BioWare’s science-fiction franchise is a beloved series with a rather strange method to leveling up. All of the games require a second playthrough to reach the max level, and it is necessary to adhere to basic XP gathering techniques along the way. This guide will cover everything you need to know about reaching the max level in Mass Effect 2.
What is the max level in Mass Effect 2?
The max level in Mass Effect 2 is 30. The first Mass Effect game started with a level 60 cap, however, the new Legendary Mode in the base game reduced this to 30, so that all three games now operate with the same max level.
Mass Effect 2 requires the import of a ME1 character. Your starting level in ME2 will depend on the level of your ME1 character.
Starting levels for imported Mass Effect characters
| ME1 Import | ME2 Level |
| Import a level 1-49 character | Start Mass Effect 2 at level 2 |
| Import a level 50-59 character | Start Mass Effect 2 at level 3 |
| Import a level 60 character | Start Mass Effect 2 at level 5 |
Squad points
Every player begins Mass Effect 2 with two Squad Points and a further two points are gained after every level up until level 20 is surpassed. After level 21, you will receive one point per level until level 30.
Throughout gameplay, you will receive a total of 51 Squad Points for 30 levels. This total includes bonus points from earning loyalty from squad members.
You can also use points to get Shepard’s powers and abilities.
How to level up quickly
In order to level up quickly and achieve max level, there are some basic tasks you can perform to gather XP easily throughout the game.
- Complete all side quests and mining chores on every planet
- Open crates
- Unlock doors
- Obtain Codex information
- Talk to every character
Resisting the use of Medi-gel is also beneficial for gaining XP, as you receive 450 XP for each one you pick up when your stock is full.
Additional XP can also be gathered in the final mission, simply by leaving the elevator in the Citadel and killing Geth Destroyers. Eradicating waves of Geth or Caspin in UNC missions, as well as destroying rocket drones in Bring Down the Sky will rack up your XP too.
A useful strategy to follow during Mako missions is to lower enemies’ health with the vehicle and then kill them in person. Using this combination will deliver more XP to your bag, over choosing to just annihilate them with the vehicle.
Reaching max level
Mass Effect
Achieving max level in Mass Effect is now easier because of the reduced level 30 cap in the new Legendary mode, which will get you to max level in no time. However, the amount of XP achieved throughout this mode is the same.
Mass Effect 2
To obtain maximum XP in Mass Effect 2, you will need to start by importing a character from Mass Effect. You will also have to indulge in a second playthrough. You will start the second run with a lower level than your first run, but gaining XP in the second wave is much easier. Completing every main mission, side mission and killing all enemies will produce maximum XP.
Mass Effect 3
Similarly, to start leveling up in Mass Effect 3 you will need to import a character from Mass Effect 2. Assuring you pick up Medi-gel with a full stock will be crucial here, as well as completing all of the DLC alongside the main missions.
