In other exciting release-date news, "360-exclusive" Mass Effect will be out in May... for PC.

Apparently this is the way things work when your developer is bought out by a major publisher, who can afford to acquire the rights to release the game in other formats.

As with many console-PC ports, the home computer version will contain several optimisations specific to the new platform, including hot keys, a new control system, and even new minor additions to the game in the form of an enhanced GUI system and a new decryption mini-game. It's not yet been announced whether the recently-announced Bring Down The Sky downloadable content (appearing for 360 owners in March) will be incorporated into the PC release, or if it will be made available in other forms.


Frank Gibeau, President of EA's Games Label explained:

"EA has struck an agreement with Microsoft to handle future publishing for Mass Effect. We are looking forward to releasing Mass Effect on the PC this Spring and brand new titles in the future."

Ray Muzyka, General Manager, BioWare and Vice President, Electronic Arts, continues:

"Mass Effect serves as a powerful example of video games as an art form, delivering new levels of emotional intensity, realistic characters and a gripping storyline – all set in a compelling new universe."

Mass Effect for the PC includes the following optimised features:

• Optimized controls designed specifically for the PC.
• High resolution visuals – Mass Effect for the PC features highly detailed textures, characters and environments.
• Fully customizable controls – PC gamers can re-map the control scheme any way they like.
• Run & Gun Control – Players can assign biotic powers or skills to 'hot keys' allowing them to play Mass Effect with a heavier focus on action.
• New decryption mini-game.
• New inventory screen GUI and functionality – The enhanced inventory system makes it easier for players to equip and modify their weapons and armor.

This is the first sign of a split in publishing agreements since EA acquired BioWare towards the end of last year - and everyone kinda-sorta knew this one was coming, despite Microsoft's arguments to the contrary. While nobody should really be surprised, I can imagine there are some slightly frustrated 360 gamers out there, who've had another exclusive title wrenched from their collective grasps.