mass-effect-3
Running around on the Citadel, I have noticed minor conflicts that arise where you can side with one of 2 people. After siding with them, I have noticed in the corner of the screen "War Asset Updated!"
The question lies in that, are there any of these that have a major impact on the war assets, or are they just small boosts/decrements that you can obtain or are there even any that do decrease war assets? Also, is there a set amount of them that pop up?
No, the journal gives no indication whether you've completed the objective or not. If you have, you will be able to talk to the quest giver, otherwise you won't.
In general, important people and items stand out from the background. If at any point you get lost, pressing the map button (on pc, this is V) can help find your way. Additionally, important people in friendly areas (like the Citadel) are often talking over the crowd loud enough to catch players' attention.
While in a combat zone, this will highlight a point of interest such as a quest objective.
In a friendly area, it will bring up a map with all nearby people of interest listed)
Best Answer
Yes, there is a finite number of those, as they require scripts and voice acting. The effect most of them have is fairly negligible, but it doesn't hurt to grab them when they're available. Promoting charity, security and indiscriminate help will result in the best effect.
Some of them will have significant consequences, notably the arguments between Quarian admirals.