BioWare has officially announced the development of Mass Effect 2. The second chapter to the popular science-fiction trilogy will be available for the PC and Xbox 360 in early 2010.

We don’t know much about the game at this stage, but here’s what the press release had to say:

“The Mass Effect trilogy is a masterful science-fiction adventure set in a vast universe filled with dangerous alien life forms and mysterious uncharted planets. In this dark second chapter, Saren’s evil army of Geth soldiers has just been defeated, and humans, still struggling to make their mark on the galactic stage, are now faced with an even greater peril…”

The question on everybody’s lips at present is will Commander Shepard make an appearance in Mass Effect 2. Watch the debut trailer below to find out more.

“We’re going to surpass the extraordinary gaming experience we brought our fans in Mass Effect by delivering intensified combat and expanded weapon options as well as increased depth of planet exploration, all while delivering a powerful, emotionally engaging story,” said Dr. Ray Muzyka, General Manager and CEO, BioWare and General Manager and Vice President, EA.

“Mass Effect 2 is shaping up to be an unforgettable RPG-shooter experience, taking players on a non-stop roller-coaster ride filled with stunning plot twists and no-holds-barred action.”