Why Shepard's Helmet Is All Mass Effect Fans Have Left

Players get a merch drop instead of a game reveal, and the reports around the closure suggest major acquisitions and a 'core titles' strategy can decide which franchises survive.

Players get a merch drop instead of a game reveal, and the reports around the closure suggest major acquisitions and a 'core titles' strategy can decide which franchises survive.

Key points - The Official Bioware Store is taking preorders for a wearable N7 LED helmet at $174.99, with no release date announced. - The helmet is an upgraded version of the 2020 Legendary Edition replica, adding padding and a weathered in-game finish. - Two AAA batteries power LED lighting that switches between Paragon Blue and Renegade Red via an internal switch. - The drop also includes Converse-like N7 sneakers, a Garrus Vakarian T-shirt and discounts on existing N7 merch. - A 'Save Mass Effect' petition has gathered over 300,000 signatures since news of the studio's closure broke.

Timeline - 2020: An N7 replica helmet launched alongside Mass Effect Legendary Edition. - August: Saudi Arabia's PIF, Silver Lake and Jared Kushner's Affinity Partners completed their $55 billion acquisition of EA. - Recently: EA announced Bioware's closure and the cancellation of Mass Effect 5. - This N7 Day: The Official Bioware Store released a new merch drop, including the upgraded LED helmet.

FAQ

Q: Can you actually wear the new N7 helmet? A: Yes. It's a wearable replica of Shepard's helmet from Mass Effect 3, with added padding and a weathered finish, powered by two AAA batteries.

Q: How much does it cost and when does it ship? A: Preorders are $174.99 and no release date has been indicated. That price includes the helmet plus a weighted stand, plaque and challenge coin.

Q: Is Mass Effect 5 really cancelled? A: Yes. EA announced Bioware's closure and the cancellation of Mass Effect 5 shortly before N7 Day, and a rumored trailer never debuted.