'Mass Effect: Andromeda': Scientific or Military Outpost? Here's how to decide.

Impact

As you explore the vast worlds of Mass Effect: Andromeda, you'll be able to establish outposts that act as a kind of minihub for humanity. In doing so, you have to make a decision about which of the thousands of humans you'll free from cryostasis. If you pick a military outpost, you'll thaw a bunch of soldiers, and a scientific outpost will thaw a bunch of scientists.

So, which should you choose? Don't worry, we're here to make the decision a little easier. Here's what you need to know.

Mass Effect: Andromeda: Should you pick a scientific or military outpost?

The good news is that it doesn't seem like the decision you make will have much — if any — of an impact. It seems to largely be a role-playing decision that colors the way your Ryder behaves in the world, but it doesn't seem to affect the outcome of the game in a significant way.

No matter which decision you make, a protest group will form of people who are upset with you. It's unavoidable. Similarly, when you return to talk to Tann, you'll have a slightly different reaction from everyone in the room based on what you pick — but this doesn't seem to have much of a measurable gameplay outcome.

Of course, the bad news here is the same as the good news: There's not much of a measurable effect based on what you choose. If you were expecting a groundbreaking, game-defining moment here, you're not going to get it.

If we discover these outpost decisions have a more tangible impact that we're not yet aware of, we'll keep you updated. Otherwise, feel free to pick whichever feels right in your gut.

More Mass Effect: Andromeda news, updates, tips and tricks

For more on everyone's favorite space opera, check out the rest of what Mic has to offer. Here's an essay on the troubling history of colonialism in Mass Effect, a story about the horrifying harassment campaign carried out against a former BioWare employee, a guide to removing Ryder's helmet, a guide on romancing Keri, a guide to romancing Reyes and a quick explainer on the different types of health in Andromeda.