Mass Effect Issues

[Jdioutkast]

So while I just picked up Mass Effect and am throughly enjoying it, I was wondering if anyone else is having this problem, it seems to me that all the light sources and shadows are messed up, they look very blocky. Any ideas what could be causing this?

Im guessing its a driver issue and for reference i have an ATI X1900XT

 

[wanderer27]

I can't help you with your problem, I'm just curious as to where they left off on the DRM issue on this game?

 

[TheVrolok]

Originally posted by: wanderer27
I can't help you with your problem, I'm just curious as to where they left off on the DRM issue on this game?

The routine activation check is still there. As for the OP, I'm not sure what's causing it. I have the same issue. I don't know what it is, hdr, bloom, facial shadows .. something.. but I agree that the light/shadows do look a bit off. I'm on an 8800GT so maybe it's not a driver issue?

 

[onlyCOpunk]

If I could get the game to actually start. It crashes after I click play. I'm tried compatibility mode, run as administrator, no dice.

 

[Red Storm]

Yeah, I also can't get the game to run, and there are lots more who can't either.

 

[wanderer27]

Wow, you'd think they'd like um, maybe test this game out before they shipped it?

I wonder if this is a DRM byproduct or just a bad build.

It's starting to sound like the Bioshock fiasco, only different issues

 

[Red Storm]

Whatever the issues, I sure hope they're working on a fix asap. It seems a lot of people that are experiencing problems have Phenom CPUs, yet I'm having the same issues with a Q6600 and an 8800GT.

 

[you2]

Does the problem occur with xp or vista or both ?

 

[wanderer27]

I took a look at the ME forums - seem to be quite a few issues.

If you're running Vista it seems you need to set it to run as Administrator to get it to run correctly.

Edit:

It seems you also HAVE to have an SM3.0 compliant card. Probably not an issue for most on this forum, but you never know.

 

[Red Storm]

I'm running Vista Ultimate (64-bit), tried running as admin, windowed, without antivirus, without UAC, and I'm still having issues. I've given up trying to solve it for now.

 

[chizow]

Originally posted by: TheVrolok

Originally posted by: wanderer27
I can't help you with your problem, I'm just curious as to where they left off on the DRM issue on this game?

The routine activation check is still there. As for the OP, I'm not sure what's causing it. I have the same issue. I don't know what it is, hdr, bloom, facial shadows .. something.. but I agree that the light/shadows do look a bit off. I'm on an 8800GT so maybe it's not a driver issue?

Its a problem with their Dynamic Shadows. Turn the option off and it goes away. But it doesn't look like a vendor-specific problem as I've also got the blocky/pixelated shadows on faces with Dynamic Shadows turned on.

Originally posted by: onlyCOpunk
If I could get the game to actually start. It crashes after I click play. I'm tried compatibility mode, run as administrator, no dice.

I'm running it fine on Vista 64. I'd double check your video card, as I'm pretty sure the box listed HD2600 being under system specs. One thing I've noticed is how incredibly CPU intensive the game is. On a Q6600 @ 3.2GHz, utilization hovers between 60-85%, which is by far the most CPU intensive game I've run.

 

[wanderer27]

Okay, found some more that may help some here.

Virtual Drive programs (Daemon) are a no no - have to either disable or uninstall these.

Alcohol etc are deacts/uninstall also.

The above are Dev confirmed DRM requirements.

The one that gets me is maybe having to deact (uninstall?) Anti-Virus software. For a program that want's to connect to the Internet - this one scares me.

 

[AMDZen]

Geeee Zussss

OK well I'm waiting then, glad I cancelled my preorder. I have been pretty hyped to go buy this but seriously, the whole I have to uninstall Daemon Tools thing, and knowing that this probably isn't even the only reason people are having issues is not good. ANd as wanderer says, having to deactivate AV is almost scary.

Do these devs really not realize that I would of BOUGHT this game today if this wasn't the case along with tons of others - where I can guarantee that ALL of these issues are there because of their DRM. Because they are trying to stop it from getting pirated which won't happen any way. I can just see TQ all over again. Game crashes like crazy, people pirate the game partly because of it, DEVs BLAME the crashing and everything on people trying to get around the DRM and those using cracks, Mass Effect doesn't do so hot on sales, Mass Effect 2 becomes console only never to be seen on the PC.

F$)&*(! YOU EA, MS or whoever is responsible!

 

[Maleficus]

If only there was a demo... or some other way to determine if these things would happen!?

 

[wanderer27]

Originally posted by: AMDZen
Geeee Zussss

OK well I'm waiting then, glad I cancelled my preorder. I have been pretty hyped to go buy this but seriously, the whole I have to uninstall Daemon Tools thing, and knowing that this probably isn't even the only reason people are having issues is not good. ANd as wanderer says, having to deactivate AV is almost scary.

Do these devs really not realize that I would of BOUGHT this game today if this wasn't the case along with tons of others - where I can guarantee that ALL of these issues are there because of their DRM. Because they are trying to stop it from getting pirated which won't happen any way. I can just see TQ all over again. Game crashes like crazy, people pirate the game partly because of it, DEVs BLAME the crashing and everything on people trying to get around the DRM and those using cracks, Mass Effect doesn't do so hot on sales, Mass Effect 2 becomes console only never to be seen on the PC.

F$)&*(! YOU EA, MS or whoever is responsible!

Yeah, I was kinda interested in getting Bioshock (and Crysis) until I saw all the DRM related issues people were having.

I was somewhat interested in ME too (if it's what I'm thinking it is), but this is another pass to me.

Same crap's probably going to happen to Spore as well.

It's a shame really . . . . thanks again EA.

 

[EvilComputer92]

Originally posted by: wanderer27

Originally posted by: AMDZen
Geeee Zussss

OK well I'm waiting then, glad I cancelled my preorder. I have been pretty hyped to go buy this but seriously, the whole I have to uninstall Daemon Tools thing, and knowing that this probably isn't even the only reason people are having issues is not good. ANd as wanderer says, having to deactivate AV is almost scary.

Do these devs really not realize that I would of BOUGHT this game today if this wasn't the case along with tons of others - where I can guarantee that ALL of these issues are there because of their DRM. Because they are trying to stop it from getting pirated which won't happen any way. I can just see TQ all over again. Game crashes like crazy, people pirate the game partly because of it, DEVs BLAME the crashing and everything on people trying to get around the DRM and those using cracks, Mass Effect doesn't do so hot on sales, Mass Effect 2 becomes console only never to be seen on the PC.

F$)&*(! YOU EA, MS or whoever is responsible!

Yeah, I was kinda interested in getting Bioshock (and Crysis) until I saw all the DRM related issues people were having.

I was somewhat interested in ME too (if it's what I'm thinking it is), but this is another pass to me.

Same crap's probably going to happen to Spore as well.

It's a shame really . . . . thanks again EA.

This isn't really an issue, and you shouldn't be buying games based off what DRM they have when it always gets cracked a few days after release. You guys realize that cracks are already out for the game right. Seriously, DRM is not a problem after that. You are just missing out on a good game. I bought it from gogamer and I'm going to crack it as soon as I get it.

If you buy the game legitly and your not happy with the DRM you have every right to crack it.

 

[onlyCOpunk]

Originally posted by: Red Storm
I'm running Vista Ultimate (64-bit), tried running as admin, windowed, without antivirus, without UAC, and I'm still having issues. I've given up trying to solve it for now.

Isn't it the truth.

I'd have a hard time believing it was my video card since the problem is more widespread. Not to mention in the documentation it doesn't say anythingabout my video card not being able.

 

[Canai]

Originally posted by: wanderer27
Okay, found some more that may help some here.

Virtual Drive programs (Daemon) are a no no - have to either disable or uninstall these.

Alcohol etc are deacts/uninstall also.

The above are Dev confirmed DRM requirements.

The one that gets me is maybe having to deact (uninstall?) Anti-Virus software. For a program that want's to connect to the Internet - this one scares me.

From EA:

If Daemon Tools is on the machine:

* Select the icon at the bottom of the status bar of windows.
* Find the Daemon Tools Icon
* Right Click on the Daemon Tools icon in the Task Bar.
* Select the Emulation tab.
* Deselect SafeDisc.

So they give you a workaround without having to uninstall. If this works I'll be happy.

Still, it shouldn't matter if I have emulation software installed.

 

[Extelleron]

I think people make a big deal out of nothing anytime they see or hear the word 'DRM."

I hear this with a bunch of games; Bioshock, Crysis, now Mass Effect.... haven't purchased ME as I own it already for 360, but with other "DRM infested" games, I have never had any of the problems people talk about. It has always worked fine for me just like any other game.

People make a big stink out of nothing. It's certainly not something that should stop you from buying a good game.

 

[wanderer27]

Originally posted by: EvilComputer92

Originally posted by: wanderer27

Originally posted by: AMDZen
Geeee Zussss

OK well I'm waiting then, glad I cancelled my preorder. I have been pretty hyped to go buy this but seriously, the whole I have to uninstall Daemon Tools thing, and knowing that this probably isn't even the only reason people are having issues is not good. ANd as wanderer says, having to deactivate AV is almost scary.

Do these devs really not realize that I would of BOUGHT this game today if this wasn't the case along with tons of others - where I can guarantee that ALL of these issues are there because of their DRM. Because they are trying to stop it from getting pirated which won't happen any way. I can just see TQ all over again. Game crashes like crazy, people pirate the game partly because of it, DEVs BLAME the crashing and everything on people trying to get around the DRM and those using cracks, Mass Effect doesn't do so hot on sales, Mass Effect 2 becomes console only never to be seen on the PC.

F$)&*(! YOU EA, MS or whoever is responsible!

Yeah, I was kinda interested in getting Bioshock (and Crysis) until I saw all the DRM related issues people were having.

I was somewhat interested in ME too (if it's what I'm thinking it is), but this is another pass to me.

Same crap's probably going to happen to Spore as well.

It's a shame really . . . . thanks again EA.

This isn't really an issue, and you shouldn't be buying games based off what DRM they have when it always gets cracked a few days after release. You guys realize that cracks are already out for the game right. Seriously, DRM is not a problem after that. I bought it from gogamer and I'm going to crack it as soon as I get it.

If you buy the game legitly and your not happy with the DRM you have every right to crack it.

On one hand, I know and understand what you're talking about.

On the other, it's basically saying I approve of what x Company is doing by buying their product - I don't approve of it (DRM).

Yeah, I could just go ahead and Pirate it (and not pay for it) and enjoy the game, but I'd prefer to support the Developers (in most cases) by buying their product. I mean it's not like there's not other Co's out there releasing games without DRM and succeeding (Stardock). This whole DRM issue is just totally crap - from the Malware/Spyware/etc. they install to actual instances of damaging Hardware (CD/DVD drives etc.).

Idealistic? Yeah, but there are plenty of others feeling/doing the same these days. This crap has to end.

It's my Computer. I paid for it and I built it. They're not going to tell me I have to install some BS software that's going to cause performance degradation, or Spyware, or any other crap software I don't want on my Computer.
On top of that, I certainly don't want anything installed on it that is going to cause physical damage to my System - where do they get off thinking they have the right to do that?

They don't.

So, I'll miss out on some potentially cool games (jury's out on that). What about Joe Sixpack? He's screwed.

Sorry if it seems I'm not coming down on you, I'm not. You're trying to be helpful and I appreciate it, you've just hit on a real sore topic for me these days (feel the same about Vista and it's DRM BS). Hell, I'm not even thrilled with the DRM that's on XP - all under the guise of "Security".

Damn, I'm just getting to be a real stinking grouch in my old age

 

[s44]

Originally posted by: Extelleron
I think people make a big deal out of nothing anytime they see or hear the word 'DRM."

I hear this with a bunch of games; Bioshock, Crysis, now Mass Effect.... haven't purchased ME as I own it already for 360, but with other "DRM infested" games, I have never had any of the problems people talk about. It has always worked fine for me just like any other game.

People make a big stink out of nothing. It's certainly not something that should stop you from buying a good game.

It's like this:

People love to pirate.

People like an excuse to pirate.

For some reason, advocacy of piracy is tolerated on these forums.

Add it up.

 

[TheVrolok]

Originally posted by: s44

Originally posted by: Extelleron
I think people make a big deal out of nothing anytime they see or hear the word 'DRM."

I hear this with a bunch of games; Bioshock, Crysis, now Mass Effect.... haven't purchased ME as I own it already for 360, but with other "DRM infested" games, I have never had any of the problems people talk about. It has always worked fine for me just like any other game.

People make a big stink out of nothing. It's certainly not something that should stop you from buying a good game.

It's like this:

People love to pirate.

People like an excuse to pirate.

For some reason, advocacy of piracy is tolerated on these forums.

Add it up.

I'm not going to say things don't happen to legit users, because there are far too many claims for problems not to be occuring. However, I've purchased a number of these "DRM infested" games and, also, had 0 problems. Other than the shadow problem, ME has worked flawlessly for me so far on my Q6600 w/ 8800GT.

 

[Drift3r]

I bought the D2D version (I hate having cd's/dvd's in my drive) of the game and it works fine on my rig. The game is a freaking blast on par with KOTOR in terms of RPG goodness. I am glad EA/Bioware waited to get it done right.

 

[manko]

Originally posted by: Extelleron
I think people make a big deal out of nothing anytime they see or hear the word 'DRM."

I hear this with a bunch of games; Bioshock, Crysis, now Mass Effect.... haven't purchased ME as I own it already for 360, but with other "DRM infested" games, I have never had any of the problems people talk about. It has always worked fine for me just like any other game.

People make a big stink out of nothing. It's certainly not something that should stop you from buying a good game.

Well, I had a huge deal, with days of hardware and software problems, and no help from developer or publisher support and an unplayable game that I couldn't return with a DRMed game.

So, nope wrong. It can be a huge deal and a ridiculous punishment for buying for a game for some people. This kind of thing would not be tolerated if it was any other kind of consumer product or service, but for some reason it's okay to pull this BS on gamers.

 

[Excelsior]

Originally posted by: Drift3r
I bought the D2D version (I hate having cd's/dvd's in my drive) of the game and it works fine on my rig. The game is a freaking blast on par with KOTOR in terms of RPG goodness. I am glad EA/Bioware waited to get it done right.

Can't wait to pick it up myself. Loved KOTOR and Jade Empire.