Microsoft has announced that developer Bioware's action-RPG Mass Effect will blast onto shelves on November 20 and November 23 in North America and Europe respectively.

The Xbox 360 exclusive takes place in the year 2183, with players stepping into the shoes of an elite human solider named Commander Shepard. His mission: to explore a vast universe in his trusty ship, the SS Normandy. Of course, though,  it isn't as simple as just jollying through outer space without a care in the world. Shepard's mission involves defending his people against an alien race that attacks from beyond the human realm.

"With Mass Effect, BioWare is delivering an incredible next-gen gaming odyssey. Our fans will journey through a vast, futuristic universe as they are challenged to make impactful decisions that will determine the very fate of the galaxy," said Ray Muzyka, BioWare’s chief executive officer.

"The best games bring players into an immersive, realistic world that is fun to explore from beginning to end. We've achieved that in Mass Effect by putting the player at the centre of a compelling, cinematic storyline full of realistic characters and hundreds of exciting locations," added Greg Zeschuk, president of BioWare.

Best get warmed up... with a little Bioshock or Halo 3, perhaps.