This game is just amazing. I have no problem recommending this to you.
Basically you start off as (your name) Shepard , there is the typical "save the universe" story, but it is so much more, the story alone will keep you coming back for more. Your choices affect what you want to do in the future, your stats I.E. persuasion,intimidation,commando, etc will alter alot of the parts of the game, at some points, the persuasion/intimidation stats really come in handy.
you will NOT enjoy this game if you enjoyed 25 to life, a basic understanding of story-telling is required to play this game (The gamer illiterate specifically) was ignored in this game, which is good, since look what happened to spore when they targeted that audience.
The visuals: id give it a 8.5-9/10 , at times textures load in akwardly, or you see some spots that could use some work..... but the in-engine conversations are great, you can see every wrinkle on rex's face, and the explosions were done well.
The audio: The music is outstanding, the sound effects are also amazing, one of the best soundtracks for a game i've heard.
the gameplay: 8.5/10 great for the most part, at times the aiming seems clunky for close range, and blind-firing would of been great if it was included in this game.
the story: 10/10 one of the best of 2007 AND 2008, the story just kept me up until 2 AM sometimes just for me to see what happens next.