So I've started Andromeda. It's getting late but here's some random thoughts so far.
It really really feels like the huge successor to Mass Effect 1. This game seems to have exploded on the exploration and adventuring on planets, the galaxy map looks and operates pretty sweet (sadly no manual flying but then again I would've flown into a star just to see what happened and likely killed everyone so that's probably for the best), the combat is getting more fun each time I play and get more used to it, I also love the combat customization so far but I'm not very far into it yet either.
I like to drive the Nomad with a 'eh fuck it' attitude, it gets me where I want to go, even if I have to plow through rocks and Kett
Speaking of, only met the Kett so far and just got off Eos after vault stuff. Story-wise it's still just beginning, seems like, but it's intruiging.
They did a great job at making this game feel like a brand new adventure. It's reflected in the gameplay, the mechanics, the story, etc. I like how it all seamlessly collides into this 'You're in a new galaxy with a new story and this is about adventure and discovery'.
I'm FemRyder, so I don't know yet how similar her and Scott are in their dialogue and such, but she definitely feels young and new and eager. She herself reflects the purpose of the game I mentioned above. As a side note I'm making her a more 'follow your heart' character.
Anyhow, point is, she's very different from Shepard. Shepard fit the trilogy so well. Shepard is a badass that you look up to, that you might deeply love, might be afraid of, and goddamn you want her on your team because she will fuck shit up if she has to to set things right. Shepard is a warrior, with experience, compassion, and maturity. She is a natural leader.
Ryder is very different from Shepard. Young and eager and inexperienced, determined, full of a drive to discover the unknown. An explorer. And possibly TOO eager. I can see Ryder going through some tough shit as the game goes on. Stuff that'll hopefully make her grow more and mature a bit. She doesn't quite feel like a natural leader like Shepard. But we'll see what happens.
Oh and so far I...quite like the companions, actually. Squadmates, whatever. Even the human ones. Like, the humans aren't actually boring as shit.
Oh and I'm enjoying the game. Taking a bit to warm up to in a way, like the first ME, but it's got me hooked now.
Okay that's all for now, be back again eventually.