Second Batch of Mass Effect 2 DLC Due Today

The second batch of downloadable content for BioWare's sci-fi shooter RPG Mass Effect 2 will hit PC and Xbox 360 today, bringing the promised Cerberus Assault Armor and M-22a Eviscerator Shotgun to those with access to the online Cerberus Network.

The Cerberus Assault Armor

Access to The Cerberus Network and its variety of downloadable goodies comes free with new copies of Mass Effect 2 in an effort to fight piracy and used sales--those that play a second-hand or rented copy of the game must pony up $15 for access.

But while more downloadable content, including a hover tank, is on the way, not all of the downloadable add-ons for Mass Effect 2 will be free through The Cerberus Network--developer BioWare has stated "It's not going to be all free DLC for Mass Effect 2...there'll be paid DLC packs, and there'll be stuff available through Cerberus as well."

And don't expect studio owner Electronic Arts to back away from bundling downloadable content with new games any time soon. The company recently trumpeted the success of the strategy, as it gets consumers used to the idea of going online for more content--something that becomes all the more profitable once paid DLC enters the equation.

As for the Cerberus Assault Armor and Eviscerator Shotgun, here's the breakdown:

Cerberus Assault Armor

Cerberus assault armor is designed for shock troops, turn the tide of battle against creatures or forces that would decimate normal soldiers.

Increases heavy weapon ammo capacity by +10%

Increases shields by +10%

Increases health by +10%

M-22a Eviscerator Shotgun

The M-22a Eviscerator Shotgun is a longer-range shotgun with armor-piercing loads. This design also violates several intergalactic weapons treaties, so the M-22a is not distributed to militaries.