Mass Effect is a squad-based action RPG; what game mechanics make it different from other action RPGs?

Mass Effect takes an interesting approach, by providing the depth of a complex RPG, while doing so in new ways and cleaner interfaces. Whereas some action RPGs make things simpler by providing fewer options for the player, Mass Effect provides the level of options found in the more hardcore RPGs but does it in ways that are much more accessible.

For example, our philosophy for the combat system is “complex behavior through simple controls”. So instead of having a complicated series of buttons and menus to give orders to your squad, we provide one simple interface (Squad Control) which can be made to do an amazing variety of things.