'Mass Effect: Andromeda' release date rumors: What to expect

 Bioware

"Mass Effect 4," also known as "Mass Effect: Andromeda," is coming soon, and the latest rumors suggest interesting changes could be featured in the game.

One of the hot topics concerning the game has been about who the new lead character will be. Previous entries in the "Mass Effect" franchise had introduced and endeared fans to Commander Shepard, but with that character no longer starring in the next game, fans can expect a new experience from the next installment.

Although fans have not exactly been thrilled about the departure of Commander Shepard, there may be some aspects of the new lead character they may warm up too before long.

First off, according to Yibada, the new star of "Mass Effect 4" is expected to be highly customizable, so players will be able to add whatever personal touches they may want to make the new character just as cool as Commander Shepard was.

One thing players might not be able to change is the name of "Mass Effect 4's" protagonist. Some fans have actually looked closer at the contents of a recently released trailer for the game and have honed in on what they believe is a dog tag containing the name of the next protagonist. 

According to WhatCulture, the dog tag appears to bear the name "Ryder," which could also be tribute to Sally Ride, also known as the first American woman to make it to outer space. If the main character's name does end up being "Ryder," then it would continue the franchise's habit of naming their protagonists after pioneering space explorers. 

"Mass Effect 4" is also expected to feature multiplayer mode, though more details about this feature are not yet available.

Fans will likely have to wait another year for their coveted game, as "Mass Effect 4" is expected to arrive during next year's holiday season.

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