The “Mass Effect” series is beloved by millions, both hardcore gamers and casual players alike.

It’s a space opera like no other in video games; it shares more in common with the “Star Wars” films than it does with other game franchises.

The original trilogy followed the exploits of Commander Shepard, a player-created character who was shaped by your actions in-game. The male version is seen above (center), but you could also play a female version of Shepard.

Unfortunately, when the credits rolled on “Mass Effect 3,” the story was over: No more space opera, no more tales of heroic Commander Shepard.

That’s where “Mass Effect: Andromeda” comes in. 

The next “Mass Effect” is out now — a $US60 game on Xbox One, PlayStation 4, and PC! Here’s what you should know if you’re thinking about checking it out:

Follow Business Insider Australia on Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, and Instagram.