One of the more blatant similarities between Mass Effect and Star Wars is that both have their own form of space magic. Star Wars of course has the Force, a mysterious power that flows through all living beings and can be used for good or evil. Mass Effects equivalent to this is biotics, in which certain people are able to create mass effect fields through the manipulation of element zero. Both are pretty far out there concepts, but where Star Wars faults is in its explanation. Everyone knows the whole midi-chlorian explanation in The Phantom Menace and how it ruined the magic of the Force for many fans. Mass Effects biotics at least has a solid explanation behind it through the incorporation of technology integral to the function of its world, so the explanation didnt come out of nowhere like midi-chlorians did. Biotic powers also offer a more diverse set of abilities than the Force does. Sure, the Force has lightning and mind control, but biotic powers allow one to create singularities, augment their strength and speed, or rip their enemy apart at a molecular level. The fact that they are based on compelling and believable science fiction concepts only makes them more fascinating. Basically, while the Force is more mystical and fantastical, biotics are rooted in science, at least as explained in the world of Mass Effect. And science is always cooler than mysticism.
