Mass Effect 3 'Retaliation' multiplayer DLC brings back Collectors, adds new classes and more

Thought you got rid of the Collectors in Mass Effect 2? Thank again, because these insectoid drones are coming to Mass Effect 3 next week in a new piece of DLC. No, it's not for single-player, unfortunately, but at least that means the content will be free.

The new multiplayer add-on, titled "Retaliation," reintroduces Collector's as a new enemy faction for Mass Effect 3's co-op mode. Don't worry, because the DLC also throws in new playable characters too, including the Turian Havoc Soldier, Turian Ghost Infiltrator, and others.

In terms of maps, the existing rotation will get "Hazard" versions, which basically adds different hazards like Acid, Lightning, Sandstorms, and more, depending on which Firebase you're on. Here's a look at Swarm:

New upgrades and Collector weapons will join the mix too, though as usual,  you're going to have to unlock them over time, just like the new class kits mentioned above.

The new Challenges aim to bring more variety as well, so that's good news for anyone who's been finding the co-op rather stale lately. The feature works a bit like Halo Waypoint and similar services, where players can earn banners to show off their multiplayer prowess and track their overall progress and performance (i.e. your weapons usage). By completing mini-goals based on these stats, you can earn Challenge Points over time for special unlocks.

Mass Effect 3: Retaliation will be out on October 9 for PS3, Xbox 360, and PC. That's October 10, if you happen to be in Europe.

Oh, and whose voice is that? You know, the fellow we wanted to but couldn't fight in the campaign.