Polygon recommends ten science-fiction games for players seeking elements of Mass Effect, particularly meaningful choices, memorable companions, romance, morality systems and the feeling of leading a crew through a vast universe. The list matters because it distinguishes between close predecessors and games that share only selected strengths, such as player agency, squad dynamics or space exploration.

– Star Wars: Knights of the Old Republic — BioWare’s earlier space RPG, with choices, companions, romance and morality systems that helped form Mass Effect’s blueprint.
– The Outer Worlds — a smaller-scale, satirical space RPG with planetary exploration, companions and consequential choices.
– Fallout: New Vegas — not set in space, but recommended for its factions, player agency and choices that alter the story’s outcome.
– Cyberpunk 2077 — included as a science-fiction RPG exploring isolation and self-discovery.