The Cerberus Network offered users daily updates to the Mass Effect universe, often fleshing out the background of the series in text as well as through free downloadable content. While DLC has since shifted to a premium model--the last of which put players on the trail of the mysterious Shadow Broker--daily text updates from the "Cerberus Daily News" have continued.

According to the latest update, daily postings will cease, beginning January 24, but will launch again "for three weeks" in 2011. "A week of posts will precede a downloadable content release, and two more weeks will lead up to the release of Mass Effect 3," the update notes.

It's unclear if the downloadable content coming before the release of Mass Effect 3 will be offered for Cerberus users for free or offered at a premium. Shacknews has contacted EA for more details.

Mass Effect 2 launches for the PlayStation 3 on January 18 in North America and on January 21 across Europe. Mass Effect 3 is expected to arrive this holiday for PC, Xbox 360, and PlayStation 3.