Mass Effect finally gets RPG style board game

Fans of Bioware’s outer-space RPGs have something to celebrate, as a new Mass Effect board game is releasing later this year.

Mass Effect fans have had a difficult few years. The series attempted to find a new direction following the conclusion of the acclaimed original trilogy, but to the disappointment of its legions of loyal players, Mass Effect has been left in stasis since Andromeda’s release drew mixed reactions.

A new title in the spacefaring series, appearing to continue directly from the original trilogy, has been teased since 2020. Unfortunately, Anthem’s shuttering and Dragon Age Dreadwolf’s troubled development history have seemingly required most of the studio’s attention.

Now, a new Mass Effect experience has been announced. While it isn’t a new video game title, this board game is sure to appeal to longtime fans of the series. With Modiphius behind the wheel and Asmodee publishing, it’s safe to say that the crew of the Normandy is back in business.

Who’s making the Mass Effect board game?

Bioware

Mass Effect the Boardgame – Priority: Hagalaz has been created by Eric M. Lang and Calvin Wong Tze Loon, and will be published by Modiphius. The game takes place during the events of Mass Effect 3, as the galaxy scrambles to find any possible advantage to use against the encroaching Reaper invasion.

The closest Mass Effect has come to a board game adaptation until now has been licensed versions of existing games like Risk and Monopoly. But with detailed, high-production-value adaptations like Steamforged’s Dark Souls and Resident Evil games taking off in recent years, it’s honestly a surprise that Mass Effect hasn’t received a dedicated board game experience until now. Thankfully, Modiphius is on hand to rectify this mistake.

Mass Effect the Boardgame – Priority: Hagalaz details

The storm-wracked world of Hagalaz – onetime home to the Shadow Broker’s base in Mass Effect 2 – is the setting for a crucial Priority mission. A Cerberus research cruiser has crashed on the planet, and with little time to spare, Commander Shepard must lead a team into the cruiser’s depths to uncover some of Cerberus’ darkest secrets.

Just like with the mainline Mass Effect games, players are encouraged to build their ideal squad from a roster of loyal companions. Shepard leads the Hagalaz mission, and players will choose from Liara, Wrex, Garrus, and Tali as companions, each with their own highly detailed 32mm plastic mini.

Far from a simple one-and-done, Mass Effect the Boardgame – Priority: Hagalaz features multiple branching story missions to complete, with card-driven AI playing a part, replicating the in-depth, consequence-heavy RPG storytelling Mass Effect is beloved for.

In fact, Priority: Hagalaz looks to replicate many pillars of Mass Effect’s design. Squadmates will level up their powers and gear as missions progress, with optional Loyalty missions to complete. Co-op is very much the name of the game here, whether piloting your squad solo or working with up to three other players.

Mass Effect the Boardgame – Priority: Hagalaz will be released via Asmodee later in 2024. The official date is TBA, but we’ll be sure to let you know as soon as details are available.