1. a Japanese Xbox 360 (recent 60gb model)
2. a copy of the Japanese version of Mass Effect 1
3. a copy of the American version of Mass Effect 1 (Platinum Hits version, w/BDTS DLC included on bonus disc)
4. a copy of the American version of Mass Effect 2 (Regular)
First off, there are no region locks on the American versions of Mass Effect 1 and 2, as far as I can tell. They both work just fine on a Japanese 360. However, the Japanese version will most likely not work with consoles from other regions (this is standard fare for many Japanese region games, I understand).
However, what's even more interesting (and useful) is that save files from the Japanese and American versions of these games are also fully compatible. I have been able to load saves from the Japanese version of ME1 in the American version, and vice versa.
Furthermore, it is possible to generate an End-Of-Game save file in the Japanese region version, and then import said save into the American version of ME2. I have tested this with two characters, one with the default name "John" written in Katakana, the other with her name written in Roman letters. (The first character's name appears as three blank boxes, due to the fact that it's written in Katakana. This hasn't had any effect on the rest of the game, however, or caused any technical problems).
This might mean that it will be possible to import a character created in the American version of ME1 into the Japanese version of ME2. However, since ME2 is not out in Japan yet, there's no way to confirm this as of now, but I would consider it very likely at this point. What this all means regarding US/EU region compatibility, I cannot say. Someone else is going to have to test that, but at the very least, this information should offer some answers and assuage people's fears.
As for downloadable content, I have been able to register with, access and download DLC from the Cerberus Network without any problems. As far as I can tell, this content is not listed as being available in the Japanese XBL Marketplace (for obvious reasons). I'm speculating, but this probably means that the Cerberus Network acts as a conduit for said content, potentially making it available in regions where it would otherwise not be. A somewhat unusual exception for XBL, but a useful one at that, if it turns out to be true.
I have yet to test the "Bring Down The Sky" DLC included on the bonus disc. It is likely that it won't work with the Japanese language version of the game, being that it is only in English (I assume). It is also unknown what impact this DLC will have on the saves I have created so far, but it may cause technical problems, so I am proceeding with caution. I will test it eventually, if requested. (Additional note regarding DLC and achievements: Both Pinnacle Station and BDTS achievements are listed in the Japanese version of the game, even though the only contents currently available in the Japanese Marketplace are avatar items and trailers).
That's all for now. I'll field questions as best I can. I can also provide photos and possibly videos if someone is looking for a more concrete confirmation.
Further notes and addenda:
1. Have also tested Dragon Age: Origins (NTSC/UC) on the same console. Works like a charm. No region lock here either, it seems. However, I have been unable to download any additional content, as it is apparently not available through the Japanese XBL marketplace. I'm guessing it has something to do with the way the Cerberus network handles its DLC.
2. Some people, myself included, tend to use the term "region free" when asking whether a game is "region locked" or not. Technically, games are hardly ever "region free" (non-localized). That doesn't necessarily mean they are "region locked" (i.e. unplayable on systems from different regions).
Evil Chris said something to the effect of Mass Effect not being "region free", in an oft-quoted post. This is absolutely true. However, it appears that Mass Effect is not region locked, in which case he was either confusing the two terms, or he was simply lying through his teeth, as befits his blackened, evil heart.
Happy gaming.
Modifié par QuantumSponge, 20 mars 2010 - 05:09 .
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