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Difference between revisions of "Mass Effect 3"

From PCGamingWiki, the wiki about fixing PC games
m (→‎High frame rate: was added without a proper ref in the first place https://www.pcgamingwiki.com/w/index.php?title=Mass_Effect_3&diff=next&oldid=1429672)
 
(249 intermediate revisions by 67 users not shown)
Line 4: Line 4:
 
|developers  =  
 
|developers  =  
 
{{Infobox game/row/developer|BioWare}}
 
{{Infobox game/row/developer|BioWare}}
 +
{{Infobox game/row/developer|Psyonix|Multiplayer|ref=<ref>{{Refurl|url=https://twitter.com/psyonixstudios/status/730916124179628032|title=Psyonix on Twitter: "@Shinjiki81 Well, we helped contribute to the multiplayer for that one. The lovely folks at @bioware crafted the rad single-player game."|date=2017-07-23}}</ref>}}
 
|publishers  =  
 
|publishers  =  
 
{{Infobox game/row/publisher|Electronic Arts}}
 
{{Infobox game/row/publisher|Electronic Arts}}
Line 10: Line 11:
 
|release dates=  
 
|release dates=  
 
{{Infobox game/row/date|Windows|March 6, 2012}}
 
{{Infobox game/row/date|Windows|March 6, 2012}}
|steam appid  =  
+
|reception    =
|gogcom page  =  
+
{{Infobox game/row/reception|Metacritic|mass-effect-3|89}}
 +
{{Infobox game/row/reception|IGDB|mass-effect-3|91}}
 +
|taxonomy    =
 +
{{Infobox game/row/taxonomy/monetization      | One-time game purchase, DLC, Cross-game bonus, Subscription gaming service }}
 +
{{Infobox game/row/taxonomy/microtransactions | Currency, Loot box}}
 +
{{Infobox game/row/taxonomy/modes            | Singleplayer, Multiplayer }}
 +
{{Infobox game/row/taxonomy/pacing            | Real-time }}
 +
{{Infobox game/row/taxonomy/perspectives      | Third-person }}
 +
{{Infobox game/row/taxonomy/controls          | Direct control }}
 +
{{Infobox game/row/taxonomy/genres            | ARPG, Shooter }}
 +
{{Infobox game/row/taxonomy/sports            | }}
 +
{{Infobox game/row/taxonomy/vehicles          | }}
 +
{{Infobox game/row/taxonomy/art styles        | Realistic }}
 +
{{Infobox game/row/taxonomy/themes            | LGBTQ, Sci-fi, Space }}
 +
{{Infobox game/row/taxonomy/series            | Mass Effect }}
 +
|steam appid  = 1238020
 +
|gogcom id    =
 +
|official site= https://www.ea.com/games/mass-effect/mass-effect-3
 +
|hltb        = 5707
 +
|lutris      = mass-effect-3
 
|strategywiki = Mass Effect 3
 
|strategywiki = Mass Effect 3
 +
|mobygames    = mass-effect-3
 
|wikipedia    = Mass Effect 3
 
|wikipedia    = Mass Effect 3
 
|winehq      = 13930
 
|winehq      = 13930
 +
|license      = commercial
 
}}
 
}}
{{Series|Mass Effect}}
 
  
'''Key points'''
+
{{Introduction
{{++}} Mass Effect 3 can optionally import save games from [[Mass Effect 2]], which in turn can import save games from [[Mass Effect]].
+
|introduction      =
 +
 
 +
|release history  =
 +
 
 +
|current state    =
 +
}}
  
 
'''General information'''
 
'''General information'''
{{mm}} [http://masseffect.bioware.com/me3/ Official game site]
+
{{mm}} [https://steamcommunity.com/app/1238020/discussions/ Steam Community Discussions]
{{mm}} [http://forum.bioware.com/forum/64-mass-effect-3/ Official forums]
 
{{mm}} [http://masseffect.wikia.com/wiki/Mass_Effect_Wiki Mass Effect Wiki]
 
  
 
==Availability==
 
==Availability==
 
{{Availability|
 
{{Availability|
{{Availability/row| Retail |  | Origin | |  | Windows }}
+
{{Availability/row| Retail |  | Origin | Executable on disk contains {{Removed DRM|SecuROM}} Release Control |  | Windows }}
{{Availability/row| Amazon | B0064TYOLW | Origin | {{store link|Amazon|B0064TYOLW|Digital Deluxe}} |  | Windows }}
+
{{Availability/row| Microsoft Store | / | Microsoft Store, Origin | N7 Digital Deluxe Edition. Included exclusively with {{Store feature|Xbox Game Pass}} as part of its version of EA Play. | | Windows }}
{{Availability/row| Gamesplanet | 1581-1 | Origin | | | Windows }}
+
{{Availability/row| Origin | mass-effect/mass-effect-3 | Origin | N7 Digital Deluxe Edition. Included with {{Store feature|EA Play}}. Digital Deluxe also available. |  | Windows }}
{{Availability/row| Origin | mass-effect-3 | Origin | | | Windows }}
+
{{Availability/row| Steam | 1238020 | Steam, Origin | N7 Digital Deluxe Edition. Included with {{store feature|EA Play}}. |  | Windows }}
 +
{{Availability/row| Gamesplanet | 1581-3 | Origin | Mass Effect Trilogy. Includes [[Mass Effect]] and [[Mass Effect 2]]. | | Windows | unavailable }}
 +
{{Availability/row| Humble | mass-effect-trilogy | Origin | Mass Effect Trilogy | | Windows | unavailable }}
 
}}
 
}}
 
{{ii}} All versions require {{DRM|Origin}}.
 
{{ii}} All versions require {{DRM|Origin}}.
{{--}} Game will not run in offline mode on Origin. You can bypass it altogether with [http://blog.nofate.me/?p=35 this]
+
 
 +
===Version differences===
 +
{{ii}} The '''N7 Digital Deluxe Edition''' includes the base game, all DLC (singleplayer and multiplayer) and digital goodies (soundtrack, artbook, *Genesis 2* comic).
 +
 
 +
==Monetization==
 +
{{ii}} DLC can be downloaded through Origin by right-clicking Mass Effect 3 and selecting '''View Game Details'''. The Final Hours Of Mass Effect 3, soundtrack, and artbook can be downloaded for free from [https://www.ea.com/games/ea-downloadable-extras this EA page].
 +
{{++}} All DLC is free on Origin/EA Desktop as of July 13, 2022.<ref>{{Refurl|url=https://www.pcgamer.com/ea-kills-off-bioware-points-making-old-mass-effect-and-dragon-age-dlc-free/|title=PC Gamer - EA kills off BioWare Points, making old Mass Effect and Dragon Age DLC free|date=2022-07-14}}</ref> The DLC Bundle is free as of August 15, 2022. Steam later followed in May 5, 2023.
 +
{{--}} This game has in-game microtransactions (not listed below).
 +
 
 +
{{Monetization
 +
|ad-supported                =
 +
|cross-game bonus            = Owning [[Battlefield 3]] on EA App will unlock a multiplayer character class.
 +
|dlc                        = The DLC includes story missions and items.
 +
|expansion pack              =
 +
|freeware                    =
 +
|free-to-play                =
 +
|one-time game purchase      = The game requires an upfront purchase to access.
 +
|sponsored                  =
 +
|subscription                =
 +
|subscription gaming service = Available via [[EA Play]].
 +
}}
  
 
{{DLC|
 
{{DLC|
{{ii}} This game has in-game micro-transactions (not listed below).
 
{{ii}} DLC can be bought through Origin by right clicking Mass Effect 3 and '''View Game Details''' or from Amazon
 
 
{{DLC/row| Alternate Appearance Pack 1 |  | Windows }}
 
{{DLC/row| Alternate Appearance Pack 1 |  | Windows }}
 
{{DLC/row| Citadel |  | Windows }}
 
{{DLC/row| Citadel |  | Windows }}
{{DLC/row| Earth | Free. | Windows }}
+
{{DLC/row| Earth Multiplayer Expansion | Free | Windows }}
{{DLC/row| Extended Cut | Free. | Windows }}
+
{{DLC/row| Extended Cut | Free | Windows }}
 
{{DLC/row| Firefight Pack |  | Windows }}
 
{{DLC/row| Firefight Pack |  | Windows }}
 
{{DLC/row| From Ashes | Included in Digital Deluxe | Windows }}
 
{{DLC/row| From Ashes | Included in Digital Deluxe | Windows }}
Line 48: Line 92:
 
{{DLC/row| Groundside Resistance Pack |  | Windows }}
 
{{DLC/row| Groundside Resistance Pack |  | Windows }}
 
{{DLC/row| Leviathan |  | Windows }}
 
{{DLC/row| Leviathan |  | Windows }}
{{DLC/row| M90 Indra Sniper Rifle | | Windows }}
+
{{DLC/row| M90 Indra Sniper Rifle | Redeemable through Alienware Promo or Included with Firefight Pack | Windows }}
{{DLC/row| Mass Effect™ Trilogy Art | Included in Mass Effect Trilogy bundle | Windows }}
+
{{DLC/row| Mass Effect Trilogy Art | Included in Mass Effect Trilogy bundle | Windows }}
{{DLC/row| Mass Effect 3 Digital Art Books | Included in Digital Deluxe | Windows }}
+
{{DLC/row| N7 Collector's Edition Content | Included in Digital Deluxe | Windows }}
{{DLC/row| Mass Effect 3 Soundtrack | Included in Digital Deluxe | Windows }}
 
{{DLC/row| N7 Collector's Edition materials | Included in Digital Deluxe | Windows }}
 
 
{{DLC/row| Omega |  | Windows }}
 
{{DLC/row| Omega |  | Windows }}
{{DLC/row| Reckoner Knight Armor | Obtained by launching [[Kingdoms of Amalur: Reckoning]] demo<ref>{{Refurl|url=http://www.ign.com/wikis/mass-effect-3/Kingdoms_of_Amalur_Crossover_Content|title=Kingdoms of Amalur Crossover Content - Mass Effect 3 Wiki Guide - IGN|date=2016-8-30}}</ref> (Available on {{store link|Steam|102500|Steam}}) | Windows }}
+
{{DLC/row| Reckoner Knight Armor | Originally able to be obtained by logging in to account in [[Kingdoms of Amalur: Reckoning]] demo<ref>{{Refurl|url=http://www.ign.com/wikis/mass-effect-3/Kingdoms_of_Amalur_Crossover_Content|title=Kingdoms of Amalur Crossover Content - Mass Effect 3 Wiki Guide - IGN|date=2016-8-30}}</ref> (The demo is still available on [https://steamdb.info/app/203970/ Steam] but the servers are shut down) | Windows }}
{{DLC/row| Reckoning | Free. | Windows }}
+
{{DLC/row| Reckoning Multiplayer Expansion | Free | Windows }}
{{DLC/row| Rebellion | Free. | Windows }}
+
{{DLC/row| Rebellion Multiplayer Expansion | Free | Windows }}
{{DLC/row| Resurgence | Free. | Windows }}
+
{{DLC/row| Resurgence Multiplayer Expansion | Free | Windows }}
{{DLC/row| Retaliation | Free. | Windows }}
+
{{DLC/row| Retaliation Multiplayer Expansion | Free | Windows }}
 
}}
 
}}
  
 
==Essential improvements==
 
==Essential improvements==
 
===Skip intro videos===
 
===Skip intro videos===
{{Fixbox|1=
+
{{Fixbox|description=Use the <code>-nostartupmovies</code> [[Glossary:Command line arguments|command line argument]]|ref=<ref>{{Refcheck|user=Blackbird|date=2016-11-02|comment=Makes the game skip right to '''Press any key to continue'''}}</ref>}}
{{Fixbox/fix|Modify ME3_sig_logo in bioengine.ini|ref=<ref>[http://masseffect.wikia.com/wiki/PC_Tweaks_(Mass_Effect_3)#Disable_the_intro_movie_.28EA_logo.29 PC Tweaks (Mass Effect 3) - Mass Effect Wiki]</ref>}}
+
 
 +
{{Fixbox|description=Modify ME3_sig_logo in bioengine.ini|ref=<ref>[https://masseffect.fandom.com/wiki/PC_Tweaks_(Mass_Effect_3)#Disable_the_intro_movie_.28EA_logo.29 PC Tweaks (Mass Effect 3) - Mass Effect Wiki]</ref>|fix=
 
# Download and run [http://wenchy.net/me3-coalesced-utility/ ME3 Coalesced Utility].
 
# Download and run [http://wenchy.net/me3-coalesced-utility/ ME3 Coalesced Utility].
# In the utility open <code>Coalesced.bin</code> from <code>{{p|game}}\BIOGame\CookedPCConsole\</code>
+
# In the utility, open {{file|Coalesced.bin}} from {{folder|{{p|game}}\BIOGame\CookedPCConsole}}>
 
# Go to the <code>bioengine.ini > fullscreenmovie > startupmovies</code> section.
 
# Go to the <code>bioengine.ini > fullscreenmovie > startupmovies</code> section.
 
# Add a semicolon in front of the <code>ME3_sig_logo</code> line like so: <code>;ME3_sig_logo</code>
 
# Add a semicolon in front of the <code>ME3_sig_logo</code> line like so: <code>;ME3_sig_logo</code>
 
# Save the file and exit the utility.
 
# Save the file and exit the utility.
 
}}
 
}}
 +
 +
===Bug Fixes===
 +
====[https://www.nexusmods.com/masseffect3/mods/974 Unofficial Mass Effect 3 Patch]====
 +
{{ii}} Various bug fixes, visual corrections and QoL improvements for Mass Effect 3.
 +
{{++}} Also fixed the Ashley Marksman bug.
 +
{{ii}} May have cause performance issue for low-end hardware.<ref>{{Refurl|url=https://www.nexusmods.com/masseffect3/mods/974?tab=posts|title=|date=2023-07-14}}</ref>
 +
 +
====[https://www.nexusmods.com/masseffect3/mods/439 Interface Scaling Mod]====
 +
{{ii}} Scales up PC platform-specific HUD elements to the size they were on consoles, which is natively set to 720p.
 +
{{++}} Works both in singleplayer and multiplayer.
 +
 +
====[https://www.nexusmods.com/masseffect3/mods/691 Project Variety]====
 +
{{ii}} A major bug fix and overhaul mod.
 +
{{++}} Compatible with numerous mods. See [https://www.nexusmods.com/masseffect3/articles/131 here.]
 +
 +
====[https://www.nexusmods.com/masseffect3/mods/927 True Ashley Marksman Fix]====
 +
{{ii}} Fix for Ashley when using the Marksman Skill.
 +
{{ii}} Not required if UME3P & Fix Pack is installed, but can still be used.
  
 
==Game data==
 
==Game data==
{{Image|Mass Effect 3 General.png|In-game general settings.}}
 
{{Image|Mass Effect 3 Narrative.png|In-game narrative settings.}}
 
 
 
===Configuration file(s) location===
 
===Configuration file(s) location===
 
{{Game data|
 
{{Game data|
{{Game data/row|Windows|{{p|userprofile}}\Documents\BioWare\Mass Effect 3\BIOGame\Config\}}
+
{{Game data/config|Windows|{{p|userprofile\Documents}}\BioWare\Mass Effect 3\BIOGame\Config\}}
 +
{{Game data/config|Microsoft Store|}}
 
}}
 
}}
  
 
===Save game data location===
 
===Save game data location===
 
{{Game data|
 
{{Game data|
{{Game data/row|Windows|{{p|userprofile}}\Documents\BioWare\Mass Effect 3\Save\}}
+
{{Game data/saves|Windows|{{p|userprofile\Documents}}\BioWare\Mass Effect 3\Save\}}
 +
{{Game data/saves|Microsoft Store|}}
 
}}
 
}}
 +
{{ii}} DLC files are saved in {{folder|{{P|game}}\BIOGame\DLC}}; an explanation of the folder names and which DLC they represent can be found [https://me3explorer.fandom.com/wiki/DLC_Content#Mass_Effect_3 here].
 +
{{++}} Mass Effect 3 can optionally import save games from [[Mass Effect 2]], which in turn can import save games from [[Mass Effect]].
  
 
===[[Glossary:Save game cloud syncing|Save game cloud syncing]]===
 
===[[Glossary:Save game cloud syncing|Save game cloud syncing]]===
 
{{Save game cloud syncing
 
{{Save game cloud syncing
|origin               = true
+
|discord                  =
|origin notes         =  
+
|discord notes            =
|steam cloud           =  
+
|epic games launcher      =
|steam cloud notes    =  
+
|epic games launcher notes =
|uplay                =  
+
|gog galaxy                =
|uplay notes           =  
+
|gog galaxy notes          =
 +
|origin                   = true
 +
|origin notes             =  
 +
|steam cloud               = false
 +
|steam cloud notes        =
 +
|ubisoft connect          =
 +
|ubisoft connect notes    =  
 +
|xbox cloud                = unknown
 +
|xbox cloud notes         =  
 
}}
 
}}
  
==Video settings==
+
==Video==
 +
{{Image|Mass Effect 3 General.png|In-game general settings.}}
 +
{{Image|Mass Effect 3 Narrative.png|In-game narrative settings.}}
 
{{Image|Mass Effect 3 Video.png|In-game video settings.}}
 
{{Image|Mass Effect 3 Video.png|In-game video settings.}}
{{Video settings
+
{{Video
|wsgf link                  = http://www.wsgf.org/dr/mass-effect-3/en
+
|wsgf link                  = https://www.wsgf.org/dr/mass-effect-3/en
 
|widescreen wsgf award      = limited
 
|widescreen wsgf award      = limited
 
|multimonitor wsgf award    = limited
 
|multimonitor wsgf award    = limited
 
|ultrawidescreen wsgf award = incomplete
 
|ultrawidescreen wsgf award = incomplete
 
|4k ultra hd wsgf award    = incomplete
 
|4k ultra hd wsgf award    = incomplete
|widescreen resolution      = true
+
|widescreen resolution      = limited
|widescreen resolution notes=  
+
|widescreen resolution notes= {{Term|Vert-}}, use [https://www.flawlesswidescreen.org Flawless Widescreen] or [https://github.com/dlrudie/WidescreenFixer/releases Widescreen Fixer].
 
|multimonitor              = hackable
 
|multimonitor              = hackable
|multimonitor notes        = Use [https://www.flawlesswidescreen.org Flawless Widescreen] or [https://www.widescreenfixer.org Widescreen Fixer].
+
|multimonitor notes        = Use [https://www.flawlesswidescreen.org Flawless Widescreen] or [https://github.com/dlrudie/WidescreenFixer/releases Widescreen Fixer].
 
|ultrawidescreen            = hackable
 
|ultrawidescreen            = hackable
|ultrawidescreen notes      = Use [https://www.flawlesswidescreen.org Flawless Widescreen].<ref>[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HMiYtAWSmqY How to fix games for 21:9 Ultrawide Gaming - Mass Effect 3, Ori and the Blind Forest, GoT, Fallout 4 - YouTube]</ref>
+
|ultrawidescreen notes      = Use [https://www.flawlesswidescreen.org Flawless Widescreen]<ref>{{Refurl|url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HMiYtAWSmqY|title=How to fix games for 21:9 Ultrawide Gaming - Mass Effect 3, Ori and the Blind Forest, GoT, Fallout 4 - YouTube|date=May 2023}}</ref> or [https://github.com/dlrudie/WidescreenFixer/releases Widescreen Fixer].
|4k ultra hd                = true
+
|4k ultra hd                = limited
|4k ultra hd notes          =  
+
|4k ultra hd notes          = {{Term|Vert-}}, use [https://www.flawlesswidescreen.org Flawless Widescreen] or [https://github.com/dlrudie/WidescreenFixer/releases Widescreen Fixer], and [https://www.nexusmods.com/masseffect3/mods/439 Interface Scaling Mod].
 
|fov                        = hackable
 
|fov                        = hackable
|fov notes                  = Use [https://www.flawlesswidescreen.org Flawless Widescreen] or [https://www.widescreenfixer.org Widescreen Fixer].<br/>The latter maintains correct FOV during cutscenes.
+
|fov notes                  = Default is 75°. See [[#Field of view (FOV)|Field of view (FOV)]].
 
|windowed                  = true
 
|windowed                  = true
 
|windowed notes            =  
 
|windowed notes            =  
 
|borderless windowed        = true
 
|borderless windowed        = true
|borderless windowed notes  = Native option called '''Window (No Border)'''.
+
|borderless windowed notes  = If the taskbar appears on top, set the game to Fullscreen and then back to Window (No Border) to eliminate it.<ref>Tested by [[User:Andytizer|Andytizer]]</ref>
 
|anisotropic                = true
 
|anisotropic                = true
|anisotropic notes          =  
+
|anisotropic notes          = The level of filtering can be adjusted in <code>MassEffect3Config.exe</code>.
|antialiasing              = true
+
|antialiasing              = limited
 
|antialiasing notes        = [[FXAA]] only. For other options see [[#Anti-aliasing (AA)|Anti-aliasing (AA)]].
 
|antialiasing notes        = [[FXAA]] only. For other options see [[#Anti-aliasing (AA)|Anti-aliasing (AA)]].
|vsync                      = true
+
|upscaling                  = unknown
|vsync notes                =  
+
|upscaling tech            =
 +
|upscaling notes            =
 +
|vsync                      = always on
 +
|vsync notes                = Forced on by default. To disable see [[#Vertical sync (Vsync)|Vertical sync (Vsync)]].
 
|60 fps                    = true
 
|60 fps                    = true
|60 fps notes              =  
+
|60 fps notes              = Cutscenes are capped at 30FPS.
 
|120 fps                    = hackable
 
|120 fps                    = hackable
 
|120 fps notes              = See [[#High frame rate|High frame rate]].
 
|120 fps notes              = See [[#High frame rate|High frame rate]].
 +
|hdr                        = unknown
 +
|hdr notes                  =
 
|color blind                = unknown
 
|color blind                = unknown
 
|color blind notes          =  
 
|color blind notes          =  
 
}}
 
}}
  
<!--This doesn't seem to be necessary since Widescreen Fixer is able to handle cutscenes correctly. I left it anyway.
+
{{ii}}Several graphic settings cannot be changed in-game.
 +
 
 
===[[Glossary:Field of view (FOV)|Field of view (FOV)]]===
 
===[[Glossary:Field of view (FOV)|Field of view (FOV)]]===
{{ii}} This changes the FOV without affecting cutscenes.
+
{{Fixbox|description=Use third-party mods|ref=|fix=
 +
# [https://www.flawlesswidescreen.org Flawless Widescreen]
 +
# [https://github.com/dlrudie/WidescreenFixer/releases Widescreen Fixer]
 +
# [https://www.nexusmods.com/masseffect3/mods/663 Mass Effect 3 FoV Mod].
  
{{Fixbox|1=
+
'''Notes'''
{{Fixbox/fix|Add custom binding to bioinput.ini|ref={{cn|date=July 2016}}}}
+
{{--}} Widescreen Fixer affects FOV during cutscenes.
 +
}}
 +
{{Fixbox|description=Set camera FOV (doesn't affect cutscenes)|ref=<ref>{{Refurl|url=https://hamstergene.github.io/posts/2012-11-27-fixing-mass-effect-fov/|title=How to actually fix FOV in Mass Effect · Eugene Homyakov|date=9 June 2023}}</ref>|fix=
 
# Download and run [http://wenchy.net/me3-coalesced-utility/ ME3 Coalesced Utility].
 
# Download and run [http://wenchy.net/me3-coalesced-utility/ ME3 Coalesced Utility].
# In the utility open <code>Coalesced.bin</code> from <code>{{p|game}}\BIOGame\CookedPCConsole\</code>
+
# In the utility, open {{file|Coalesced.bin}} from {{folder|{{p|game}}\BIOGame\CookedPCConsole}}.
 
# Go to the <code>bioinput.ini > sfxgame > sfxgamemodedefault > bindings</code> section.
 
# Go to the <code>bioinput.ini > sfxgame > sfxgamemodedefault > bindings</code> section.
 
# Add this custom binding via empty line at the bottom of bindings list. <pre>( Name="F1", Command="set SFXGame.SFXCameraMode FOV 90" )</pre>
 
# Add this custom binding via empty line at the bottom of bindings list. <pre>( Name="F1", Command="set SFXGame.SFXCameraMode FOV 90" )</pre>
Line 145: Line 228:
 
# Save the file and exit the utility.
 
# Save the file and exit the utility.
 
# Press {{key|F1}} once each gaming session while being able to control Shepard, i.e. not in a cutscene or menu.
 
# Press {{key|F1}} once each gaming session while being able to control Shepard, i.e. not in a cutscene or menu.
}}-->
+
 
 +
'''Notes'''
 +
{{--}} Only works in singleplayer. Activating this fix while in singeplayer then returning to the main menu and attempting a multiplayer match will result in disconnects. To remedy this, restart the game, since that also resets the FOV.
 +
}}
 +
 
 +
{{Fixbox|description=Use ThirteenAG's Mass Effect Trilogy FOV Fix|fix=
 +
# Download the archive from [https://thirteenag.github.io/wfp#masseffect here].
 +
# Download and extract the archive to the game directory, where the exe is located (<code>Binaries</code> or <code>Binaries\Win32</code>)
 +
 
 +
'''Notes'''
 +
{{++}} Automatically corrects in-game FOV ({{Term|Hor+}})
 +
{{++}} Works with Mass Effect 1 and Mass Effect 2
 +
{{--}} 16:9 only{{CN|Non-16:9 aspect ratios are untested and could be possibly buggy}}
 +
}}
 +
 
 +
===[[Glossary:Frame rate (FPS)|High frame rate]]===
 +
{{Fixbox|description=Change frame rate smoothing|ref={{cn|2024-04-06}}|fix=
 +
# Go to the [[#Game data|configuration file(s) location]].
 +
# Open {{file|GamerSettings.ini}}.
 +
# Under <code>[SystemSettings]</code>, add the line <code>SmoothFrameRate=FALSE</code>.
 +
# Save file.
 +
{{ii}} For more information, see the [[Engine:Unreal Engine 3#Smoothed frame rate|Unreal Engine 3 page]].
 +
 
 +
{{ii}}High FPS affects the following:
 +
* enemy AI will be more accurate
 +
* shields will regenerate slower
 +
* powers can not be used from cover, requiring the player to lean out manually
 +
}}
  
 
===[[Glossary:Anti-aliasing (AA)|Anti-aliasing (AA)]]===
 
===[[Glossary:Anti-aliasing (AA)|Anti-aliasing (AA)]]===
 
{{ii}} By default the game only has FXAA for anti-aliasing. But is possible to force other anti-aliasing types.
 
{{ii}} By default the game only has FXAA for anti-aliasing. But is possible to force other anti-aliasing types.
  
{{Fixbox|1=
+
{{Fixbox|description=Use Nvidia Inspector (Nvidia only)|ref={{cn|Has this been accurately tested, especially around lights? ME1 breaks there for instance}}|fix=
{{Fixbox/fix|Use NVIDIA Inspector (NVIDIA only)|ref={{cn|date=July 2016}}}}
+
# Download and launch [[Nvidia Profile Inspector]].
# Download and launch [http://www.guru3d.com/files_details/nvidia_inspector_download.html NVIDIA Inspector]
 
# Open up '''Driver Profile Settings'''
 
 
# Choose '''Mass Effect 3''' from the profile list
 
# Choose '''Mass Effect 3''' from the profile list
 
:'''[[MSAA]]'''
 
:'''[[MSAA]]'''
Line 172: Line 280:
 
}}
 
}}
  
===[[Glossary:Borderless fullscreen windowed|Borderless fullscreen windowed]]===
+
===[[Glossary:Vertical sync (Vsync)|Vertical sync (Vsync)]]===
{{ii}} If the taskbar appears on top, set the game to Fullscreen and then back to Window (No Border) to eliminate it.<ref>Tested by [[User:Andytizer|Andytizer]]</ref>
+
{{Fixbox|description=Disable VSync|ref=<ref>{{Refurl|url=https://www.geforce.com/whats-new/guides/mass-effect-3-tweak-guide#9|title=Mass Effect 3 Tweak Guide - Configuration File|date=2017-08-26}}</ref>|fix=
 
+
# Go to the [[#Game data|configuration file(s) location]].
===[[Glossary:Frame rate (FPS)|High frame rate]]===
+
# Open {{file|GamerSettings.ini}}.
{{Fixbox|1=
+
# Add the line <code>UseVSync=False</code> under the '''[SystemSettings]''' section.
{{Fixbox/fix|Disable 62 FPS cap|ref={{cn|Untested, check one of the two. And please explain if v-sync is always enforced or not -.-|date=July 2016}}}}
+
# Save the changes.
# Open {{file|[[#Configuration file(s) location|Gamersettings.ini]]}}
 
# Add the following under <code>[SystemSettings]</code>
 
<pre>bSmoothFrameRate=FALSE
 
SmoothFrameRate=False</pre>
 
 
 
'''Notes'''
 
{{ii}} Causes issues in the game. Enemies will be more accurate and your shields will recharge slower. Prevents usage of powers from cover unless you first lean out manually.
 
 
}}
 
}}
  
==Input settings==
+
==Input==
 
{{Image|Mass Effect 3 Controls.png|In-game general control settings.}}
 
{{Image|Mass Effect 3 Controls.png|In-game general control settings.}}
 
{{Image|Mass Effect 3 Remapping.png|In-game key map settings.}}
 
{{Image|Mass Effect 3 Remapping.png|In-game key map settings.}}
{{Input settings
+
{{Input
 
|key remap                = true
 
|key remap                = true
 
|key remap notes          =  
 
|key remap notes          =  
 
|acceleration option      = hackable
 
|acceleration option      = hackable
|acceleration option notes = Negative acceleration when "Mouse Dampening" is enabled in options. Can also be tweaked through Coalesced.bin.{{CN|test ME2 fix if still working. we cannot just say "Can also be tweaked through Coalesced.bin"}}
+
|acceleration option notes = Negative acceleration when "Mouse Dampening" is enabled in options. Can also be tweaked through Coalesced.bin.{{CN|test ME2 fix if still working. we cannot just say 'Can also be tweaked through Coalesced.bin'}}
 
|mouse sensitivity        = true
 
|mouse sensitivity        = true
 
|mouse sensitivity notes  =  
 
|mouse sensitivity notes  =  
Line 201: Line 302:
 
|invert mouse y-axis      = true
 
|invert mouse y-axis      = true
 
|invert mouse y-axis notes =  
 
|invert mouse y-axis notes =  
 +
|touchscreen              = unknown
 +
|touchscreen notes        =
 
|controller support        = hackable
 
|controller support        = hackable
 
|controller support notes  = See [[#Controller support|Controller support]].
 
|controller support notes  = See [[#Controller support|Controller support]].
Line 207: Line 310:
 
|controller remap          = false
 
|controller remap          = false
 
|controller remap notes    =  
 
|controller remap notes    =  
|controller sensitivity    = unknown
+
|controller sensitivity    = false
 
|controller sensitivity notes=  
 
|controller sensitivity notes=  
 
|invert controller y-axis  = false
 
|invert controller y-axis  = false
 
|invert controller y-axis notes=  
 
|invert controller y-axis notes=  
|touchscreen              = unknown
+
|xinput controllers        = unknown
|touchscreen notes         =  
+
|xinput controllers notes =  
|button prompts           = unknown
+
|xbox prompts             = unknown
|button prompts notes     =  
+
|xbox prompts notes       =
|controller hotplug        = unknown
+
|impulse triggers          = unknown
|controller hotplug notes =  
+
|impulse triggers notes    =  
|haptic feedback          = unknown
+
|dualshock 4              = unknown
|haptic feedback notes     =  
+
|dualshock 4 notes         =  
 +
|dualshock prompts        = unknown
 +
|dualshock prompts notes   =  
 
|light bar support        = unknown
 
|light bar support        = unknown
 
|light bar support notes  =  
 
|light bar support notes  =  
 +
|dualshock 4 modes        = unknown
 +
|dualshock 4 modes notes  =
 +
|tracked motion controllers= unknown
 +
|tracked motion controllers notes =
 +
|tracked motion prompts    = unknown
 +
|tracked motion prompts notes =
 +
|other controllers        = unknown
 +
|other controllers notes  =
 +
|other button prompts      = unknown
 +
|other button prompts notes=
 +
|button prompts            = Xbox
 +
|button prompts notes      = See [[#Controller support|Controller support]].
 +
|controller hotplug        = false
 +
|controller hotplug notes  =
 +
|haptic feedback          = hackable
 +
|haptic feedback notes    = See [[#Controller support|Controller support]].
 +
|simultaneous input        = hackable
 +
|simultaneous input notes  = See [[#Simultaneous mouse and joystick support|Simultaneous mouse and joystick support]]
 
}}
 
}}
  
 
===[[Controller|Controller support]]===
 
===[[Controller|Controller support]]===
  
Complete Xbox 360 interface restoration:
 
http://www.nexusmods.com/masseffect3/mods/407/?
 
  
https://me3tweaks.com/forums/viewtopic.php?f=5&t=5
+
{{Fixbox|description=Native Xbox 360 UI Controller Support|fix=
  
{{Fixbox|1=
+
* [https://www.nexusmods.com/masseffect3/mods/407 Singleplayer]
{{Fixbox/fix|Replace Coalesced.bin|ref=<ref>{{Refurl|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150916043841/http://forum.bioware.com/topic/270412-hacking-in-gamepad-support-on-pc-coalescedbin/page-2|title=Hacking in gamepad support on PC - Coalesced.bin - The BioWare Forum|date=2016-8-17}}]</ref>}}
+
* [https://www.nexusmods.com/masseffect3/mods/374 Multiplayer]
# Download the [http://community.pcgamingwiki.com/files/file/30-mass-effect-3-xbox-360-controller-support/ replacement Coalesced.bin].
+
}}
# Move it to <code>{{p|game}}\BIOGame\CookedPCConsole</code>, replacing the existing file.
+
 
# Connect your controller and launch Mass Effect 3. The controller should now work.
+
{{Fixbox|description=Barebones controller support|ref=<ref>{{Refurl|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150916043841/http://forum.bioware.com/topic/270412-hacking-in-gamepad-support-on-pc-coalescedbin/page-2|title=Hacking in gamepad support on PC - Coalesced.bin - The BioWare Forum|date=2016-8-17}}</ref>|fix=
 +
# Download the [https://community.pcgamingwiki.com/files/file/30-mass-effect-3-xbox-360-controller-support/ replacement Coalesced.bin].
 +
# Move it to {{folder|{{p|game}}\BIOGame\CookedPCConsole}}, replacing the existing file.
 +
# Connect the controller and launch Mass Effect 3. The controller should now work.
  
 
'''Notes'''
 
'''Notes'''
 
{{--}} The mouse is still required in menus and conversations.
 
{{--}} The mouse is still required in menus and conversations.
{{ii}} If you have made other changes to <code>Coalesced.bin</code> you will need to redo them.
+
{{ii}} If other changes were made to {{file|Coalesced.bin}}, they will need to be redone.
 +
{{ii}} This method should not be mixed with the native controller mods, as it will break them.
 +
}}
 +
 
 +
===[[Controller|Simultaneous mouse and joystick support]]===
 +
 
 +
{{Fixbox|description=Enable joystick move to be used with mouse|ref=<ref>https://masseffect.fandom.com/wiki/PC_Tweaks_(Mass_Effect_3)</ref>|fix=
 +
# Download [http://wenchy.net/me3-coalesced-utility// ME3-Coalesced Utility].
 +
# In the utility, open {{file|Coalesced.bin}} from {{folder|{{p|game}}\BIOGame\CookedPCConsole}}.
 +
# Go to {{code|[Bioengine.ini > winDrv > windowsClient]}} and then change {{code|allowjoystickInput}} from 0 to 1.
 +
# Go to {{code|[bioinput.ini > SFXGame > SFXGameModeBase > Bindings]}} and paste in the following, and then save and exit program:
 +
<pre>( Name="XboxTypeS_LeftX",Command="Axis aStrafe Speed=1.0 DeadZone=0.3")
 +
( Name="XboxTypeS_LeftY",Command="Axis aBaseY Speed=1.0 DeadZone=0.3")
 +
( Name="XboxTypeS_RightX",Command="Axis aTurn Speed=0.2 DeadZone=0.3")
 +
( Name="XboxTypeS_RightY",Command="Axis aLookup Speed=0.2 DeadZone=0.3")</pre>
 
}}
 
}}
  
==Audio settings==
+
==Audio==
 
{{Image|Mass Effect 3 Audio.png|In-game audio settings.}}
 
{{Image|Mass Effect 3 Audio.png|In-game audio settings.}}
{{Audio settings
+
{{Audio
 
|separate volume          = true
 
|separate volume          = true
 
|separate volume notes    =  
 
|separate volume notes    =  
 
|surround sound          = true
 
|surround sound          = true
|surround sound notes    = Up to 5.0
+
|surround sound notes    = 5.0<ref>{{Refurl|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150619170154/http://forum.bioware.com/topic/120614-can-me1-and-me2-support-71-surround-sound/?p=6505068|title=Can ME1 and ME2 support 7.1 surround sound? - The BioWare Forum|date=2016-8-17}}</ref><ref>{{Refurl|url=https://satsun.org/audio/|title=PC Gaming Surround Sound Round-up|date=May 2023}}</ref>
 
|subtitles                = true
 
|subtitles                = true
 
|subtitles notes          =  
 
|subtitles notes          =  
Line 254: Line 392:
 
|mute on focus lost      = true
 
|mute on focus lost      = true
 
|mute on focus lost notes =  
 
|mute on focus lost notes =  
|eax support              =  
+
|eax support              = hackable
|eax support notes        =  
+
|eax support notes        = See ''Surround sound notes''.
 +
|royalty free audio      = false
 +
|royalty free audio notes = Combination of original and licensed music.
 
}}
 
}}
  
Line 266: Line 406:
 
  |notes    =  
 
  |notes    =  
 
  |fan      =  
 
  |fan      =  
  |fan notes =  
+
}}
 +
{{L10n/switch
 +
|language  = Czech
 +
|interface = hackable
 +
|audio    = false
 +
|subtitles = hackable
 +
|notes    = Fan translation, [http://cestinybeta.rpgcitadela.cz/portfolio/mass-effect-3/ Download]
 +
  |fan       = true
 
}}
 
}}
 
{{L10n/switch
 
{{L10n/switch
Line 275: Line 422:
 
  |notes    =  
 
  |notes    =  
 
  |fan      =  
 
  |fan      =  
|fan notes =
 
 
}}
 
}}
 
{{L10n/switch
 
{{L10n/switch
Line 284: Line 430:
 
  |notes    =  
 
  |notes    =  
 
  |fan      =  
 
  |fan      =  
  |fan notes =  
+
}}
 +
{{L10n/switch
 +
|language  = Hungarian
 +
|interface = hackable
 +
|audio    = false
 +
|subtitles = hackable
 +
|notes    = [https://magyaritasok.hu/magyaritasok/mass-effect-3/mass-effect-3-dlc/2270 Fan translation].
 +
  |fan       = true
 
}}
 
}}
 
{{L10n/switch
 
{{L10n/switch
Line 293: Line 446:
 
  |notes    =  
 
  |notes    =  
 
  |fan      =  
 
  |fan      =  
|fan notes =
 
 
}}
 
}}
 
{{L10n/switch
 
{{L10n/switch
Line 302: Line 454:
 
  |notes    =  
 
  |notes    =  
 
  |fan      =  
 
  |fan      =  
  |fan notes =  
+
}}
 +
{{L10n/switch
 +
|language  = Brazilian Portuguese
 +
|interface = hackable
 +
|audio    = false
 +
|subtitles = hackable
 +
|notes    = [https://tribogamer.com/traducoes/323_traducao-do-mass-effect-3-para-portugues-do-brasil.html Translation.]
 +
  |fan       = true
 
}}
 
}}
 
{{L10n/switch
 
{{L10n/switch
 
  |language  = Russian
 
  |language  = Russian
 
  |interface = true
 
  |interface = true
  |audio    = unknown
+
  |audio    = false
  |subtitles = unknown
+
  |subtitles = true
 
  |notes    =  
 
  |notes    =  
 
  |fan      =  
 
  |fan      =  
|fan notes =
 
 
}}
 
}}
 
{{L10n/switch
 
{{L10n/switch
Line 320: Line 478:
 
  |notes    =  
 
  |notes    =  
 
  |fan      =  
 
  |fan      =  
|fan notes =
 
 
}}
 
}}
 
}}
 
}}
  
 
==Network==
 
==Network==
 +
{{Image|Mass Effect 3 Network.png|In-game online settings.}}
 
{{Network/Multiplayer
 
{{Network/Multiplayer
 
|local play          =  
 
|local play          =  
Line 333: Line 491:
 
|lan play players    = 4
 
|lan play players    = 4
 
|lan play modes      = Co-op
 
|lan play modes      = Co-op
|lan play notes      = Use [http://me3explorer.freeforums.org/me3-private-server-lan-download-t1457.html ME3 Private Server Emulator].
+
|lan play notes      = Use [https://sourceforge.net/projects/me3privateserveremulatorlan/ ME3 Private Server Emulator/LAN].
 
|online play          = true
 
|online play          = true
 
|online play players  = 4
 
|online play players  = 4
Line 358: Line 516:
 
|tcp  =  
 
|tcp  =  
 
|udp  = 5659, 6000
 
|udp  = 5659, 6000
|upnp =  
+
|upnp = unknown
 
}}
 
}}
  
Line 371: Line 529:
 
|native 3d notes            =  
 
|native 3d notes            =  
 
|nvidia 3d vision            = hackable
 
|nvidia 3d vision            = hackable
|nvidia 3d vision notes      = See [http://helixmod.blogspot.com/2012/03/mass-effect-3-3d-vision-fix-update.html Helix Mod: Mass Effect 3]
+
|nvidia 3d vision notes      = See [https://helixmod.blogspot.com/2019/05/mass-effect-3.html Helix Mod: Mass Effect 3].
 
|tridef 3d                  = true
 
|tridef 3d                  = true
 
|tridef 3d notes            =  
 
|tridef 3d notes            =  
 
|iz3d                        =  
 
|iz3d                        =  
 
|iz3d notes                  =  
 
|iz3d notes                  =  
 +
|vorpx                      = true
 +
|vorpx modes                = G3D
 +
|vorpx notes                = Officially supported game, see [https://www.vorpx.com/supported-games/ official vorpx game list].
 
|htc vive                    =  
 
|htc vive                    =  
 
|htc vive notes              =  
 
|htc vive notes              =  
 
|oculus rift                =  
 
|oculus rift                =  
 
|oculus rift notes          =  
 
|oculus rift notes          =  
|tracked motion controllers  =  
+
|osvr                        =  
|tracked motion controllers notes=  
+
|osvr notes                 =  
 
|keyboard-mouse              =  
 
|keyboard-mouse              =  
 
|keyboard-mouse notes        =  
 
|keyboard-mouse notes        =  
Line 390: Line 551:
 
|trackir                    =  
 
|trackir                    =  
 
|trackir notes              =  
 
|trackir notes              =  
 +
|tobii eye tracking          =
 +
|tobii eye tracking notes    =
 
|play area seated            =  
 
|play area seated            =  
 
|play area seated notes      =  
 
|play area seated notes      =  
Line 396: Line 559:
 
|play area room-scale        =  
 
|play area room-scale        =  
 
|play area room-scale notes  =  
 
|play area room-scale notes  =  
 +
}}
 +
 +
==Issues unresolved==
 +
==="Tuchanka: Turian Platoon" mission doesn't progress in the last section===
 +
{{--}} If the two Harvester enemies are killed before they should be then the one in the last section of the mission will never appear causing the mission to be stuck<ref>{{Refurl|url=https://gamefaqs.gamespot.com/boards/995452-mass-effect-3/62164592|title=Anyone having problems with Tuchanka: Turian Platoon? I need help. - Mass Effect 3|date=2020-12-26}}</ref><ref>{{Refurl|url=https://fextralife.com/forums/t500712/tuchanka--turian-platoon--bug/|title=Fextralife View topic - Tuchanka - Turian Platoon - Bug|date=2020-12-26}}</ref>
 +
{{Fixbox|description=Restart the mission and don't kill the first two Harvester enemies|ref=<ref>{{Refcheck|user=Blackbird|date=2020-12-26|comment=}}</ref>|fix=
 
}}
 
}}
  
 
==Issues fixed==
 
==Issues fixed==
 
{{ii}} GeForce.com has created a [http://www.geforce.com/Optimize/Guides/mass-effect-3-tweak-guide#1 comprehensive guide] for fixing issues in this game.
 
{{ii}} GeForce.com has created a [http://www.geforce.com/Optimize/Guides/mass-effect-3-tweak-guide#1 comprehensive guide] for fixing issues in this game.
 
==='Origin (EA) is no longer running. Mass Effect 3 will now close'===
 
{{Fixbox|1=
 
{{Fixbox/fix|Reinstall Origin into default folder|ref=<ref>Tested by [[User:Andytizer|Andytizer]].</ref>}}
 
Make sure Origin is installed in the default folder (<code>C:\Program Files (x86)\Origin\</code>), not on another drive.
 
}}
 
  
 
===64bit Version Error Message===
 
===64bit Version Error Message===
{{Fixbox|1=
+
{{Fixbox|description="Incompatible Windows Version" Error Message|ref={{cn|date=October 2016}}|fix=
{{Fixbox/fix|64bit Version Error Message}}
 
 
The following error message may appear:
 
The following error message may appear:
 
:The version of this file is not compatible with the version of Windows you're running. Check your computer's system information to see whether you need a x86 (32-bit) or x64 (64-bit) version of the program, and then contact the software publisher.
 
:The version of this file is not compatible with the version of Windows you're running. Check your computer's system information to see whether you need a x86 (32-bit) or x64 (64-bit) version of the program, and then contact the software publisher.
Line 419: Line 581:
 
Mouse movement may cause slowdowns. This can be fixed by disabling Origin overlay within the game.
 
Mouse movement may cause slowdowns. This can be fixed by disabling Origin overlay within the game.
  
{{Fixbox|1=
+
{{Fixbox|description=Mouse Causing Stuttering|ref={{cn|date=July 2016}}|fix=
{{Fixbox/fix|Mouse Causing Stuttering|ref={{cn|date=July 2016}}}}
 
 
# Click on the gear in the top right.
 
# Click on the gear in the top right.
 
# Click "Settings".
 
# Click "Settings".
Line 427: Line 588:
 
}}
 
}}
  
===MSVCR90.dll startup Crash===
+
===Not starting===
{{ii}} Sometimes the game crashes with an error about MSVCR90.dll.
+
====Generic startup crash====
 +
The issues are one of the following:
  
{{Fixbox|1=
+
* Crashed immediately
{{Fixbox/fix|Delete save folder|ref={{cn|date=July 2016}}}}
+
* A black screen for a few seconds, then crash
# Go to <code>{{p|userprofile}}\Documents\Bioware</code>
+
* Only the intro plays
# Delete the <code>Save</code> folder.
 
}}
 
  
===Startup Crash 2===
+
Try the fix for the MSVCR90.dll error fix below.
This error message may appear on startup:<ref>{{Refurl|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150915131336/http://forum.bioware.com/topic/255430-crash-on-startup/page-2#entry7645163|title=Crash on startup - The BioWare Forum|date=2016-8-17}}</ref>
 
:
 
  Problem signature:
 
  Problem Event Name:    BEX
 
  Application Name:    MassEffect3.exe
 
  Application Version:    1.1.5427.4
 
  Application Timestamp:    4f46d052
 
  Fault Module Name:    awc.dll
 
  Fault Module Version:    3.2.4.6
 
  Fault Module Timestamp:    4ee2521d
 
  Exception Offset:    0008342f
 
  Exception Code:    c0000417
 
  Exception Data:    00000000
 
  OS Version:    6.1.7601.2.1.0.768.3
 
  Locale ID:    1033
 
  Additional Information 1:    636e
 
  Additional Information 2:    636ed4ad6e2ce5a3e01564e40133fee8
 
  Additional Information 3:    61e2
 
  Additional Information 4:    61e20e96bfcd8b3479be5a6b63429556
 
  
Going into the folder <code>C:\Program Files (x86)\Bioware\Mass Effect 3\Binaries\Win32\</code> and remove or rename the "atiags.dll" may fix this issue.
+
====Startup MSVCR90.dll error====
  
===Crash on From Ashes DLC===
+
The game crashes with an error regarding {{file|MSVCR90.dll}}. Although this indicates a problem with VC++, the cause can also be corrupt saves/settings.
{{Fixbox|1=
 
{{Fixbox/fix|Crash on From Ashes DLC}}
 
At Eden Prime, shortly after watching the cutscene for the first pod, the player crashes.
 
  
* To fix this, access the second pod first, and then the first pod.
+
{{Fixbox|description=Check for corrupt saves/settings|ref=<ref>{{Refurl|url=https://answers.ea.com/t5/Mass-Effect-3/Mass-Effect-3-crashes-on-start/m-p/5608426/highlight/true#M22589|title=answers.ea.com|date=9 June 2023}}</ref>|fix=
* There is a second way to fix this so you can watch the vids in order: And that is right after the first vid has done playing start pressing your escape button a few times.
+
# Go to {{folder|{{p|userprofile\Documents}}\Bioware}}.
 +
# Rename the {{folder|Mass Effect 3}} folder to {{folder|Mass Effect 3 backup}}.
 +
# Try starting the game again
 +
# If it does work, try to restoring the old saves:
 +
## Delete the {{folder|Saves}} subfolder from the new {{folder|Mass Effect 3}} folder.
 +
## Copy the {{folder|Saves}} subfolder from the backup.
 +
# If this fails, then the saves are corrupt. Try restoring the last save from Origin:
 +
## Open Origin > Game Properties > Cloud Saves
 +
## Click Restore Saves
 
}}
 
}}
  
===Retail DVD Install Issue===
+
====Startup BEX/APPCRASH error====
Some users experience issues installing Mass Effect 3 from a retail disc. After starting the install process and entering the product key, an error message claiming it is not a valid Mass Effect 3 serial number appears. Despite this, Mass Effect 3 will now be activated in your Origin library. Further attempts to run the installation process will still prompt for a product key, and upon entering it will result in an error message stating the key has already been used. It is impossible to continue the install process from this point.
+
{{ii}} A error message about <code>BEX</code> or <code>APPCRASH</code> (with exception code ''c0000417'') when trying to start the game could be displayed.
 +
{{Fixbox|description=Rename atiags.dll|ref=<ref>{{Refurl|url=https://answers.ea.com/t5/Mass-Effect-3/Mass-Effect-3-will-not-launch/td-p/1108260|title=Solved: Mass Effect 3 will not launch - Answer HQ|date=May 2023}}</ref>|fix=
 +
# Browse to {{folder|{{p|game}}\Binaries\Win32}}.
 +
# Rename the file {{file|atiags.dll}} to {{file|atiagsBACKUP.dll}}.
 +
}}
  
There are two possible solutions to this issue. The first and easiest option is to simply download Mass Effect 3 via Origin. However, for those on slower or bandwidth limited internet connections, this may not be a viable option. It is still possible to install from the DVDs using the following workaround:
+
====Modded game not starting====
 +
The game does not start when one or more mods (e.g. Controller Support) have been installed via the third-party mod manager.
  
{{Fixbox|1=
+
{{Fixbox|description=Start Mass Effect 3 from Mod Manager|fix=
{{Fixbox/fix|Retail DVD Install Issue|ref={{cn|date=July 2016}}}}
+
# Open the Mass Effect 3 Mod Manager
# Start downloading Mass Effect 3 via Origin, pause the download and exit Origin.
+
# Click the <code>Start Game</code> button in the bottom right corner
# Delete all files in the Mass Effect 3 subfolder of Origin's game install folder. By Default this is <code>C:\Program Files\Origin Games\Mass Effect 3</code> Also, delete all files in Origin's download cache <code>{{p|programdata}}\Origin\DownloadCache</code>
 
# Copy the file <code>Mass Effect 3.z01</code> from disc 1 and <code>Mass Effect 3.zip</code> from disc 2 to a temporary location on your hard drive.
 
# Extract these files to the Mass Effect 3 folder in Origin's game install folder. Default <code>C:\Program Files\Origin Games\Mass Effect 3</code> (NOTE: Traditional unzipping software such as WinRAR or 7-zip may experience critical errors extracting these files. If this occurs, you can use a program called [http://www.ghisler.com/ Total Commander] to extract them. In Total Commander some error messages will appear, but these can be ignored)
 
# Remove the read-only attribute to these files and folders (Right Click on the folder in Windows, select properties and uncheck the "Read-only" box).
 
# Launch Origin and resume the download. A small download of approximately 60 MB should start to fix missing or broken files. After this, Mass Effect 3 should be fully installed and working.
 
 
}}
 
}}
  
===Origin Install Issue===
+
===Crash on From Ashes DLC===
In some cases where Mass Effect 3 has been downloaded through Origin, upon installation users are met with this error message:
+
{{ii}} At Eden Prime, shortly after watching the cutscene for the first pod, the player crashes.
+
{{Fixbox|description=Method 1: Access the second pod first, and then the first pod.|ref={{cn|date=October 2016}}|fix=
<code>Error: The VC++ runtime redistributable package was not installed successfully. Setup cannot continue.</code>
+
}}
  
In order to solve the issue:
+
{{Fixbox|description=Method 2: Right after the first video is done playing, press the {{key|Escape}} button a few times.|ref={{cn|date=October 2016}}|fix=
 
 
{{Fixbox|1=
 
{{Fixbox/fix|Origin Install Issue|ref={{cn|date=July 2016}}}}
 
#Exit Origin.
 
#Go to the Control Panel and uninstall any 'Microsoft Visual C++ 20XX' packages you may have.
 
#Download both the [https://www.microsoft.com/en-au/download/details.aspx?id=14632 2010 x64] and [https://www.microsoft.com/en-us/download/details.aspx?id=5555 2010 x86] redistributable files from the Microsoft website.
 
#Once both files have downloaded successfully, navigate to Mass Effect 3's install folder, default is <pre>C:\Program Files\Origin Games\Mass Effect 3\__Installer\vc\vc2008sp1\redist\</pre>
 
#Inside that folder, either delete or rename both the vcredist_x64.exe and vcredist_x86.exe and replace them with your newly downloaded versions.
 
#Open Origin and install the game.
 
 
}}
 
}}
  
===Language Fix===
+
===Retail DVD install issue===
If you buy the game on Origin and discover the in-game menu and subtitles are a different language then English, there is a way to correct it;
+
Some users experience issues installing Mass Effect 3 from a retail disc. After starting the install process and entering the product key, an error message claiming it is not a valid Mass Effect 3 serial number appears. Despite this, Mass Effect 3 will now be activated in the Origin/EA App library. Further attempts to run the installation process will still prompt for a product key, and upon entering it will result in an error message stating the key has already been used. It is impossible to continue the install process from this point.
  
{{Fixbox|1=
+
There are two possible solutions to this issue. The first and easiest option is to simply download Mass Effect 3 via Origin/EA App. However, for those on slower or bandwidth-limited Internet connections, this may not be a viable option. It is still possible to install from the DVDs using the following workaround:
{{Fixbox/fix|Language Fix}}
 
  
After you have downloaded and installed the game:
+
{{Fixbox|description=Retail DVD Install Issue|ref={{cn|date=July 2016}}|fix=
# Download the language pack: [http://www.mediafire.com/?w6oj3xgf3lhk40r From MediaFire]
+
# Start downloading Mass Effect 3 via Origin, pause the download and exit Origin.
# *Click Start, Run, and type: <code>Regedit</code>
+
# Delete all files in the {{folder|Mass Effect 3}} subfolder of Origin's game install folder (by default, this is {{folder|{{p|programfiles}}\Origin Games\Mass Effect 3}}). Also, delete all files in Origin's download cache ({{folder|{{p|programdata}}\Origin\DownloadCache}}).
# Go to : <code>{{p|hklm}}\SOFTWARE\{{p|wow64}}\BioWare\Mass Effect 3</code>
+
# Copy the file {{file|Mass Effect 3.z01}} from disc 1 and {{file|Mass Effect 3.zip}} from disc 2 to a temporary location on the hard drive.
*Now change the <code>Locale</code> data to: <code>en_US</code> and change the final part of <code>GDFBinary</code> path to <code>GDFBinary_en_US.dll</code> by right clicking the relevant row and pressing 'edit value'.
+
# Extract these files to the Mass Effect 3 folder in Origin's game install folder (by default, this is {{folder|{{p|programfiles}}\Origin Games\Mass Effect 3}}). Traditional archival software such as WinRAR or 7-Zip may experience critical errors extracting these files; if this occurs, use [https://www.ghisler.com/ Total Commander] to extract them. In Total Commander, some error messages will appear, but these can be ignored.
# After changing these values go to <code>{{p|hklm}}\SOFTWARE\{{p|wow64}}\Origin Games\71402</code>
+
# Remove the read-only attribute to these files and folders.
* Now change the <code>Locale</code> value to <code>en_US</code> by right clicking the relevant row and pressing 'edit value'.
+
# Launch Origin/EA App and resume the download. A small download of approximately 60 MB should start to fix missing or broken files. After this, Mass Effect 3 should be fully installed and working.
 
 
Now replace the <code>CookedPCConsole</code> folder found in <code>Mass Effect 3\BIOGame</code> with the one found in the language pack, and accept all the changes and overwrites.
 
 
 
Finally, delete the <code>BIOGame_RUS.tlk</code> in your <code>Mass Effect 3\BIOGame\CookedPCConsole</code> folder and rename the <code>BIOGame_INT.tlk</code> language file, that you will find in the <code>CookedPCConsole</code> folder '''after''' you have replaced it with the one found in the language pack, to <code>BIOGame_RUS.tlk</code>.
 
 
 
Mass effect 3 is now fully in English.
 
 
}}
 
}}
  
===DLC Error===
+
===DLC error===
{{Fixbox|1=
+
{{ii}} Sometimes the game will have problems loading DLC (both free and paid DLC) and will present an error message stating "Unable to authorize the listed DLC. Please log in to the Alliance Network with the account used to purchase the DLC". This is usually caused by an error during the download.
{{Fixbox/fix|DLC Error}}
+
{{Fixbox|description=Verify/repair the installation|ref={{cn|date=October 2016}}|fix=
Sometimes the game will have problems loading DLC (both free and paid DLC) and will present an error message stating "Unable to authorize the listed DLC. Please log in to the Alliance Network with the account used to purchase the DLC". This is usually caused by an error during the download.  
 
# To solve the error, open Origin and bring up Mass Effect 3's information by clicking the "i" icon below it.
 
# Right click on the DLC causing the error and select "Check for update".
 
# A download should begin to download any missing or broken files.
 
# The DLC should work the next time you launch the game.
 
 
}}
 
}}
  
 
===Unable to save any more games===
 
===Unable to save any more games===
{{Fixbox|1=
+
{{Fixbox|description=Increase 50 save limit|ref=<ref>{{Refurl|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160126233512/http://forum.bioware.com/topic/423060-increasing-me3s-50-save-limit-success|title=Increasing ME3's 50-save Limit - SUCCESS! - The BioWare Forum|date=2016-8-17}}</ref>{{CN|personally untested with actual game. check required|date=July 2016}}|fix=
{{Fixbox/fix|Increase 50 save limit|ref=<ref>{{Refurl|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160126233512/http://forum.bioware.com/topic/423060-increasing-me3s-50-save-limit-success|title=Increasing ME3's 50-save Limit - SUCCESS! - The BioWare Forum|date=2016-8-17}}</ref>{{CN|personally untested with actual game. check required|date=July 2016}}}}
 
 
# Download [http://sourceforge.net/projects/me3explorer/ ME3 Explorer]
 
# Download [http://sourceforge.net/projects/me3explorer/ ME3 Explorer]
 
# Run ME3Explorer and select PCC Editor 2.0 (under ''Developer Tools'')
 
# Run ME3Explorer and select PCC Editor 2.0 (under ''Developer Tools'')
# Provide game executable situated in <code>{{p|game}}\Binaries\MassEffect3.exe</code>
+
# Provide game executable situated in {{file|{{p|game}}\Binaries\MassEffect3.exe}}.
# Go to ''File'' > ''Load'' and open <code>{{p|game}}\BIOGame\CookedPCConsole\SFXGame.pcc</code>
+
# Go to ''File'' > ''Load'' and open {{file|{{p|game}}\BIOGame\CookedPCConsole\SFXGame.pcc}}.
# Choose ''Exports'' tab and scroll down to the 45241 line
+
# Choose ''Exports'' tab and scroll down to the 45242 line
 
# Select it and set ''MaxSaves'' IntProperty to a big number like 999
 
# Select it and set ''MaxSaves'' IntProperty to a big number like 999
 
# Go to ''File'' > ''Save''
 
# Go to ''File'' > ''Save''
 
}}
 
}}
 +
 +
===Namakli: Leviathan ladder bug===
 +
{{ii}} A common ladder glitch (occurs in the second ladder encountered after the bridge raising + banshee fight) may prevent the player from descending.
 +
{{Fixbox|description=Either looking up when approaching the ladder or using the walk-not-run key will solve the issue.}}
  
 
===Importing===
 
===Importing===
====Import Save Game====
+
====Import saved game====
{{Fixbox|1=
+
{{Fixbox|description=Importing saved games|ref={{cn|date=October 2016}}|fix=
{{Fixbox/fix|Import Save Game}}
 
 
{{ii}} For general troubleshooting with importing, please refer to [http://help.ea.com/article/will-i-be-able-to-import-a-save-file-from-steam-into-mass-effect-3 EA's save game import FAQ] and this detailed post about [http://masseffect.livejournal.com/1260952.html modding and save game imports from LiveJournal user bluefall].
 
{{ii}} For general troubleshooting with importing, please refer to [http://help.ea.com/article/will-i-be-able-to-import-a-save-file-from-steam-into-mass-effect-3 EA's save game import FAQ] and this detailed post about [http://masseffect.livejournal.com/1260952.html modding and save game imports from LiveJournal user bluefall].
 
}}
 
}}
  
====Import From Mass Effect 2 Folder====
+
====Import from Mass Effect 2 folder====
{{Fixbox|1=
 
{{Fixbox/fix|Import From Mass Effect 2 Folder}}
 
 
{{ii}} Mass Effect 3 does not use an import save game data in the same way that one could import save game data from [[Mass Effect]] to [[Mass Effect 2]]. Instead, it detects an existing Mass Effect 2 save games folder (as if Mass Effect 2 was installed and completed). Therefore there should be no issue as long as the same computer used to complete Mass Effect 2 is used to start a new game in Mass Effect 3.
 
{{ii}} Mass Effect 3 does not use an import save game data in the same way that one could import save game data from [[Mass Effect]] to [[Mass Effect 2]]. Instead, it detects an existing Mass Effect 2 save games folder (as if Mass Effect 2 was installed and completed). Therefore there should be no issue as long as the same computer used to complete Mass Effect 2 is used to start a new game in Mass Effect 3.
}}
 
  
====Import Without Reinstalling====
+
====Import without reinstalling====
{{Fixbox|1=
+
To import a Mass Effect 2 save file from an old computer to the one in which Mass Effect 3 is currently installed, copy the old career folders to: {{folder|{{p|userprofile\Documents}}\Bioware\Mass Effect 2\Save}}.
{{Fixbox/fix|Import Without Reinstalling|ref=<ref>http://www.masseffect2saves.com/import.php</ref>}}
 
To import a Mass Effect 2 save file from an old computer to the one in which Mass Effect 3 is currently installed, copy your old career folders to: <code>{{p|userprofile}}\Documents\Bioware\Mass Effect 2\Save\</code>
 
}}
 
  
====Lost Old Save Game====
+
====Lost old save game====
{{Fixbox|1=
+
{{ii}} Old save games can be replaced by going to [http://www.masseffect2saves.com/ Mass Effect 2 Saves], which is a repository of Mass Effect 2 save games with various playthroughs which can be imported into Mass Effect 3.
{{Fixbox/fix|Lost Old Save Game}}
 
{{ii}} One can replace an old save game by going to [http://www.masseffect2saves.com/ Mass Effect 2 Saves], which is a repository of Mass Effect 2 save games with various playthroughs which can be imported into Mass Effect 3.
 
}}
 
  
====Save Game Not Detected====
+
====Save game not detected====
If a Mass Effect 2 save game is not detected, there are currently some methods to fix this.
+
{{Fixbox|description=Rename save game folder|ref={{cn|date=October 2016}}|fix=
 
 
{{Fixbox|1=
 
{{Fixbox/fix|Rename Save Game Folder}}
 
 
{{ii}} A save editor may have changed the folder structure. Change this back to allow Mass Effect 3 to autodetect correctly.
 
{{ii}} A save editor may have changed the folder structure. Change this back to allow Mass Effect 3 to autodetect correctly.
# Go to <code>{{p|userprofile}}\Documents\Bioware\Mass Effect 2\Save\</code>
+
# Go to {{folder|{{p|userprofile\Documents}}\Bioware\Mass Effect 2\Save}}.
# Change the folder name to <code>Name_12_Class_012610</code>
+
# Change the folder name to {{folder|Name_12_Class_012610}}.
 
}}
 
}}
{{Fixbox|1=
+
{{Fixbox|description=Edit GamerSettings.ini|ref={{cn|date=July 2016}}|fix=
{{Fixbox/fix|Edit GamerSettings.ini|ref={{cn|date=July 2016}}}}
+
# Go to the [[#Game data|configuration file(s) location]].
# Open {{file|[[#Configuration file(s) location|GamerSettings.ini]]}}
+
# Open {{file|GamerSettings.ini}}.
# Add your Mass Effect 2 saves folder location next to <code>Location=</code>
+
# Add the Mass Effect 2 saves folder location next to <code>Location=</code>
 
:'''Example:'''
 
:'''Example:'''
 
<pre>
 
<pre>
Line 586: Line 701:
 
Location=%USERPROFILE%\Documents\BioWare\Mass Effect 2\Save\
 
Location=%USERPROFILE%\Documents\BioWare\Mass Effect 2\Save\
 
</pre>
 
</pre>
{{ii}} Make sure that the above location is the correct location of your save games.
+
{{ii}} Make sure that the above location is the correct location of the saved games.
 
}}
 
}}
  
 
====Multiplayer game using "Different Version"====
 
====Multiplayer game using "Different Version"====
{{ii}} When attempting to join a game an error will display that you cannot join due to the executable being version 1.6 instead of 1.5
+
{{ii}} When attempting to join a friend's game, an error will display that it can not be joined due to the game versions being different.
 +
{{ii}} This issue seems to only affect some users in the UK. This executable has not been seen outside of that region.
 +
 
 +
{{Fixbox|description=Downgrade Mass Effect 3|fix=
 +
#Follow directions from [https://me3tweaks.com/forums/viewtopic.php?f=5&t=20 this forum post].
 +
}}
  
{{Fixbox|1=
+
===Textures become black as you approach them===
{{Fixbox/fix|Replace exe file if wrong version|ref={{cn|date=March 2016}}}}
+
{{ii}} [https://www.nexusmods.com/masseffect3/mods/363 A Lot of Textures (ALOT)] may have been applied to the game in the past. Apply it again or use one of the fixes below.
#Go to <code>{{p|game}}\Mass Effect 3\Binaries\Win32\</code>
+
{{Fixbox|description=Launch the game through [https://www.nexusmods.com/masseffect/mods/149 ME3Tweaks Mod Manager]}}
#Right click {{file|MassEffect3.exe}}, select properties, choose the details tab, under "file version" it should start with 1.5.xxxx.xxx
+
{{Fixbox|description=Set the Texture LODs to Vanilla with LOD Switcher in [https://www.nexusmods.com/masseffect3/mods/894 ALOTInstaller's] Settings}}
#If not, make a backup of that executable and replace the original with this [https://drive.google.com/file/d/0B9CHL-koI6D5cXc5aHNnUlZpRnc/view 1.5 version].
+
{{Fixbox|description=Delete configuration files
 +
|fix=
 +
# Open {{folder|{{p|userprofile\Documents}}\BioWare\Mass Effect 3\BIOGame}}.
 +
# Delete the {{folder|Config}} folder.
 +
# Launch the game.
 
}}
 
}}
 +
 +
===Ashley glitches after activating Marksman power===
 +
{{Fixbox|description=Use [https://www.nexusmods.com/masseffect3/mods/927 True Ashley Marksman Fix] mod}}
  
 
==Other information==
 
==Other information==
 
===API===
 
===API===
 
{{API
 
{{API
|direct3d versions      = 9
+
|direct3d versions      = 9.0c
 
|direct3d notes        =  
 
|direct3d notes        =  
 
|directdraw versions    =  
 
|directdraw versions    =  
Line 614: Line 741:
 
|mantle support        =  
 
|mantle support        =  
 
|mantle support notes  =  
 
|mantle support notes  =  
|vulkan support        =  
+
|vulkan versions        =  
|vulkan support notes   =  
+
|vulkan notes           =  
 
|dos modes              =  
 
|dos modes              =  
 
|dos modes notes        =  
 
|dos modes notes        =  
 
|shader model versions  = 3
 
|shader model versions  = 3
 
|shader model notes    =  
 
|shader model notes    =  
|64-bit executable     = false
+
|windows 32-bit exe    = true
|64-bit executable notes=  
+
|windows 64-bit exe    = false
 +
|windows arm app        = unknown
 +
|windows exe notes      =
 +
|macos intel 32-bit app =
 +
|macos intel 64-bit app =
 +
|macos arm app          = unknown
 +
|macos app notes        =
 +
|linux 32-bit executable=  
 +
|linux 64-bit executable=
 +
|linux arm app          = unknown
 +
|linux executable notes =  
 
}}
 
}}
  
Line 627: Line 764:
 
{{Middleware
 
{{Middleware
 
|physics          = PhysX
 
|physics          = PhysX
|physics notes    =  
+
|physics notes    = 2.8.3
 
|audio            = Speex, Wwise
 
|audio            = Speex, Wwise
 
|audio notes      =  
 
|audio notes      =  
Line 635: Line 772:
 
|input notes      =  
 
|input notes      =  
 
|cutscenes        = Bink Video
 
|cutscenes        = Bink Video
|cutscenes notes  =  
+
|cutscenes notes  = 1.9p
 
|multiplayer      =  
 
|multiplayer      =  
 
|multiplayer notes=  
 
|multiplayer notes=  
Line 641: Line 778:
  
 
===Ambient occlusion===
 
===Ambient occlusion===
{{ii}} Default NVIDIA driver profile does not have compatibility bits to enable ambient occlusion for the game. But it can be enabled by tweaking the driver profile settings.
+
{{ii}} Default Nvidia driver profile does not have compatibility bits to enable ambient occlusion for the game. But it can be enabled by tweaking the driver profile settings.
  
{{Fixbox|1=
+
{{Fixbox|description=Use Nvidia Inspector (Nvidia only)|ref=<ref>{{Refurl|url=https://forums.guru3d.com/threads/hbao-compatibility-flags-thread.387114/page-12#post-4795599|title=HBAO+ Compatibility Flags Thread - guru3D Forums|date=May 2023}}</ref>|fix=
{{Fixbox/fix|Use NVIDIA Inspector (NVIDIA only)|ref={{cn|date=July 2016}}}}
+
# Download and launch [[Nvidia Profile Inspector]]
# Download and launch [http://www.guru3d.com/files_details/nvidia_inspector_download.html NVIDIA Inspector]
 
# Open up '''Driver Profile Settings'''
 
 
# Choose '''Mass Effect 3''' from the profile list
 
# Choose '''Mass Effect 3''' from the profile list
# Change <code>Ambient Occlusion compatibility</code> to <code>0x00000020</code><ref>[http://forums.guru3d.com/showthread.php?t=387114 HBAO+ Compatibility Flags Thread - Guru3D.com Forums]</ref>
+
# Change <code>Ambient Occlusion compatibility</code> to <code>0x00000020</code>
 
# Change <code>Ambient Occlusion usage</code> to <code>Enabled</code>
 
# Change <code>Ambient Occlusion usage</code> to <code>Enabled</code>
 
# Change <code>Ambient Occlusion setting</code> to <code>Performance</code>, <code>Quality</code> or <code>High quality</code>
 
# Change <code>Ambient Occlusion setting</code> to <code>Performance</code>, <code>Quality</code> or <code>High quality</code>
 
# Apply changes.
 
# Apply changes.
 
}}
 
}}
 +
 +
===Modding===
 +
* [https://www.nexusmods.com/masseffect3 Mass Effect 3 Nexus] - Has a decent amount of mods for Mass Effect 3.
 +
* [https://me3tweaks.com/mods/ ME3Tweaks] - Hosts mods, guides, and tools for modding the Mass Effect trilogy.
 +
* [https://me3tweaks.com/modmanager/ Mod Manager] - A tool for handling installation and development of mods
 +
* [https://github.com/ME3Tweaks/ME3Explorer/releases ME3Explorer] - A multi-tool software for modding Mass Effect 3. Also includes a Coalesced.bin editor for further tweaking.
 +
 +
===HD Texture Pack===
 +
{{ii}} [https://www.nexusmods.com/masseffect3/mods/363/ A Lot of Textures (ALOT)] is a fanmade re-texture mod aiming to bring Mass Effect 3's textures to today's standards, replacing around 3000 textures with high-resolution variants.
 +
 +
===HD Video Pack===
 +
{{ii}} [https://www.nexusmods.com/masseffect3/mods/768 ME3 Opening Remaster] improves the opening cinematic of Mass Effect 3.
 +
{{ii}} [https://www.nexusmods.com/masseffect3/mods/773 A Lot of Videos (ALOV)] is a fanmade mod that increases the detail & resolution of Mass Effect 3's videos to today's standards.
  
 
===Mods===
 
===Mods===
* [http://www.nexusmods.com/masseffect3 Mass Effect 3 Nexus] - One of the most popular modding communities, has decent amount of mods for Mass Effect 3.
+
* [https://www.nexusmods.com/masseffect3/mods/173 Extended Final Anderson Conversation] - Restores (mostly) the full final conversation with Anderson that was severely shortened in the released game.
* [http://sourceforge.net/projects/me3explorer ME3 Explorer] - A multi-tool software for modding Mass Effect 3. Also includes a Coalesced.bin editor for further tweaking.
+
* [https://www.nexusmods.com/masseffect3/mods/350 Expanded Galaxy Mod] - Adds a huge number of changes, both large and small, to improve the overall gameplay of the game, giving the user a more personalized experience.
* [http://social.bioware.com/forum/Mass-Effect-3/Fan-Creations/-ME3-MOD-High-Resolution-textures--v15-illumination-MOD--3D-Fix-9735492-1.html smarteck's Mods] - Has lots of HD retextures for improving image quality.
+
* [https://www.nexusmods.com/masseffect3/mods/995 Dynamic Weapon Lowering] - DWL ensures that Shepard raises or lowers their weapon based on whether they are inside or outside of combat. The system intelligently monitors your current gameplay, and automatically adjusts the position of your arms and weapon in a timely manner.
 +
* [https://www.nexusmods.com/masseffect3/mods/996 No low hp blood drops on screen] - This mod removes blood drops that cover screen when health decrease in ME3.
 +
* [https://www.nexusmods.com/masseffect3/mods/678 Ark Mod] - Additional Hazard maps and an entirely new N7 mission.
 +
* [https://www.nexusmods.com/masseffect3/mods/456 Individual Cooldowns Mod (ME1 Style)] - Disables the global cooldown of powers, making them all have individual cooldowns just like ME1 (and the mod for ME2).
 +
* [https://www.moddb.com/mods/mehem-the-mass-effect-3-happy-ending-mod/ MEHEM - The Mass Effect (3) Happy Ending Mod] - Replaces the "controversial" endings with new alternative endings.
 +
* [https://www.moddb.com/mods/citadel-epilogue-mod Citadel Epilogue Mod] - A mod that makes the Citadel DLC play like an epilogue or simply throw a party after you blow up the reapers.
 +
* [https://www.nexusmods.com/masseffect3/mods/846 Ambient Audio Overhaul Mod] Makes each level in Mass Effect 3 more immersive, unique and rich in audio by restoring all ambient SFX that was either accidentally cut or inaudible.
 +
* [https://www.nexusmods.com/masseffect3/mods/245 Restored Zaeed Conversation] - This mod alters the conversation with Zaeed in the Holding area so that all of his dialogue can be heard.
 +
* [https://www.nexusmods.com/masseffect3/mods/632 Same-Gender Romances for ME3] - This mod fixes various issues with imported same-gender romances with Ashley, Kaidan, Tali, and Thane, focusing on immersion and restoring unused content.
  
 
==System requirements==
 
==System requirements==
Line 677: Line 833:
 
|recRAM  = 2 GB (XP)<br />4 GB (Vista, 7)
 
|recRAM  = 2 GB (XP)<br />4 GB (Vista, 7)
 
|recHD    =  
 
|recHD    =  
|recGPU  = ATI Radeon HD 4850  
+
|recGPU  = ATI Radeon HD 4850
 
|recGPU2  = Nvidia GeForce 9800 GT
 
|recGPU2  = Nvidia GeForce 9800 GT
 
|recGPU3  = Nvidia GeForce GTX 550 Ti
 
|recGPU3  = Nvidia GeForce GTX 550 Ti
 
|recVRAM  = 512 MB
 
|recVRAM  = 512 MB
 +
|notes    = {{ii}} AMD video cards below minimum system requirements: Radeon HD 3200, HD 3300 and HD 4350.
 +
{{ii}} Nvidia video cards below minimum system requirements: GeForce 9300, 8500, 8400 and 8300.
 +
{{--}} S3 video cards are not supported.
 
}}
 
}}
{{ii}} AMD video cards below minimum system requirements: Radeon HD 3200, HD 3300, HD 4350
 
{{ii}} Nvidia video cards below minimum system requirements: GeForce 9300, 8500, 8400, and 8300
 
{{--}} S3 video cards are not supported
 
  
 
{{References}}
 
{{References}}

Latest revision as of 11:53, 6 April 2024

This page may require cleanup to meet basic quality standards. The specific problem is: .ini capabilities unexplored, tedious or too old fixes need a check. You can help by modifying the article. The discussion page may contain useful suggestions.
Mass Effect 3
Mass Effect 3 cover
Developers
BioWare
Multiplayer Psyonix[1]
Publishers
Electronic Arts
Engines
Unreal Engine 3
Release dates
Windows March 6, 2012
Reception
Metacritic 89
IGDB 91
Taxonomy
Monetization One-time game purchase, DLC, Cross-game bonus, Subscription gaming service
Microtransactions Currency, Loot box
Modes Singleplayer, Multiplayer
Pacing Real-time
Perspectives Third-person
Controls Direct control
Genres ARPG, Shooter
Art styles Realistic
Themes LGBTQ, Sci-fi, Space
Series Mass Effect
Mass Effect 3 on HowLongToBeat
Mass Effect 3 on IGDB
Mass Effect 3 guide on StrategyWiki
Mass Effect 3 on MobyGames
Mass Effect 3 on Wikipedia
Mass Effect
Mass Effect 2008
Mass Effect 2 2010
Mass Effect 3 2012
Mass Effect: Andromeda 2017
Mass Effect Legendary Edition 2021

Mass Effect 3 is a singleplayer and multiplayer third-person ARPG and shooter game in the Mass Effect series.

General information

Steam Community Discussions

Availability

Source DRM Notes Keys OS
Retail
Origin
Executable on disk contains SecuROM DRM Release Control
Windows
Microsoft Store
Microsoft Store
Origin
N7 Digital Deluxe Edition. Included exclusively with Xbox Game Pass for PC as part of its version of EA Play.
Windows
Origin
Origin
N7 Digital Deluxe Edition. Included with EA Play. Digital Deluxe also available.
Windows
Steam
Icon overlay.png
Origin
N7 Digital Deluxe Edition. Included with EA Play (Steam).
Windows
Gamesplanet logo.svg (unavailable)
Origin
Mass Effect Trilogy. Includes Mass Effect and Mass Effect 2.
Windows
Humble Store (unavailable)
Origin
Mass Effect Trilogy
Windows
All versions require Origin DRM.

Version differences

The N7 Digital Deluxe Edition includes the base game, all DLC (singleplayer and multiplayer) and digital goodies (soundtrack, artbook, *Genesis 2* comic).

Monetization

DLC can be downloaded through Origin by right-clicking Mass Effect 3 and selecting View Game Details. The Final Hours Of Mass Effect 3, soundtrack, and artbook can be downloaded for free from this EA page.
All DLC is free on Origin/EA Desktop as of July 13, 2022.[2] The DLC Bundle is free as of August 15, 2022. Steam later followed in May 5, 2023.
This game has in-game microtransactions (not listed below).
Type Notes
Cross-game bonus Owning Battlefield 3 on EA App will unlock a multiplayer character class.
DLC The DLC includes story missions and items.
One-time game purchase The game requires an upfront purchase to access.
Subscription gaming service Available via EA Play.

DLC and expansion packs

Name Notes
Alternate Appearance Pack 1
Windows
Citadel
Windows
Earth Multiplayer Expansion Free
Windows
Extended Cut Free
Windows
Firefight Pack
Windows
From Ashes Included in Digital Deluxe
Windows
Genesis 2
Windows
Groundside Resistance Pack
Windows
Leviathan
Windows
M90 Indra Sniper Rifle Redeemable through Alienware Promo or Included with Firefight Pack
Windows
Mass Effect Trilogy Art Included in Mass Effect Trilogy bundle
Windows
N7 Collector's Edition Content Included in Digital Deluxe
Windows
Omega
Windows
Reckoner Knight Armor Originally able to be obtained by logging in to account in Kingdoms of Amalur: Reckoning demo[3] (The demo is still available on Steam but the servers are shut down)
Windows
Reckoning Multiplayer Expansion Free
Windows
Rebellion Multiplayer Expansion Free
Windows
Resurgence Multiplayer Expansion Free
Windows
Retaliation Multiplayer Expansion Free
Windows

Essential improvements

Skip intro videos

Use the -nostartupmovies command line argument[4]
Modify ME3_sig_logo in bioengine.ini[5]
  1. Download and run ME3 Coalesced Utility.
  2. In the utility, open Coalesced.bin from <path-to-game>\BIOGame\CookedPCConsole>
  3. Go to the bioengine.ini > fullscreenmovie > startupmovies section.
  4. Add a semicolon in front of the ME3_sig_logo line like so: ;ME3_sig_logo
  5. Save the file and exit the utility.

Bug Fixes

Unofficial Mass Effect 3 Patch

Various bug fixes, visual corrections and QoL improvements for Mass Effect 3.
Also fixed the Ashley Marksman bug.
May have cause performance issue for low-end hardware.[6]

Interface Scaling Mod

Scales up PC platform-specific HUD elements to the size they were on consoles, which is natively set to 720p.
Works both in singleplayer and multiplayer.

Project Variety

A major bug fix and overhaul mod.
Compatible with numerous mods. See here.

True Ashley Marksman Fix

Fix for Ashley when using the Marksman Skill.
Not required if UME3P & Fix Pack is installed, but can still be used.

Game data

Configuration file(s) location

System Location
Windows %USERPROFILE%\Documents\BioWare\Mass Effect 3\BIOGame\Config\
Microsoft Store
Steam Play (Linux) <SteamLibrary-folder>/steamapps/compatdata/1238020/pfx/[Note 1]

Save game data location

System Location
Windows %USERPROFILE%\Documents\BioWare\Mass Effect 3\Save\
Microsoft Store
Steam Play (Linux) <SteamLibrary-folder>/steamapps/compatdata/1238020/pfx/[Note 1]
DLC files are saved in <path-to-game>\BIOGame\DLC; an explanation of the folder names and which DLC they represent can be found here.
Mass Effect 3 can optionally import save games from Mass Effect 2, which in turn can import save games from Mass Effect.

Save game cloud syncing

System Native Notes
Origin
OneDrive
Requires enabling backup of the Documents folder in OneDrive on all computers.
Steam Cloud
Xbox Cloud

Video

In-game general settings.
In-game general settings.
In-game narrative settings.
In-game narrative settings.
In-game video settings.
In-game video settings.

Graphics feature State WSGF Notes
Widescreen resolution
Vert-, use Flawless Widescreen or Widescreen Fixer.
Multi-monitor
Use Flawless Widescreen or Widescreen Fixer.
Ultra-widescreen
Use Flawless Widescreen[7] or Widescreen Fixer.
4K Ultra HD
Vert-, use Flawless Widescreen or Widescreen Fixer, and Interface Scaling Mod.
Field of view (FOV)
Default is 75°. See Field of view (FOV).
Windowed
Borderless fullscreen windowed
If the taskbar appears on top, set the game to Fullscreen and then back to Window (No Border) to eliminate it.[8]
Anisotropic filtering (AF)
The level of filtering can be adjusted in MassEffect3Config.exe.
Anti-aliasing (AA)
FXAA only. For other options see Anti-aliasing (AA).
Vertical sync (Vsync)
Forced on by default. To disable see Vertical sync (Vsync).
60 FPS
Cutscenes are capped at 30FPS.
120+ FPS
See High frame rate.
High dynamic range display (HDR)
See the glossary page for potential alternatives.
Several graphic settings cannot be changed in-game.

Field of view (FOV)

Use third-party mods
  1. Flawless Widescreen
  2. Widescreen Fixer
  3. Mass Effect 3 FoV Mod.

Notes

Widescreen Fixer affects FOV during cutscenes.
Set camera FOV (doesn't affect cutscenes)[9]
  1. Download and run ME3 Coalesced Utility.
  2. In the utility, open Coalesced.bin from <path-to-game>\BIOGame\CookedPCConsole.
  3. Go to the bioinput.ini > sfxgame > sfxgamemodedefault > bindings section.
  4. Add this custom binding via empty line at the bottom of bindings list.
    ( Name="F1", Command="set SFXGame.SFXCameraMode FOV 90" )
    • Change 90 to the desired FOV.
  5. Save the file and exit the utility.
  6. Press F1 once each gaming session while being able to control Shepard, i.e. not in a cutscene or menu.

Notes

Only works in singleplayer. Activating this fix while in singeplayer then returning to the main menu and attempting a multiplayer match will result in disconnects. To remedy this, restart the game, since that also resets the FOV.
Use ThirteenAG's Mass Effect Trilogy FOV Fix
  1. Download the archive from here.
  2. Download and extract the archive to the game directory, where the exe is located (Binaries or Binaries\Win32)

Notes

Automatically corrects in-game FOV (Hor+)
Works with Mass Effect 1 and Mass Effect 2
16:9 only[citation needed]

High frame rate

Change frame rate smoothing[citation needed]
  1. Go to the configuration file(s) location.
  2. Open GamerSettings.ini.
  3. Under [SystemSettings], add the line SmoothFrameRate=FALSE.
  4. Save file.
For more information, see the Unreal Engine 3 page.
High FPS affects the following:
  • enemy AI will be more accurate
  • shields will regenerate slower
  • powers can not be used from cover, requiring the player to lean out manually

Anti-aliasing (AA)

By default the game only has FXAA for anti-aliasing. But is possible to force other anti-aliasing types.
Use Nvidia Inspector (Nvidia only)[citation needed]
  1. Download and launch Nvidia Profile Inspector.
  2. Choose Mass Effect 3 from the profile list
MSAA
  • Change Antialiasing - Mode to Override any application setting
  • Change Antialiasing - Setting to 4x [4x Multisampling] or 8xQ [8x Multisampling] or 16xQ [16x CSAA (8 color + 8 cv samples)]
  • (Optional) Change Antialiasing - Transparency Multisampling to Enabled to enable transparency multisampling. Or you can change Antialiasing - Transparency Supersampling to one of the supersampling options to enable transparency supersampling.
SGSSAA
  • Change Antialiasing compatibility to 0x080000C1[10][11][12]
  • Change Antialiasing - Mode to Override any application setting
  • Change Antialiasing - Setting to 4x [4x Multisampling] or 8xQ [8x Multisampling]
  • Change Antialiasing - Transparency Supersampling to 4x Sparse Grid Supersampling or 8x Sparse Grid Supersampling
  1. Apply changes.

Notes

Default compatibility bits for anti-aliasing (0x080100C5) should be enough for MSAA. Therefore there is no need to change them when using MSAA.
If you are a SLI user and using SGSSAA you might want to change SLI compatibility bits to 0x42502005 for improved performance.[12]
If forcing AA causes video stutter, activating MSI Afterburner's OSD can fix it.

Vertical sync (Vsync)

Disable VSync[13]
  1. Go to the configuration file(s) location.
  2. Open GamerSettings.ini.
  3. Add the line UseVSync=False under the [SystemSettings] section.
  4. Save the changes.

Input

In-game general control settings.
In-game general control settings.
In-game key map settings.
In-game key map settings.

Controller support

Native Xbox 360 UI Controller Support
Barebones controller support[14]
  1. Download the replacement Coalesced.bin.
  2. Move it to <path-to-game>\BIOGame\CookedPCConsole, replacing the existing file.
  3. Connect the controller and launch Mass Effect 3. The controller should now work.

Notes

The mouse is still required in menus and conversations.
If other changes were made to Coalesced.bin, they will need to be redone.
This method should not be mixed with the native controller mods, as it will break them.

Simultaneous mouse and joystick support

Enable joystick move to be used with mouse[15]
  1. Download ME3-Coalesced Utility.
  2. In the utility, open Coalesced.bin from <path-to-game>\BIOGame\CookedPCConsole.
  3. Go to [Bioengine.ini > winDrv > windowsClient] and then change allowjoystickInput from 0 to 1.
  4. Go to [bioinput.ini > SFXGame > SFXGameModeBase > Bindings] and paste in the following, and then save and exit program:
( Name="XboxTypeS_LeftX",Command="Axis aStrafe Speed=1.0 DeadZone=0.3")
( Name="XboxTypeS_LeftY",Command="Axis aBaseY Speed=1.0 DeadZone=0.3")
( Name="XboxTypeS_RightX",Command="Axis aTurn Speed=0.2 DeadZone=0.3")
( Name="XboxTypeS_RightY",Command="Axis aLookup Speed=0.2 DeadZone=0.3")

Audio

In-game audio settings.
In-game audio settings.

Audio feature State Notes
Separate volume controls
Surround sound
5.0[16][17]
Subtitles
Closed captions
Mute on focus lost
EAX support
See Surround sound notes.
Royalty free audio
Combination of original and licensed music.

Localizations

Language UI Audio Sub Notes
English
Czech
Fan translation, Download
French
German
Hungarian
Fan translation.
Italian
Polish
Brazilian Portuguese
Translation.
Russian
Spanish

Network

In-game online settings.
In-game online settings.

Multiplayer types

Type Native Players Notes
LAN play
4 Co-op
Use ME3 Private Server Emulator/LAN.
Online play
4 Co-op
Multiplayer activity and progress affects the singleplayer storyline. Note that the Extended Cut DLC modifies the game such that playing the multiplayer is not required for the "best" singleplayer story ending.

Connection types

Ports

Protocol Port(s) and/or port range(s)
UDP 5659, 6000
Universal Plug and Play (UPnP) support status is unknown.

VR support

3D modes State Notes
Nvidia 3D Vision
See Helix Mod: Mass Effect 3.
TriDef 3D
vorpX
G3D
Officially supported game, see official vorpx game list.

Issues unresolved

"Tuchanka: Turian Platoon" mission doesn't progress in the last section

If the two Harvester enemies are killed before they should be then the one in the last section of the mission will never appear causing the mission to be stuck[18][19]
Restart the mission and don't kill the first two Harvester enemies[20]

Issues fixed

GeForce.com has created a comprehensive guide for fixing issues in this game.

64bit Version Error Message

"Incompatible Windows Version" Error Message[citation needed]

The following error message may appear:

The version of this file is not compatible with the version of Windows you're running. Check your computer's system information to see whether you need a x86 (32-bit) or x64 (64-bit) version of the program, and then contact the software publisher.
  • Selecting Mass Effect 3 in Origin and clicking 'repair install' and 'check for update' may fix this issue.

Mouse Causing Stuttering

Mouse movement may cause slowdowns. This can be fixed by disabling Origin overlay within the game.

Mouse Causing Stuttering[citation needed]
  1. Click on the gear in the top right.
  2. Click "Settings".
  3. Click the "In Game" tab.
  4. Make sure "Enable Origin In Game" is disabled

Not starting

Generic startup crash

The issues are one of the following:

  • Crashed immediately
  • A black screen for a few seconds, then crash
  • Only the intro plays

Try the fix for the MSVCR90.dll error fix below.

Startup MSVCR90.dll error

The game crashes with an error regarding MSVCR90.dll. Although this indicates a problem with VC++, the cause can also be corrupt saves/settings.

Check for corrupt saves/settings[21]
  1. Go to %USERPROFILE%\Documents\Bioware.
  2. Rename the Mass Effect 3 folder to Mass Effect 3 backup.
  3. Try starting the game again
  4. If it does work, try to restoring the old saves:
    1. Delete the Saves subfolder from the new Mass Effect 3 folder.
    2. Copy the Saves subfolder from the backup.
  5. If this fails, then the saves are corrupt. Try restoring the last save from Origin:
    1. Open Origin > Game Properties > Cloud Saves
    2. Click Restore Saves

Startup BEX/APPCRASH error

A error message about BEX or APPCRASH (with exception code c0000417) when trying to start the game could be displayed.
Rename atiags.dll[22]
  1. Browse to <path-to-game>\Binaries\Win32.
  2. Rename the file atiags.dll to atiagsBACKUP.dll.

Modded game not starting

The game does not start when one or more mods (e.g. Controller Support) have been installed via the third-party mod manager.

Start Mass Effect 3 from Mod Manager
  1. Open the Mass Effect 3 Mod Manager
  2. Click the Start Game button in the bottom right corner

Crash on From Ashes DLC

At Eden Prime, shortly after watching the cutscene for the first pod, the player crashes.
Method 1: Access the second pod first, and then the first pod.[citation needed]
Method 2: Right after the first video is done playing, press the Esc button a few times.[citation needed]

Retail DVD install issue

Some users experience issues installing Mass Effect 3 from a retail disc. After starting the install process and entering the product key, an error message claiming it is not a valid Mass Effect 3 serial number appears. Despite this, Mass Effect 3 will now be activated in the Origin/EA App library. Further attempts to run the installation process will still prompt for a product key, and upon entering it will result in an error message stating the key has already been used. It is impossible to continue the install process from this point.

There are two possible solutions to this issue. The first and easiest option is to simply download Mass Effect 3 via Origin/EA App. However, for those on slower or bandwidth-limited Internet connections, this may not be a viable option. It is still possible to install from the DVDs using the following workaround:

Retail DVD Install Issue[citation needed]
  1. Start downloading Mass Effect 3 via Origin, pause the download and exit Origin.
  2. Delete all files in the Mass Effect 3 subfolder of Origin's game install folder (by default, this is %PROGRAMFILES%\Origin Games\Mass Effect 3). Also, delete all files in Origin's download cache (%PROGRAMDATA%\Origin\DownloadCache).
  3. Copy the file Mass Effect 3.z01 from disc 1 and Mass Effect 3.zip from disc 2 to a temporary location on the hard drive.
  4. Extract these files to the Mass Effect 3 folder in Origin's game install folder (by default, this is %PROGRAMFILES%\Origin Games\Mass Effect 3). Traditional archival software such as WinRAR or 7-Zip may experience critical errors extracting these files; if this occurs, use Total Commander to extract them. In Total Commander, some error messages will appear, but these can be ignored.
  5. Remove the read-only attribute to these files and folders.
  6. Launch Origin/EA App and resume the download. A small download of approximately 60 MB should start to fix missing or broken files. After this, Mass Effect 3 should be fully installed and working.

DLC error

Sometimes the game will have problems loading DLC (both free and paid DLC) and will present an error message stating "Unable to authorize the listed DLC. Please log in to the Alliance Network with the account used to purchase the DLC". This is usually caused by an error during the download.
Verify/repair the installation[citation needed]

Unable to save any more games

Increase 50 save limit[23][citation needed]
  1. Download ME3 Explorer
  2. Run ME3Explorer and select PCC Editor 2.0 (under Developer Tools)
  3. Provide game executable situated in <path-to-game>\Binaries\MassEffect3.exe.
  4. Go to File > Load and open <path-to-game>\BIOGame\CookedPCConsole\SFXGame.pcc.
  5. Choose Exports tab and scroll down to the 45242 line
  6. Select it and set MaxSaves IntProperty to a big number like 999
  7. Go to File > Save

Namakli: Leviathan ladder bug

A common ladder glitch (occurs in the second ladder encountered after the bridge raising + banshee fight) may prevent the player from descending.
Either looking up when approaching the ladder or using the walk-not-run key will solve the issue.

Importing

Import saved game

Importing saved games[citation needed]
For general troubleshooting with importing, please refer to EA's save game import FAQ and this detailed post about modding and save game imports from LiveJournal user bluefall.

Import from Mass Effect 2 folder

Mass Effect 3 does not use an import save game data in the same way that one could import save game data from Mass Effect to Mass Effect 2. Instead, it detects an existing Mass Effect 2 save games folder (as if Mass Effect 2 was installed and completed). Therefore there should be no issue as long as the same computer used to complete Mass Effect 2 is used to start a new game in Mass Effect 3.

Import without reinstalling

To import a Mass Effect 2 save file from an old computer to the one in which Mass Effect 3 is currently installed, copy the old career folders to: %USERPROFILE%\Documents\Bioware\Mass Effect 2\Save.

Lost old save game

Old save games can be replaced by going to Mass Effect 2 Saves, which is a repository of Mass Effect 2 save games with various playthroughs which can be imported into Mass Effect 3.

Save game not detected

Rename save game folder[citation needed]
A save editor may have changed the folder structure. Change this back to allow Mass Effect 3 to autodetect correctly.
  1. Go to %USERPROFILE%\Documents\Bioware\Mass Effect 2\Save.
  2. Change the folder name to Name_12_Class_012610.
Edit GamerSettings.ini[citation needed]
  1. Go to the configuration file(s) location.
  2. Open GamerSettings.ini.
  3. Add the Mass Effect 2 saves folder location next to Location=
Example:
[SaveGames]
Location=%USERPROFILE%\Documents\BioWare\Mass Effect 2\Save\
Make sure that the above location is the correct location of the saved games.

Multiplayer game using "Different Version"

When attempting to join a friend's game, an error will display that it can not be joined due to the game versions being different.
This issue seems to only affect some users in the UK. This executable has not been seen outside of that region.
Downgrade Mass Effect 3
  1. Follow directions from this forum post.

Textures become black as you approach them

A Lot of Textures (ALOT) may have been applied to the game in the past. Apply it again or use one of the fixes below.
Launch the game through ME3Tweaks Mod Manager
Set the Texture LODs to Vanilla with LOD Switcher in ALOTInstaller's Settings
Delete configuration files
  1. Open %USERPROFILE%\Documents\BioWare\Mass Effect 3\BIOGame.
  2. Delete the Config folder.
  3. Launch the game.

Ashley glitches after activating Marksman power

Use True Ashley Marksman Fix mod

Other information

API

Technical specs Supported Notes
Direct3D 9.0c
Shader Model support 3
Executable 32-bit 64-bit Notes
Windows

Middleware

Middleware Notes
Physics PhysX 2.8.3
Audio Speex, Wwise
Interface Scaleform
Cutscenes Bink Video 1.9p

Ambient occlusion

Default Nvidia driver profile does not have compatibility bits to enable ambient occlusion for the game. But it can be enabled by tweaking the driver profile settings.
Use Nvidia Inspector (Nvidia only)[24]
  1. Download and launch Nvidia Profile Inspector
  2. Choose Mass Effect 3 from the profile list
  3. Change Ambient Occlusion compatibility to 0x00000020
  4. Change Ambient Occlusion usage to Enabled
  5. Change Ambient Occlusion setting to Performance, Quality or High quality
  6. Apply changes.

Modding

  • Mass Effect 3 Nexus - Has a decent amount of mods for Mass Effect 3.
  • ME3Tweaks - Hosts mods, guides, and tools for modding the Mass Effect trilogy.
  • Mod Manager - A tool for handling installation and development of mods
  • ME3Explorer - A multi-tool software for modding Mass Effect 3. Also includes a Coalesced.bin editor for further tweaking.

HD Texture Pack

A Lot of Textures (ALOT) is a fanmade re-texture mod aiming to bring Mass Effect 3's textures to today's standards, replacing around 3000 textures with high-resolution variants.

HD Video Pack

ME3 Opening Remaster improves the opening cinematic of Mass Effect 3.
A Lot of Videos (ALOV) is a fanmade mod that increases the detail & resolution of Mass Effect 3's videos to today's standards.

Mods

  • Extended Final Anderson Conversation - Restores (mostly) the full final conversation with Anderson that was severely shortened in the released game.
  • Expanded Galaxy Mod - Adds a huge number of changes, both large and small, to improve the overall gameplay of the game, giving the user a more personalized experience.
  • Dynamic Weapon Lowering - DWL ensures that Shepard raises or lowers their weapon based on whether they are inside or outside of combat. The system intelligently monitors your current gameplay, and automatically adjusts the position of your arms and weapon in a timely manner.
  • No low hp blood drops on screen - This mod removes blood drops that cover screen when health decrease in ME3.
  • Ark Mod - Additional Hazard maps and an entirely new N7 mission.
  • Individual Cooldowns Mod (ME1 Style) - Disables the global cooldown of powers, making them all have individual cooldowns just like ME1 (and the mod for ME2).
  • MEHEM - The Mass Effect (3) Happy Ending Mod - Replaces the "controversial" endings with new alternative endings.
  • Citadel Epilogue Mod - A mod that makes the Citadel DLC play like an epilogue or simply throw a party after you blow up the reapers.
  • Ambient Audio Overhaul Mod Makes each level in Mass Effect 3 more immersive, unique and rich in audio by restoring all ambient SFX that was either accidentally cut or inaudible.
  • Restored Zaeed Conversation - This mod alters the conversation with Zaeed in the Holding area so that all of his dialogue can be heard.
  • Same-Gender Romances for ME3 - This mod fixes various issues with imported same-gender romances with Ashley, Kaidan, Tali, and Thane, focusing on immersion and restoring unused content.

System requirements

Windows
Minimum Recommended
Operating system (OS) XP
Processor (CPU) Intel Core 2 Duo 1.8 GHz
System memory (RAM) 1 GB (XP)
2 GB (Vista, 7)
Hard disk drive (HDD) 15 GB
Video card (GPU) ATI Radeon X1800
Nvidia GeForce 7900
256 MB of VRAM
DirectX 9.0c compatible
Shader model 3 support
AMD video cards below minimum system requirements: Radeon HD 3200, HD 3300 and HD 4350.
Nvidia video cards below minimum system requirements: GeForce 9300, 8500, 8400 and 8300.
S3 video cards are not supported.

Notes

  1. 1.0 1.1 Notes regarding Steam Play (Linux) data:

References

  1. Psyonix on Twitter: "@Shinjiki81 Well, we helped contribute to the multiplayer for that one. The lovely folks at @bioware crafted the rad single-player game." - last accessed on 2017-07-23
  2. PC Gamer - EA kills off BioWare Points, making old Mass Effect and Dragon Age DLC free - last accessed on 2022-07-14
  3. Kingdoms of Amalur Crossover Content - Mass Effect 3 Wiki Guide - IGN - last accessed on 2016-8-30
  4. Verified by User:Blackbird on 2016-11-02
    Makes the game skip right to Press any key to continue
  5. PC Tweaks (Mass Effect 3) - Mass Effect Wiki
  6. [1] - last accessed on 2023-07-14
  7. How to fix games for 21:9 Ultrawide Gaming - Mass Effect 3, Ori and the Blind Forest, GoT, Fallout 4 - YouTube - last accessed on May 2023
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