One of the biggest controversies about Mass Effect 3 is the fact that you can make Commander Shepard come out as gay or lesbian — or if Shepard doesn't come out, another member of your squad can. There's even a controversial video of a gay love scene.

You already knew that Mass Effect is quite possibly the most important science fiction universe of our generation. But how did Mass Effect develop into such an important game? As we eagerly await the third installment of the trilogy, it's interesting to learn more about the creative choices that led us here.

Mass Effect was among the most important science-fiction works of the past few years. And Mass Effect 2 promises better alien worlds, more "alien love scenes," and a Blade Runner-inspired space station. Bioware's Casey Hudson gave us a misison briefing.