Brushworm Speaks!- The Art of Mass Effect Review
Brushworm Speaks!
The Art of Mass Effect
by Fernando Bueno
****
Acquired: Amazon.com
Series: Mass Effect
Hardcover: 176 pages
Publisher: Prima Games (November 20, 2007)
Language: English
Subject: Science-Fiction
****
The Story: Mass Effect is set in a rich and diverse universe hundreds of years in our future. The challenge of creating a plausible vision for humanity and a galaxy of ancient and exotic alien races was given to BioWare's talented art and design teams. They began in a formless void and shaped their worlds, their races, and their civilizations to finish with a living breathing setting exclusive to the Xbox 360.
From a massive space citadel whose origins are lost in time to the utilitarian clothing of frontier colonists, each component, whether small or colossal, anomalous or common, within Mass Effect's universe need to be brought to detailed life.
In this stunning volume, take an exclusive step back to when this universe was still forming in this compilation of art, images, and commentary taken directly from the artists' sketchbooks as they created the universe of Mass Effect.
The Review: As of the time of this writing, Brushworm has yet to complete an entire game of the original Mass Effect video game. This is largely do to being a follower of the Playstation system. Brushworm has, however, watched multiple playlists on Youtube of the game play and has steadily devoured the entirety of the Mass Effect Wiki. Brushworm’s interest has waned somewhat in recent years but Mass Effect continues to hold a special place in Brushworm’s heart. It continues to stand as inimitable work of science fiction as well as a gaming icon.
Brushworm loves concept art. Not only is it more detailed than what is found in the final game, it is also a deeper insight into how the game was put together and the minds of the artists who brought the game to life.
The look of Mass Effect is unmistakable. The curving shapes and lines of lights lend it a style that is rarely seen in science fiction literature. Modern day stuff is dominated by rigid lines and blocky shapes that echo the aesthetics
One of the minor complaints, about this book though is ironically that it may be too much of an art book. Some of the best art books in Brushworm’s collection, also have a significant amount of text to accompany all the artwork. It is opportunity to expand upon the lore as presented to us in the game. It also gives the reader a chance to look into the backgrounds of the creative process that created all of these species, planets, and technology.
In this book, the text is very limited. Only appearing in brief paragraphs before the spreads of art. The art may be what the reader came for but text can be just as important in order to put the images into context. What we receive instead, is by no means inadequate, make no mistake.
Final Verdict: The Art of Mass Effect is a thrilling glimpse into the genesis of one of the most iconic games of the 21st Century. While it could have used a bit more background informations the stunning and distinctive art is more than enough to satiate the reader.
Rating: Four Renegade Icons Out of Five
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