Mass Effect 2 Getting Free Launch DLC, More Coming

Information about Mass Effect 2’s DLC leaked late last week, with EA saying they had no plans for charging for additional content at launch. EA also said they would provide more info early this week. They followed through. You can expect free DLC on launch day followed by additional post-launch content.

If you grab the game brand new it will score you access to The Cerberus Network, if you get the game second hand you will have to pay for it. This network basically acts as a hub for access and information on upcoming Mass Effect 2-related releases. Whether you download it or buy it at retail, your copy of Mass Effect 2 will come with a code that will get you in to The Cerberus Network.

"The Cerberus Network augments and extends the rich universe of Mass Effect 2," said Dr. Ray Muzyka, co-founder of BioWare. "We're thrilled to be able to reward loyal BioWare and Mass Effect fans with ongoing, high quality content and provide a direct channel for our players to dive deeper into the intriguing lore of Mass Effect."

Besides access to The Cerberus Network, the DLC pack will include new characters, items, and missions for the enjoyment of aspiring space commanders. One of the new characters is Zaeed, a “rugged and deadly gun-for-hire who is recruited to join Commander Shepard's mission to save mankind."

A second, yet-to-be-dated DLC pack will come with a new hover tank called the Hammerhead. This DLC will also boast new missions and items. You can look forward to the shield, health, and heavy weapon ammo-boosting Cerberus Assault Armor, and the M-22 Eviscerator Shotgun. If there’s ever been a better name for a shotgun, I haven’t heard it.

If you were on the fence about whether to buy Mass Effect 2 new or used, hopefully this bit of news helped you make up your mind.