The Citadel DLC is one of the most loved parts of Mass Effect 3, but the option to start the mission is not available right away. Citadel is a lighthearted adventure compared to the rest of Mass Effect 3's story. In the DLC, Shepard and their whole squad, including newcomers Samantha Traynor and Steve Cortez, fight against a mysterious entity bent on hijacking the Normandy during the squad's required Shore Leave. There are two main parts to Citadel. The first is the main line of missions. The second part allows Shepard to reconnect and spend quality time with everyone who ever served on their squad, past and present, play some mini games to earn credits and other prizes, rekindle or continue romances, and throw a final get-together at their apartment.
Starting the Mass Effect 3 Citadel DLC is simple but can be overlooked if players aren't sure what to watch for. While the other three DLCs for Mass Effect 3 appear almost from the start of the main story, Citadel does not unlock until almost halfway through the main campaign. Even then, it can be difficult to know when to play it to make the most sense for the rest of the story. Here's how to start the Citadel DLC in Mass Effect 3.
The Citadel DLC for Mass Effect 3 launches from Anderson's Apartment on the Citadel. At some point following Priority: Citadel II, Shepard will receive word from Admiral Hackett at their Private Terminal that the Normandy requires repairs. Hackett will order Shepard to dry dock at some point to make these repairs and for the crew and companions to get some shore leave. Hackett also notes that Shepard may use Anderson's apartment in the Wards as lodging.
After receiving this message, the next time the Normandy heads to the Citadel, players will be prompted to select a landing area. One available option will be Anderson's Apartment. Choosing this landing zone will launch the Citadel DLC. Players should note that, once this is done, there is no way to return to the Normandy until at least the main storyline of Citadel has been completed. It is also possible they will be prevented from returning to the Silversun Strip once they take the Normandy and leave in the second part of the DLC.
Though Citadel can technically be started any time in the main campaign following Priority: Citadel II, most fans save this DLC to be the very last thing they do before the endgame. That means players will need to have completed all missions up to Priority: Cerberus Headquarters before landing at Anderson's Apartment. Due to the tonal shift and the bittersweet reunions with former squadmates, the DLC serves as a suitable farewell ahead of Mass Effect 3's explosive and controversial ending. Completing Citadel any time earlier in Mass Effect 3 may prevent Shepard from bringing along and engaging with Kaidan or Ashley, Javik, and Tali, as they are often recruited following Priority: Citadel II.
Mass Effect Legendary Edition is available for PC, PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5, Xbox One, and Xbox Series X/S.
