Last week saw the release of Mass Effect 3 - the cataclysmic concluding chapter of BioWare's sci-fi trilogy.

If you're looking for a little boost to your Galactic Readiness rating, or just can't get enough of the Mass Effect universe, then the Mass Effect 3 Datapad is the app for you.

It's available now on the App Store, and it won't cost you a penny.

This companion application gives you access to the Mass Effect codex database, so you can review information from all three games in the trilogy.

News bulletins from the Alliance News Network are another source of in-app info on the progress of the galactic war effort.

You'll also receive updates and in-app messages from Mass Effect 3 characters after you interact with them in the game.

It seems a bit weird that your crack team would take such frequent breaks from saving the galaxy to IM their commander, but maybe that's just futuristic good manners.

Finally, and most importantly, you can manage the Galaxy at War system through the app. This is essentially a strategic meta-game that directly influences your Galactic Readiness rating in Mass Effect 3 - and the outcome of your fight against the Reapers.

So, if you're already knee-deep in Mass Effect 3's challenging campaign, then this free app may just give you the edge you need.