"Mass Effect 3 Citadel" DLC Review

Publisher:  Bioware/EA

Genre:  RPG

Summary:  Shepherd faces a mysterious attacker while on shore leave on the Citadel.

Gameplay:  The DLC features plenty of combat against tough enemies in unique environments, including a segment where Shepherd is alone without armor and weapon choices.

There is also a casino segment that involves distracting guards and hacking cameras with careful timing.  And after you've completed the combat missions, Shepherd is free to roam the new section of the Citadel and take part in casino gambling, arcade games, and the combat simulator.

Style:  I've always liked the giant city on a space station that is the Citadel, so getting to see more of its neon-lit shops and particularly its dark under-workings is a treat.  Anderson's apartment is nice and stylish, too, and can somewhat be decorated according to Shepherd's tastes.

Story:  The main story of "Citadel" (not a good name, but I suppose a more accurate one would be something like "Friendship!" and that would be hard to sell.) is a lot of fun.  The villains are intriguing and surprising, which is especially refreshing after obvious yet supposed shocking betrayals and annoying game-aided villains like Kai Leng.

Lots of the fun comes from the humor.  It's great to see your crew willing to crack jokes, especially after the dourness elsewhere in Mass Effect 3.  It's fun just to see all of your crew.  Citadel goes all out to offer different options and lines depending upon your love interest and various other choices you've had Shepherd make.

This is particularly impressive when Shepherd throws a party and the guest list depends on who Shepherd invites (and who's alive and available, of course.)  Then further conversations vary depending on what kind of party you throw, too.

Besides the main missions and the party (which doesn't have to immediately follow) there are opportunities to meet and chat with past and present crew, plus all the entertainments of the new Citadel section.  Various overheard comments keep up the humorous nature of the DLC.

Conclusion:  Citadel is just very enjoyable.  The combat is good, the story is entertaining, and it offers a lot to do while giving you a lot of choice.