Retribution, the third Mass Effect novel, takes place just after the events of Mass Effect 2. Written by the lead writer of the first game and the two previous novels, it’s a well written standalone adventure that ties in closely with both of the games and both previous novels.

I’m sure that even if I didn’t play the games I’d still enjoy these books. It’s just good science fiction, simple as that. Complex characters, detailed description and most importantly, interesting and engaging stories. If you do play the games, then there’s that special added touch of being able to visualize most of what is being written here without any difficulty.

After reading it, I hope that it ties into the third game. The antagonist deserves a major ass-kicking and I’m hoping that I’ll be the one doing it! This seamless flow of games and books as the development cycle for the games continue is such a treat. You feel like you never lose touch with the Mass Effect universe and it adds so much more depth to the games.

If you’re ready to go out and buy this, make sure you played the second game first. If you’re all played out on the second game, then pick this up for an extra dose of the Mass Effect universe. It’ll help ease that craving for the third game which is still a year or so away!