a child to enhance her biotic abilities. Even Shepard is able to use biotics, depending on which class players select at the beginning of the game.
Biotics are one of many story elements of the Mass Effect series that play a major role in the universe of the franchise. These abilities serve as more than just a unique tool in combat - they also make the world of the trilogy feel comprehensive and alive.