Development on the Legendary Edition commenced in 2019 under the direction of Mac Walters, who previously served as lead writer for Mass Effect 2 and Mass Effect 3. BioWare decided to approach the project as a remaster as opposed to a remake in order to preserve the original trilogy experience. The compilation was announced on November 7, 2020, and released on May 14, 2021, for PlayStation 4, Windows, and Xbox One. Legendary Edition received very positive reviews from video game publications, who praised the enhanced experience of the first game in addition to the convenience and scope of the overall package. Minor criticism was aimed at the extent of the gameplay and visual changes in certain regards.
