Summary
Romancing NPCs is a key part of theMass Effectfranchise, as the series has arguably pioneered the inclusion of romantic subplots in AAA RPGs. Love stories between player-characters and in-game companions are more commonplace now, butMass Effect 4can exceed expectationsby expanding romance beyond just the player. Luckily,Mass Effect 3already provides a great example of how this can be accomplished.
Mass Effectplayers are well acquainted with Shepard’s many potential love interests. Indeed, it sometimes seems like the whole galaxy is throwing themselves at the esteemed commander, but most of the other major NPCs of the franchise seem considerably less interested in dating other people, ostensibly remaining single unless the player decides to romance them.Mass Effect 3introduces two exceptions to this rule, with Joker and EDI as well as Tali and Garrus. Joker and EDI will get together if Shepard recommends it, and Tali and Garrus will date if Shepard doesn’tromance either of them inME2or ME3. This level of reactivity, where the NPCs will engage with each other based on the player’s decisions, is a welcome addition, but a bit barebones.
Mass Effect 4 Needs to Let Companions Date Each Other
Mass Effect 3’s focus on romance outside of Shepard is a good start, butMass Effect 4could take it to the next level. Romance subplots inMass Effect, while sometimes criticized as shallow or objectifying, are often valuable, meaningful additions to the narrative experience. The world ofMEis one of brutality, uncertainty, and existential dread, but the highly stressed stars of the franchise find hope and peace in romantic pursuits. Looking at the romance plots through this lens, it seems like a shame that, for the most part, Shepard is the only character who gets a major romantic partner.
How Mass Effect 4’s NPC Romances Can Build Off Mass Effect 3
Although Tali and Garrus are some ofthebest romanceable characters inMass Effect, them ending up together still feels like a natural and satisfying turn for the story to take. Moreover, it serves to support the illusion of a world that exists outside the player, which goes a long way toward establishing immersion. The same can be said for Joker and EDI’s relationship, although the player has less of an impact on this coupling, as neither Joker nor EDI are eligible for the player to romance themselves.
Mass Effect 4should give the player more influence over the personal lives of their crew mates, taking a few notes fromME3.ME4would also be helped by taking apage out ofBaldur’s Gate 3’s book, as that game lets players play matchmaker with their party members as well, albeit differently thanME3. Ideally, the nextMass Effectwill feature a number of different potential couples outside the protagonist, with the game perhaps even allowing for love triangles or other conflicts based on the decisions made by the player.
Pursuing all potentialities related to romances between NPCs inMass Effect 4might be a bit unfeasible, as it would require BioWare to devise a number of different storylines and scenarios. Still,ME4could feature a few “key” NPC couplings with more narrative heft behind them.
There is probably an endless list of changes fans would like to see when it comes toromance inMass Effect 4, and while it’s a significant part of the franchise’s legacy, it’s hardly the most important element. At the same time, well-written romances have always helped the world ofMass Effectfeel more believable and emotionally resonant, soBioWare should try to be as creative and ambitious and possible when implementing it in the future.
Mass Effect 3
WHERE TO PLAY
Earth is burning. The Reapers have taken over, and other civilizations are falling like dominoes. Lead the final fight to save humanity and take back Earth from these terrifying machines, Commander Shepard. You’ll need backup for these battles. Fortunately, the galaxy has a habit of sending unexpected species your way. Recruit team members and forge new alliances, but be prepared to say goodbye at any time as partners make the ultimate sacrifice. It’s time for Commander Shepard to fight for the fate of the human race and save the galaxy. No pressure, Commander.Fight smarter.Take advantage of new powers and combat moves. Shepard can now blind-fire at enemies and build tougher melee attacks. Plus, when you fight as a team, you can combine new biotic and tech powers to unleash devastating Power Combos.Build the final force.Build a team from a variety of races and classes, and combine their skills to overcome impossible odds. You’ll be joined by newcomers like James Vega, a tough-as-nails soldier, as well as EDI, a trusted AI in a newly acquired physical form. Keep an eye out for beloved characters from your past, but beware. Some may not survive the final battle….Face off against friends.Enjoy an integrated, co-op multiplayer mode, and team up with friends online to liberate key conflict zones from increasingly tough opponents. Customize your warrior and earn new weapons, armor and abilities to build war preparedness stats in your single-player campaign.
