My name is Commander Shepard, and this is my favorite DLC on the Citadel.I'm....I'm sorry, I couldn't resist. But joking aside, this may well be one of my favorite Mass Effect DLCs that I've played in a good long while. And not because it has the best story, or because it added a great deal to the overall lore, but because it managed to jump on an element of the Mass Effect universe that I have found sorely missing in past instalments.
Fun.
Citadel takes us away from the threat of the Reapers, Cerberus and all the overarching, universe-at-stake conflict for one last hurrah with our beloved characters. Though the pretext that sets up this DLC may be flimsy when it comes to the story, you really need to take that on board and accept what BioWare is giving you. One last moment to enjoy these characters before its over.
Well, now I'm depressed. Way to go, me.
Fun is one of these aspects that often gets left behind in the wake of a grand, epic story, and the justification seems easy enough. Why waste time and dialog on that when you have a galactic catastrophe on your hand? But did the Legionnaires not play dice in ancient Rome? Did soldiers not crack jokes in their foxholes during war? Even during times of great crisis, fun, enjoyment and humor need to be a part of it, and this is entirely true of video games. A responsible, professional and intelligent character is admirable and respectable. A character with whom you can see a fun or humorous side, well they are endearing and memorable.
What scene to people remember most about Mordin? Besides that one from ME3(seashells, man...). I'm willing to bet that it will be his rendition of 'Scientist Salarian'. See what I mean?
Citadel gives you a chance to get to know your characters outside of the threat of galactic war. To see what it would be like if they relax, and try to enjoy themselves. Even on the more 'serious' plot threads, the comradery and the banter between your squadmates is running high. On several occasions the dialog brought up genuine laughter. The name of the game was enjoying your last adventure with these characters, and I was loving it.The missions bring your whole squad together, even a few characters from previous titles, and the effect couldn't be better. The banter between your squad makes them feel like a group of people who have been to hell and back together, and tackle this like its an exciting day at the office. To have a dozen characters you know and love open fire, throwing taunts, jeers and wit in all directions, its an experience you will rarely get anywhere else.
I don't want to go into detail and ruin the best parts, but I have to say, give this one a chance. You'll find some of the best dialogue, development and genuine laughs of the series. And best of all, you get to have a last bit of fun with your team before we all move on.
