I started Mass Effect 2...never played through the first one. I enjoyed the 3-4 hours I played but I wouldn't say it's one of the best games I've ever played. Have I just not got far enough into it yet? Should've played the first one before playing 2?
I would say yes. To me, the story in ME1 was much stronger than what we got in ME2, which was in essence, pretty looking - but a bit of a 'filler' I would say. I know that'll contradict pretty much everyone else in this thread that loves Me2...its good, just not great, IMO
That said, if you didnt like ME2, I am not sure if ME3 will be much different, but I am not far enough into it yet.