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.3Q.01. Investigate
Mass Effect

.3Q.01. Investigate

Guide to the 'Investigate' mission on the Collector Ship in Mass Effect. Learn about specialization choices, item locations, and how to survive the initial Collector ambush.

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Guide to the 'Investigate' mission on the Collector Ship in Mass Effect. Learn about specialization choices, item locations, and how to survive the initial Collector ambush.

Alright, so you've made it to the Collector Ship. This part of the game is pretty straightforward, but there are a couple of important choices to make. Don't worry, I'll walk you through it.

Walkthrough
  1. 1
    First things first, just run through the ship. Seriously, there are no enemies for a while, so just keep moving and grab the items you see. You'll find things like Collector Technology (worth 7500 and 15000 credits), Med Kits, Power Cells, and Element Zero (250 credits).
  2. 2
    Keep an eye out for a Control Terminal. When you examine it, you'll get to choose your combat specialization. You can pick between Assault Rifle, Shotgun, or Sniper Rifle training. If you've already trained in one, you can choose an advanced version.
  3. 3
    My Recommendation: I generally don't recommend the Shotgun specialization or its upgrade. If you're deciding between the Assault Rifle and Sniper Rifle, it really comes down to how you like to play. If you're more of a run-and-gun type, go with the Assault Rifle. If you prefer lining up precise headshots, the Sniper Rifle specialization is the way to go, especially since it unlocks the powerful Widow sniper rifle.
  4. 4
    After that, just keep moving through the ship, grab any more items, and head up the ramp.
  5. 5
    You'll eventually reach a Command Console. Try to contact the Normandy. Surprise! It's a trap. Those disabled Collector ships aren't exactly safe vacation spots.
  6. 6
    Get ready for a fight. Platforms will start arriving, bringing groups of Collectors or a hulking Scion. The first few platforms will come in from ahead and to your right (south and west), and then two more will arrive from your left (south and east).
  7. 7
    Watch your cover! The Scions tend to hang back on their platforms and blast you with their Shockwaves, so try not to get too close. The Collectors are a bit more aggressive but still manageable.
  8. 8
    If you find yourself running low on ammo during this fight, don't worry. The very first platform that brings Collectors also has some spare heatsinks.
  9. 9
    Once you've dealt with the initial wave, contact the Normandy again to proceed to the next step.
Tips
  • Don't waste time trying to find enemies early on; just focus on grabbing the loot and getting to the specialization choice.
  • Think carefully about your specialization. It's a significant boost to your combat effectiveness in that weapon type.
  • Use the cover provided by the ship's interior to your advantage during the fight.
  • Keep an eye on the Scions; their Shockwave attack can be devastating if you're caught out in the open.

Items Found:

  • Collector Technology (7500)
  • Med Kit
  • Control Terminal (Weapons Training)
  • Power Cells
  • Element Zero (250)
  • Collector Technology (15000)
  • Control Terminal (Damage Protection unlock)
  • Power Cells

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