The largest free multiplayer DLC for Mass Effect 3 was announced this past week. Most notably it features the Collectors (didn't we kill those guys?) and is aptly titled "Retaliation".
Today, in a developer's blog BioWare talked details on the upcoming DLC, and touted it as being a "real game-changer" for those who play multiplayer.
Okay, let me just start off what we're all probably wondering about: the Collectors. While there's no story reason why they're back, BioWare did completely re-create the Scion, making his appearance become "much more menacing" to account for his devastating arm cannon. As for what their in-game goals are, one gameplay designer said “The Collectors are truly about controlling space and restricting escape routes. The Collector Captain suppresses power based classes using seeker swarms, which players can target and destroy if they are quick enough.”
The gigantic pain in the ass known as the Praetorian is also back, with just one of its abilities being able to create a biotic sphere around itself, completely blocking incoming powers and allowing the rest of the Collectors to take up cover behind it.
BioWare claims players are going to have to rethink how they've been using powers in combat and bring a balanced team to have a shot at defeating the Collectors.
And of course fan-favorite Harbinger will be back, taking over any Collector force he wishes in typical assuming direct control style. BioWare claims the effect will vary based on whatever Harby's taken over at the time.
Retaliation also brings about a new infiltrator class to the turian race, the Turian Ghost. From the description they sound a bit like a playable version of Garrus as they have extra damage potential, and have a Stim Pack that allows Ghosts to "survive situations no one else can." They also use propulsion packs and "advanced stealth technology" to launch airstrikes on enemies.
Another addition to the popular turian race is the Turian Havoc soldier. The Havoc Soldier also uses propulsion packs to launch airstrikes, similar to a Vanguard's Biotic Charge. BioWare promises 12 more kits will become available in the coming weeks that will offer "unique power combinations that provide new gameplay and tactical choices.
A few new hazard maps have also been added such as maps containing acid rain (ouch) and two will become available each week. Of course there are also new weapons based off Collector technology and so have that unique "buggy" look.
BioWare also says the other two kits that come with Retaliation are "top-secret reinforcements" from far-off pares of the galaxy that can now support front-line troops on the battlefield. Interesting.
You can check out the full details here, but there's no doubt we're getting a lot of bang for our buck, especially because it costs zero of those– bucks, I mean. Say what you will about BioWare, they're definitely supporting their multiplayer fans.
