EA confirms Online Pass for Mass Effect 3, detailed

EA has announced that the multiplayer mode of Mass Effect 3 will need to be unlocked by an online pass code included with every new copy of the game.

Mass Effect 3's multiplayer mode, known as the ME3: Galaxy at War system, will be the latest game in EA's portfolio to utilize their highly controversial online used-game-defense-system Project Ten Dollar. Players will need to activate the online mode with a code found inside new copies of the game. Second-hand buyers will be required to purchase the online pass separately in order to gain access multiplayer.

EA said that the Galaxy at War system can be used both in the single-player campaign and "through a suite of Mass Effect games and applications". It'll also be on iOS devices and Facebook, as was confirmed earlier today.

Galaxy at War will also connect players to their Bioware Social Network accounts and enable access to downloadable content and add-ons.

"The theme of galactic war in Mass Effect 3 presents us with the perfect opportunity to introduce multiplayer into the Mass Effect series," said Casey Hudson, Executive Producer of the Mass Effect series.

"Multiplayer not only features amazing combat and deep customisation options, but it will give players another way to help the war effort against the Reapers in the main event - the single player campaign."

Developed by Bioware Montreal, Mass Effect 3's multiplayer is a four-player co-op mode, and you're put in the shoes of an elite Special Forces unit sent to protect resources and assets that can help humanity win the war against the Reapers.

You can choose from any of the six available classes, and races: Human, Krogan, Asari, Drell, Salarian and Turian.

Bioware's released the first video detailing the how the multiplayer will work just now. The game's out in March next year for Xbox 360, PS3, and PC.

Thanks, Eurogamer.