Mass Effect: Andromeda buyer's guide – Editions, collectibles, pre-order bonuses

Mass Effect: Andromeda is the fourth entry in the main Mass Effect series, following a five-year hiatus from Electronic Arts. As the first title in the series playable on next-generation consoles, Andromeda promises to deliver a new level of depth in its universe across both single player and multiplayer modes.

But alongside the game's release, the sheer number of pre-order bonuses, special editions and collectibles can be overwhelming. We've brought together every version of the game and some popular official merchandise to help you pick before venturing into Andromeda.

Release date

Mass Effect: Andromeda officially releases on Tuesday, 21 March in North America for Xbox One, PlayStation 4 and Windows PCs. However, those located in Europe will have to wait an additional two days for the game's release on Thursday, 23 March. If you're looking to get your hands on the game ahead of time, a 10-hour trial is available to download on EA Access for Xbox One and Origin Access for PC.

Preorder bonuses

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Header Cell - Column 0	Deep Space Explorer Armor Set	Nomad Skin	Multiplayer Booster Pack	Exclusive SteelBook
Amazon	✓	✓	✓	Row 0 - Cell 4
Microsoft Store	Row 1 - Cell 1	Row 1 - Cell 2	Row 1 - Cell 3	Row 1 - Cell 4
Xbox Store	✓	✓	✓	Row 2 - Cell 4
GameStop	✓	✓	✓	Row 3 - Cell 4
Best Buy	✓	✓	✓	✓

Pre-order bonuses can vary depending on stock levels at certain retailers.

Mass Effect: Andromeda Standard Edition (Physical)

The standard version of Mass Effect: Andromeda is being offered for $59.99, with additional bonus content dependent on the retailer (detailed breakdown supplied above). This version of the game is most common and stocked by a majority of video game retailers.

Mass Effect: Andromeda Standard Edition (Digital)

A digital version of Mass Effect: Andromeda is also available; sold in brick and mortar stores as a pre-paid Xbox Live code. Most retailers who stock pre-paid codes will distribute the codes ahead of launch, to give players the chance to pre-load the title. Like digital copies purchased directly from the Xbox Store, these copies of the game will unlock at 12:01 in your time zone.

Mass Effect: Andromeda Deluxe Edition (Physical)

For an additional $10, Mass Effect: Andromeda's Deluxe Edition offers some extra digital content over the standard version of the game. This includes exclusive in-game skins, boosters for multiplayer and various equipment packs. You'll also be able to take Mass Effect's full soundtrack on the go, with access to a free online download included inside the package. Here's a breakdown of all the content inside this edition of the game.

Deep Space Explorer Armor
Nomad Skin
Multiplayer Booster Pack
Pathfinder Casual Outfit
Scavenger Armor
Pathfinder Elite Weapon Set
Pet Pyjak
Multiplayer Deluxe Launch Pack
Digital Soundtrack

This physical version of the game can be picked up at the following retailers.

Mass Effect: Andromeda Deluxe Edition (Digital)

A digital copy of the Mass Effect: Andromeda Deluxe Edition is also available from a majority of games retailers. With the Deluxe Edition only providing in-game items, the digital version of the Deluxe Edition offers the same content as the physical release. By purchasing this version of the game from third-party retailers, you'll be receiving a code to redeem over Xbox Live.

Mass Effect: Andromeda Super Deluxe Edition (Digital)

The Super Deluxe Edition of Mass Effect: Andromeda appears to be available exclusively in a digital form, unlocking all Deluxe Edition goodies and 'Super Deluxe Booster Packs'. This provides access to weekly content drops over a 20 week period, unlocking new weapons and equipment for multiplayer. Priced at $99.99, you'll be paying a premium for this additional content.

Mass Effect: Andromeda Prima Guide

If you're looking to get the best tips and tricks for Mass Effect: Andromeda, Prima's official game guide is the way to go. Compiling walkthroughs for both the single player and multiplayer modes, the guide gives an unrivaled insight into combat, maps, enemy types and more. With the purchase of the physical book, you'll also be entitled to a free copy of the handy digital eGuide.

Mass Effect: Andromeda Collector's Edition Guide

While the Collector's Edition still houses the same tips as the standard game guide, this premium version comes with a few added bonuses for collectors. Aside from the new hardback cover and new design, you'll also be receiving bonus content only found in this guide.

Mass Effect: Andromeda Pathfinder Edition Guide

Retailing for a hefty price tag of $129.99, the Pathfinder Edition of the Prima guide offers a huge amount of additional content only found in this package. With a Mass Effect: Andromeda backpack, a redesigned game guide and other exclusive bonuses, this is designed for the most hardcore collectors. Here's a breakdown of everything found inside the Pathfinder Edition guide.

Mass Effect: Andromeda Initiative Backpack
Alternate Premium Hardcover Guide
Multiplayer Booster Pack
Welcome Letter
Galaxy Chart (11" X 17")
Field Journal
Branded Envelope
Mobile-Friendly eGuide

If you're wanting to splash out on a limited edition product, check it out at the retailers listed below.

The Art of Mass Effect: Andromeda

If guides aren't your thing, the Mass Effect: Andromeda art book gives an insight into the game's development with 184 pages packed full of artwork. Spanning the design of the game's world, characters, and equipment, this book is a must-buy for any avid fans of the Mass Effect universe. The Art of Mass Effect: Andromeda can be picked up from most leading bookstores.

Mass Effect: Andromeda – Nexus Uprising

Nexus Uprising is the official tie-in novel for Mass Effect: Andromeda, expanding on the story explored in the main game. This is the first of three books in a series, with a narrative that feeds directly into the existing universe. Being entirely canonical, this is a great way to expand your overall Mass Effect experience.

Mass Effect: Andromeda Nomad ND1 Model from PDP

Mass Effect: Andromeda's iconic NOMAD is also available in a 1:18 diecast model form. With an illuminated control panel and pop-up drone, this model is an authentic, detailed replica aimed at die-hard fans. If you're really wanting to take it to the next level, there's a $200 remote-controlled version too.

Mass Effect: Andromeda Funko POP collection

Coinciding with the release of Mass Effect: Andromeda, collectible figure manufacturer, Funko, is releasing a line of figures based on the game's main cast. Although two variations of Sara Ryder are exclusive to GameStop and Best Buy, the rest of the collection can be picked up today on Amazon. Here's a complete list of all the figures and where to buy them!

Still undecided?

If you're still undecided on whether to pick up Mass Effect: Andromeda, make sure to stay tuned for our upcoming review and guides on Windows Central!