mass effect 3 trophy guide
Category : Guide
Welcome to the Mass Effect 3 Trophy Guide! This guide helps you unlock all 69 trophies, including the elusive Platinum, by mastering combat, story missions, and collectibles effectively.
Overview of Trophies
Mass Effect 3 features a total of 69 trophies, including 1 Platinum, 2 Gold, 13 Silver, and 53 Bronze trophies. The Platinum trophy, N7 Elite, is awarded for unlocking all other trophies, marking 100% completion. The trophy list is diverse, covering story-related achievements, combat skills, collectibles, and DLC-specific content. Story-related trophies are tied to completing key missions, while combat-based trophies require mastering specific skills, such as Shield Breaker or Biotic Combo Master. Collectible trophies involve gathering war assets and completing side quests. DLCs like Citadel and Leviathan add unique challenges and achievements. Some trophies, like The One and Only, require defeating Spectre-level opponents on high difficulty. With careful planning and strategy, players can unlock all trophies in 35-40 hours, though some may need additional playthroughs or grinding in areas like the Armax Arena.
Preparing for Trophy Hunting
Import your Mass Effect 2 save with everyone alive to maximize war assets and unlock missions. Upgrade weapons using credits and complete side quests before critical story points to avoid missing trophies.
3.1 Importing Saves
Importing your Mass Effect 2 save into Mass Effect 3 is crucial for a seamless trophy hunting experience. Ensure your save from Mass Effect 2 has all squad members alive and carries over from Mass Effect 1. This ensures access to all missions and maximum war assets, which are vital for the Master and Commander trophy. A completed save from the previous games also unlocks key story-related achievements and enhances your gameplay experience. Make sure your save is compatible with Mass Effect 3 to avoid any issues during the import process. This step is essential for achieving 100% completion and earning the Platinum trophy.
3.2 Understanding Galaxy at War
Galaxy at War is a crucial system in Mass Effect 3 that tracks your progress in gathering war assets. These assets are essential for achieving the Master and Commander trophy, which requires approximately 5,400 Effective Military Strength (EMS). Completing main missions, side quests, and DLCs like Omega and Leviathan contributes to your EMS. Ensure you complete as many missions as possible before key story points, such as Priority: Tuchunka, as some side quests become unavailable afterward. Focus on scanning planets and completing collection quests during your exploration to maximize your assets. DLCs provide significant boosts, so consider completing them early to ease the grind. Properly managing Galaxy at War ensures you’re well-prepared for the final battle and trophy requirements.
Story-Related Trophies
Story-related trophies in Mass Effect 3 are unlocked by progressing through the campaign and completing key missions like Priority: Mars and Tuchunka. These trophies are tied to specific story milestones and require no additional grinding, making them straightforward to achieve as you play through the game.
4.1 Prologue: Earth
The Prologue: Earth mission sets the stage for Mass Effect 3 and introduces the game’s core narrative. This section is relatively short but impactful, as it establishes Shepard’s return to active duty. Completing this mission unlocks the Driven trophy, which is story-related and unavoidable. During this phase, you’ll witness the initial Reaper attack on Earth and make key choices that influence the game’s outcome. Ensure you interact with all available characters, as some dialogues may impact future storylines or trophy requirements. The Prologue is a straightforward section with no optional objectives, making it a smooth start to your trophy journey. It also sets the foundation for later story-related achievements tied to specific missions and companions.
4.2 Priority: Mars
Priority: Mars is the first major mission in Mass Effect 3 and serves as an introduction to the game’s combat and narrative flow. This mission is crucial for unlocking the Driven trophy, marking Shepard’s official return to duty. During this mission, you’ll encounter familiar allies and face the initial threats of the Reaper invasion. The mission is linear, with no branching paths, ensuring a smooth progression. Completing Mars also sets up subsequent story missions and provides insights into the game’s overarching objectives. Pay attention to dialogues and choices, as they may influence future outcomes. This mission is a foundational step toward earning other story-related trophies and preparing for the challenges ahead. It also familiarizes players with the updated combat mechanics and squad dynamics.
4.3 Priority: Tuchunka
Priority: Tuchunka is a pivotal mission in Mass Effect 3 where Shepard leads a Turian platoon to secure a crucial asset. This mission introduces players to the Turian military and their tactics. Completing this mission rewards the player with War Assets, essential for the Galaxy at War system. During this mission, you’ll encounter heavy resistance, including Brutes and Harvesters, providing opportunities to earn combat-related trophies. Notably, this is the earliest chance to unlock the Defender trophy by killing a Harvester. The mission also highlights the importance of teamwork and strategic combat. Be sure to complete all objectives thoroughly, as progressing past this point may lock out certain side missions. This mission sets the stage for future conflicts and is a key step in building your War Asset collection.
4.4 Rannoch: Geth Fighter Squadrons
Rannoch: Geth Fighter Squadrons is a critical mission in Mass Effect 3 where Shepard infiltrates a Geth base to sabotage their fighter production. This mission is essential for securing the Geth as allies and boosting your War Assets. The mission takes place on the planet Rannoch, homeworld of the Geth, and features intense combat against Geth forces. Completing this mission rewards you with significant story progress and assets. During this mission, you’ll encounter heavy Geth resistance, including Prime and Colossus units. Strategies involve using squad abilities to dismantle Geth shields and armor effectively. This mission also ties into the larger narrative of resolving the Geth-Quarian conflict. Ensure you complete all objectives to maximize your War Assets and story outcomes. This mission is a turning point in the game and a key step in uniting the galaxy against the Reapers.
4.5 Priority: Thessia
Priority: Thessia is a pivotal mission in Mass Effect 3 where Shepard attempts to secure the asari’s support by infiltrating a secret base on the planet Thessia. This mission is crucial for advancing the story and gaining vital War Assets. Thessia is known for its lush environments and ancient asari ruins, offering a unique setting for combat and exploration. The mission involves navigating through Cerberus forces and solving puzzles to unlock ancient asari technology. Completing this mission successfully grants Shepard the support of the asari fleet, significantly strengthening the galaxy’s defense against the Reapers. It’s important to complete all side quests before starting this mission, as some will become unavailable afterward. This mission also provides opportunities to deepen relationships with asari characters and gain insight into their culture. Securing Thessia’s support is a key milestone in the fight against the Reapers.
4.6 Priority: Cerberus Headquarters
Priority: Cerberus Headquarters is the final major mission before the game’s conclusion, where Shepard infiltrates Cerberus’s central base to stop the Illusive Man and his plans. This mission is intense, featuring heavy combat and critical story decisions. Completing it successfully is essential for advancing toward the endgame and unlocking key story-related trophies. The mission also provides opportunities to confront key antagonists and resolve plot threads. Be prepared for challenging encounters with Cerberus forces, including elite units and mechs. Ensure your squad is well-equipped and that you’ve upgraded your weapons and abilities. This mission marks a turning point in the story, leading directly to the final battle against the Reapers. Completing it sets the stage for the game’s climax and the ultimate fate of the galaxy. Strategic play and careful decision-making are crucial here.
Combat and Skill-Based Trophies
This section covers trophies tied to combat achievements, such as Shield Breaker, Firewalker, and Biotic Combo Master, requiring mastery of specific combat skills and strategies to unlock them effectively in gameplay.
5.1 Shield Breaker
The Shield Breaker trophy requires you to overload the shields of 100 enemies. This can be achieved using abilities like Overload or Energy Drain. Focus on enemies with shields, such as Cerberus troops or Geth, and repeatedly use your powers to drain their defenses. This trophy can be earned naturally through gameplay but can also be farmed in the Armax Arsenal Arena in the Citadel DLC, where you can spawn waves of shielded enemies. For efficiency, equip a high-damage overload ability and target groups of enemies with shields. This trophy is a great way to practice combat strategies while progressing toward the Platinum. Remember, persistence and the right abilities will make this achievement manageable.
- Use Overload or Energy Drain on shielded foes.
- Target Cerberus or Geth enemies for consistent shielded targets.
- Farm in the Armax Arsenal Arena for quick progress.
5.2 Firewalker
The Firewalker trophy is unlocked by setting 100 enemies on fire using abilities like Incinerate or Flamethrower. This trophy can be earned naturally during gameplay by targeting groups of enemies, especially in missions with dense enemy populations. The Armax Arsenal Arena in the Citadel DLC is an excellent place to farm this trophy, as it allows you to spawn waves of enemies and consistently apply fire-based abilities. To maximize efficiency, equip a high-damage fire ability and focus on areas with multiple enemies clustered together. This trophy is a straightforward but time-consuming achievement that requires patience and repetition. With persistence and the right strategy, you’ll have this trophy in no time.
- Use Incinerate or Flamethrower to set enemies ablaze.
- Target groups of enemies for faster progress.
- Farm in the Armax Arsenal Arena for consistent spawns.
5.3 Overload Specialist
The Overload Specialist trophy requires overloading the shields of 100 enemies using abilities like Overload or Energy Drain. This achievement is straightforward but time-consuming, as it involves repeatedly targeting shielded enemies. The best approach is to equip a high-damage overload ability and focus on missions or areas with numerous shielded foes, such as Cerberus troops. The Armax Arsenal Arena in the Citadel DLC is an excellent spot to farm this trophy, as it allows you to spawn waves of shielded enemies. To maximize efficiency, use squadmates with complementary abilities to Chain Overload effects. Remember to avoid one-shotting enemies with weapons, as this prevents shield overloading. With consistent effort, this trophy will be yours in no time.
- Use Overload or Energy Drain on shielded enemies.
- Target Cerberus or Geth forces for consistent shielded targets.
- Farm in the Armax Arsenal Arena for endless spawns.
5.4 Biotic Combo Master
Unlocking the Biotic Combo Master trophy requires performing 50 biotic or tech combos. This is achieved by combining biotic abilities, such as Throw and Shockwave, or tech abilities like Overload and Cryo Blast, in quick succession. The key is to use different powers from Shepard or squadmates to trigger combos. For example, using Throw followed by Incinerate creates a devastating combo. The Armax Arsenal Arena in the Citadel DLC is ideal for farming this trophy, as it allows you to face waves of enemies in a controlled environment. Experiment with various ability combinations to reach the target quickly. Squadmates with powerful abilities, like Liara’s Singularity, can accelerate your progress. With practice, you’ll master this achievement efficiently.
- Combine biotic or tech abilities to create combos.
- Utilize squadmates’ powers to enhance combo effectiveness.
- Farm in the Armax Arsenal Arena for consistent spawns.
5.5 The One and Only
Earn the The One and Only trophy by defeating a group of Spectre-level opponents on Normal, Hardcore, or Insanity difficulty. The best way to achieve this is in the Armax Arsenal Arena within the Citadel DLC. Use the Mirror modifier, unlocked via arena tokens, to face Shepard clones. Start on the easiest difficulty, defeat all but the last clone, then switch to Normal, Hardcore, or Insanity to secure the kill. This method ensures the trophy pops without the challenge of higher difficulty from the start. A sniper rifle is recommended for precision headshots. Farm tokens to unlock arena modifiers and enemy types, making the battle more manageable. This trophy tests your combat skills and strategy, so practice and patience are key to success.
- Use the Mirror modifier in Armax Arsenal Arena.
- Start on easier difficulty, then switch to higher.
- Sniper rifles are ideal for precise headshots.
Collectibles and War Assets
Collect Galaxy at War assets by completing missions and scanning planets. Hijack the Atlas Mech and rescue students from Grissom Academy for key collectibles and war asset bonuses.
6.1 Galaxy at War
Galaxy at War is a critical system in Mass Effect 3 where you collect war assets to strengthen your forces against the Reapers. These assets are earned by completing missions, scanning planets, and recruiting allies. Achieving approximately 75% of these assets is essential for unlocking the Master and Commander trophy. DLCs like Omega and Leviathan also contribute significantly to your collection. Ensure you complete side missions and loyalty quests before key story points, as missing them can lock you out of valuable assets. Regularly check your war asset list to track progress and focus on missions that offer high rewards. Efficiently gathering these assets ensures a stronger ending and helps secure the Platinum trophy.
6.2 Hijacking the Atlas Mech
Hijacking an Atlas Mech is a challenging but rewarding achievement in Mass Effect 3. To do this, locate an Atlas Mech during specific missions, such as Priority: Surkesh or Grissom Academy: Emergency Evacuation. Use precise shots to break the glass cockpit, then eliminate the pilot. Once the cockpit is vulnerable, approach the mech and interact with it to hijack. Timing is crucial, as the mech will turn hostile if the pilot isn’t killed quickly. A sniper rifle is ideal for targeting the cockpit effectively. This trophy is tied to specific missions, so ensure you attempt it during the designated encounters. Failure to hijack the mech during these opportunities will lock you out of the achievement, making it essential to act swiftly and strategically.
6.3 Rescue Mission: Grissom Academy
The Rescue Mission: Grissom Academy is a critical side mission in Mass Effect 3 that rewards players with valuable war assets and a trophy. Your objective is to rescue students trapped during a Cerberus attack. Completing this mission before progressing past Priority: Tuchunka is essential, as failure to do so will lock you out of the trophy. Timing is key, as starting Priority: Tuchunka without completing this mission will result in its automatic failure. Ensure you prioritize this mission early in your playthrough to avoid missing out. This mission also contributes to your Galaxy at War assets, enhancing your Prepare for the final battle. Don’t miss this opportunity to save lives and secure crucial resources for the war effort.
DLC-Specific Trophies
The Citadel, Omega, and Leviathan DLCs add unique trophies, from combat challenges in the Armax Arsenal Arena to story-driven achievements, enhancing your journey through the Mass Effect universe.
7.1 Citadel DLC
The Citadel DLC introduces a series of trophies tied to its unique story and gameplay. This DLC is a fan-favorite, offering a mix of humor, emotional moments, and combat challenges. Key trophies include “Shore Leave” for completing the DLC’s main storyline and “Party’s Over” for defeating the final boss. Additionally, “High Achiever” requires earning 10 Platinum medals in the Armax Arsenal Arena, a new multiplayer-style mode within the DLC. To unlock these, focus on exploring the Citadel, completing side quests, and mastering the arena challenges. The arena is also a great place to farm combat-related trophies, such as Shield Breaker and Biotic Combo Master. Ensure you progress through the DLC’s phases methodically to avoid missing any hidden achievements.
7.2 Omega DLC
The Omega DLC adds a thrilling chapter to your Mass Effect 3 journey with unique trophies. Key achievements include “Loyalty of the Pack” for recruiting the Geth Hopper and “Together Again” for helping Aria T’Loak reclaim Omega. The DLC focuses on strategic combat and narrative choices, offering trophies tied to completing missions and defeating challenging enemies. To earn these, explore Omega’s environments, complete all side quests, and engage in intense firefights. The “Aria Would Be Proud” trophy requires defeating 75 enemies while in the M-55 Black Widow. Additionally, “No More Secrets” is unlocked by scanning all nodes in the station’s systems. This DLC is a must-play for fans seeking additional story depth and challenging gameplay. Ensure you complete all objectives thoroughly to secure all trophies.
7.3 Leviathan DLC
The Leviathan DLC introduces a compelling narrative with unique trophies tied to uncovering secrets and defeating formidable foes. Key achievements include “No More Secrets” for scanning all nodes in the Leviathan systems and “Liberation” for freeing a creature from its prison. The DLC also features “Drake’s Fortune”, awarded for defeating a Reaper in combat. To unlock these, explore the mysterious environments thoroughly, engage in strategic battles, and complete all side quests. The “No More Secrets” trophy requires careful scanning of every terminal and node, while “Liberation” demands precise actions during a pivotal mission. These trophies add depth to your journey, offering both story and combat challenges. Complete all objectives diligently to secure these exclusive achievements and enhance your Mass Effect 3 experience.
Multiplayer and Co-op Trophies
Mass Effect 3’s multiplayer mode offers a variety of trophies tied to co-op achievements. These include “Always Prepared” for surviving a mission without dying and “Tour of Duty” for completing a full multiplayer match. The “Insanity” trophy requires winning a match on the highest difficulty. To unlock these, coordinate with your team, utilize class abilities effectively, and focus on objectives. Multiplayer trophies also include “First Contact” for defeating 10 enemies as a krogan and “Verbosity” for using voice commands. Farming specific maps or using booster packs can expedite progress. These trophies add a competitive edge to the game, rewarding teamwork and strategic play. Consistent play and tactical teamwork are key to unlocking all multiplayer achievements.
Weapon Upgrades and Customization
9.1 Upgrades
Upgrade your weapons to level 10 using credits to unlock the Gunsmith trophy. Multiple playthroughs are required since each weapon can only be upgraded 5 times per playthrough.
Upgrading weapons is crucial for achieving the Gunsmith trophy, which requires upgrading any weapon to level 10. Each weapon can be upgraded five times per playthrough, necessitating multiple playthroughs for full upgrades. Credits are needed for upgrades, with costs increasing progressively. Focus on upgrading one weapon at a time to avoid spreading credits thinly. Access the upgrade terminal in the Normandy Shuttle Bay after visiting the Citadel. For first-time players, prioritize upgrading your primary weapon early. This ensures readiness for challenging missions later. Remember, unlocking the Platinum trophy requires completing all upgrades, so plan multiple playthroughs accordingly. Use this system strategically to enhance your arsenal and progress smoothly through the game.
Insanity Difficulty Tips
Conquering Mass Effect 3 on Insanity difficulty is a significant challenge, requiring careful strategy and preparation. Start by ensuring your Shepard is well-leveled and equipped with upgraded weapons and armor. Use cover aggressively, as enemies are relentless in their attacks. Focus on managing your squad’s abilities, prioritizing crowd control and high-damage combos to whittle down tough foes. Invest in War Assets to bolster your Galactic Readiness, which improves your chances in critical missions. Avoid rushing through encounters—take time to assess enemy positions and plan your approach. Utilize your powers and weapons effectively, as ammo conservation is key. Finally, save frequently, especially before tough sections, to avoid frustrating setbacks. With patience and skill, you’ll overcome even the most daunting challenges Insanity throws your way.
Trophy Farming and Grinding
Trophy farming and grinding in Mass Effect 3 can be streamlined by focusing on repeatable activities and specific missions. The Armax Arsenal Arena in the Citadel DLC is ideal for farming combat-related trophies, such as Shield Breaker and Biotic Combo Master, due to its customizable enemy waves. Missions like Grissom Academy: Emergency Evacuation and Tuchunka: Turian Platoon are excellent for earning trophies tied to specific enemy kills or objectives. For War Asset-related trophies, prioritize side quests and scanning missions, as they contribute significantly to your Galaxy at War progress. Once you’ve completed the main story, replaying missions or farming multiplayer matches can help fill in any gaps. Save frequently to track your progress and avoid unnecessary setbacks. Efficient farming requires patience, but with the right strategy, you’ll unlock all trophies in no time.
Completing the Mass Effect 3 Trophy Guide is a rewarding journey that tests your skills and dedication. By following the outlined strategies, you’ll unlock the Platinum trophy and experience the game’s full depth. Remember to import saves, manage War Assets, and utilize DLCs for efficient trophy hunting. The game’s replay value is high, especially with Insanity difficulty and multiplayer modes offering additional challenges. Patience and careful planning are key to conquering every trophy; Enjoy the satisfaction of 100% completion and the memorable conclusion to Shepard’s epic trilogy. Farewell, Commander!