'Mass Effect: Andromeda' release date, gameplay news: Game confirmed for early 2017 release

A screenshot from BioWare's trailer for "Mass Effect: Andromeda." Mass Effect/YouTube

It was originally expected that "Mass Effect: Andromeda" will be released later this year. However, rumors have pointed out that the game may be delayed, and will release next year instead. BioWare has officially confirmed the rumors, saying that the game will launch in early 2017.

According to a new announcement posted on the official "Mass Effect" website, the studio's general manager, Aaryn Flynn, stated that the game will "ship in early 2017." The delay, however, will be advantageous to players when "Mass Effect: Andromeda" finally launches, as the post also mentioned that "...we need the right amount of time to make sure we deliver everything the game can be and should be – that's our commitment from all of us to all of you."

Athough the game will roll out next year, fans will have a chance to get an early peek at "Mass Effect: Andromeda." The announcement also revealed that the game will be part of publisher Electronic Arts' showcase ahead of the E3 2016. Reportedly, the game will be highlighted at the EA Play event, scheduled for June 12.

The BioWare announcement also confirmed some details previously rumored for the game. Previous leaks showed how gorgeous "Mass Effect: Andromeda" is, with detailed graphics and design. The announcement underscored that the game is the first in the series to be built on the Frostbite engine.

"We're pushing the technology to deliver visuals, story, and gameplay that have never been done in franchise history," Flynn added.

Meanwhile, in a separate interview with ArsTechnica, Flynn has confirmed that the new game will be a new start in the franchise. According to him, "I think one of the most interesting things for us when we started looking at what we were going to do with 'Andromeda' was knowing this was going to be a whole new set of characters and a new adventure."

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