The developers created extensive background lore for the universe of Mass Effect and its alien species, with detailed explanations documenting the complex relationships between the universe's various factions and the setting's phenomena from a scientific perspective. Dark energy, a form of energy theorized to massively affect the universe, forms a key part of the franchise's concept and background. The developers of the originating video game series drew inspiration and influencefrom numerous fantasy and science fiction works, as well as real world cultural and scientific concepts. The Mass Effect media franchise, developed by BioWare and published by Electronic Arts, is set in an alternate universe consisting of innumerable worlds populated by sentient alien civilizations that coexist with humanity. The Art of the Mass Effect Universe, a 2012 publication which contains concept art and commentary by BioWare staff on the characters, locations, vehicles, and weapons of the Mass Effect universe.
