Insider Gamer’s Loop

Mass Effect was one of the most highly acclaimed games of 2007 (and 2008, if you count the PC release), and has been praised extensively for its intricate plot and well written dialogue. Drew Karpyshyn, lead writer of the Mass Effect games, wrote a prequel novel leading up to the first game’s release, and has now released a second novel to bridge the gap between the end of the first game and its eventual sequel.

Mass Effect: Ascension focuses on Kahlee Sanders, a main character from the first book (who had some run ins with Saren and the now Captain Anderson), delves deeper into the secrets of the Quarian species, reveals more about the illegal syndicate Cerberus, and introduces Omega, the dark antithesis to the Citadel.

Ascension released on July 29, 2008 - which means you can go out and pick it up now. You can snag it from Amazon, your local book store, or even download the ebook version.

[insert opinion here]

Read this book.

Having been a fan of the Halo novels, I’m a believer that video games with deep plot can indeed translate into a good novel (or novels) in the right hands. Back in ‘07, excited for the release of Mass Effect, and trusting the writing prowess of Mr. Karpyshyn, I tried out Mass Effect: Revelation, the first novel in the ME universe. Suffice it to say, I was blown away.

Drew Karpyshyn was the main writer for Knights of the Old Republic, Jade Empire, and Baldur’s Gate II games, and he’s written a couple of Star Wars EU novels to boot. Anyone who has had the chance to experience his work knows the man is nothing short of genius when it comes to crafting a compelling story that keeps you coming back for more.

Do yourself a favor and read this book. Even if you don’t like video games, even if you don’t like Mass Effect, or science fiction, or any fiction, or reading at all - read this book. You’ll thank yourself for it later.