Why Does Wrex Stay with Shepard?
Wrex, the battle-hardened krogan warrior, becomes a loyal member of Commander Shepard’s crew primarily due to a shared goal: to stop the renegade Spectre Saren Arterius. Initially, his reasons are practical: He is hired to eliminate Fist, a key figure in the criminal underworld tied to Saren. However, his motivations evolve as he witnesses Shepard’s determination to fight Saren and uncover the truth about the Reapers. Wrex’s respect for Shepard grows from a simple mercenary contract to a deep sense of loyalty and camaraderie, rooted in Shepard’s willingness to challenge the status quo and stand against a seemingly insurmountable threat. Shepard’s actions, particularly on Virmire, can solidify this bond, as Shepard defends Wrex’s beliefs and stands up for the krogan people. Ultimately, Wrex stays with Shepard because he sees Shepard as a leader who can not only defeat Saren but potentially offer hope for the future of the krogan race.
Factors Influencing Wrex’s Loyalty
Shared Mission and Mutual Respect
Wrex is a seasoned mercenary and bounty hunter, but he is also a warrior with a sense of honor and a deep concern for his people. When Shepard seeks Wrex’s help to take down Fist, who is involved in Saren’s conspiracy, Wrex sees it as a mutually beneficial arrangement. However, as the mission progresses, Wrex begins to respect Shepard’s dedication to stopping Saren and saving the galaxy. This respect deepens into loyalty as Wrex witnesses Shepard’s courage, leadership, and commitment to fighting for the greater good. The fact that Shepard is willing to trust and rely on Wrex, a krogan, also contributes to his loyalty. Many humans mistrust the krogan due to their violent history and reputation, so Shepard’s willingness to look beyond stereotypes earns Wrex’s respect.
Shepard’s Actions on Virmire
The mission to Virmire is a pivotal moment in Wrex’s relationship with Shepard. During this mission, Shepard discovers that Saren is attempting to cure the genophage, a biological weapon that has severely limited the krogan population for centuries. Wrex is initially ecstatic at the prospect of a cure, believing it will restore the krogan to their former glory. However, Shepard must convince Wrex that Saren’s motives are not altruistic and that Saren intends to use the krogan as cannon fodder in his war against the galaxy.
If Shepard successfully persuades Wrex that Saren cannot be trusted, using either Charm or Intimidate dialogue options, Wrex will stand down and reaffirm his loyalty to Shepard. This is a crucial moment in their relationship, as it demonstrates Shepard’s ability to influence Wrex and steer him away from a potentially disastrous path. Successfully navigating this confrontation strengthens the bond between them.
Potential for Krogan Redemption
Beyond the immediate threat of Saren, Wrex sees in Shepard an opportunity for the krogan race to improve its standing in the galaxy. He believes that by fighting alongside Shepard, the krogan can prove their worth and demonstrate that they are not simply mindless warriors. Wrex hopes that this will lead to greater acceptance and respect for the krogan in the future. Later, if Wrex is alive in Mass Effect 2 and Mass Effect 3, his vision for a revitalized Krogan society aligned with Shepard’s values directly influences pivotal events that determine the fate of the entire galaxy. Understanding the impact of narrative-driven choice and consequence is core to game studies, and further explores the benefits of games in education at the Games Learning Society.
Consequences of Killing Wrex
While it is possible to kill Wrex, either intentionally or unintentionally, doing so has significant consequences for the storyline and Shepard’s reputation. Killing Wrex eliminates a powerful and loyal ally, weakens Shepard’s team, and can lead to negative repercussions later in the series. It can also make it more difficult to gain the support of the krogan in the fight against the Reapers in Mass Effect 3. Wrex’s death also removes a crucial perspective on krogan culture and history from Shepard’s team, which can affect Shepard’s understanding of the galaxy and the challenges it faces.
Wrex’s Significance in the Mass Effect Universe
Wrex is more than just a musclebound krogan warrior. He is a complex character with a rich history, a strong sense of honor, and a deep concern for the future of his people. His presence in Shepard’s crew adds depth and complexity to the story, and his interactions with other characters provide valuable insights into the krogan culture and the challenges they face. Wrex is also a valuable source of information about Saren and the Reapers, as he has firsthand experience with their brutality.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. How old is Wrex?
We don’t have an exact age, but considering his experiences and references to the Krogan Rebellions, he is likely over 1,000 years old. Krogan lifespans are exceptionally long.
2. Did Wrex fight in the Krogan Rebellion?
The provided article doesn’t definitively state that Wrex fought in the Rebellion. However, it is likely that he was alive during those years.
3. What happens if Wrex dies on Virmire?
If Wrex is killed on Virmire, either by Shepard or Ashley, you will not have him as a squadmate in subsequent games. This will alter the Krogan storyline in Mass Effect 2 and 3, often leading to less favorable outcomes for the Krogan and galactic peace.
4. Why did Ashley shoot Wrex?
Ashley shot Wrex because she perceived him as a threat during a tense standoff regarding Saren’s intentions on Virmire. She believed he was about to turn against Shepard, endangering the mission and Shepard’s life. Her decision was based on her duty to protect her superior officer.
5. Can you save Wrex with Renegade options?
Yes, you can save Wrex with Renegade dialogue options. You need a high enough Renegade or Paragon score and at least 8 points in Charm or Intimidate. This persuasion will convince him that Saren is using the krogan.
6. What happens if you kill Wrex?
If you kill Wrex, you miss out on having him as a squadmate in later games. This impacts the krogan storyline, particularly the Genophage cure and the Krogan’s role in the Reaper War.
7. How do you get Wrex in Mass Effect 1?
Wrex joins Shepard after Shepard is tasked with taking down Fist in the Citadel. After this mission, you will have the option to recruit him into your squad.
8. Is it better to cure the Genophage or not?
The decision to cure the Genophage is a complex one with no easy answer. There are compelling arguments on both sides. Curing it offers hope for the krogan future but also raises concerns about overpopulation and potential aggression. Your decision significantly impacts the overall narrative.
9. How old is Garrus Vakarian?
Garrus is around 25 years old during the events of Mass Effect 1.
10. How old is Tali’Zorah?
Tali’Zorah is 22 years old during Mass Effect 1.
11. Why do people love Garrus so much?
Garrus is beloved for his loyalty, humor, and unwavering support of Shepard. His character development throughout the series and his genuine friendship make him a fan favorite.
12. What is the best way to gain Paragon and Renegade Points?
Paragon Points are earned by being empathetic and considerate, while Renegade Points are earned by being direct and ruthless. Consistent choices aligned with either path will maximize your score. Complete all side quests as they will offer a significant morality point boost.
13. What are morality points?
Morality points can determine if you can unlock certain dialogue options, if you can save squad mates during missions, or if you can persuade others.
14. What does it mean to be Paragon?
Being Paragon means you are compassionate, diplomatic, and seek peaceful solutions. You value cooperation and understanding, and strive to do what is right for the greater good.
15. What does it mean to be Renegade?
Being Renegade means you are assertive, pragmatic, and willing to use force to achieve your goals. You prioritize efficiency and results, and are not afraid to make difficult choices, even if they are morally questionable.
Understanding the nuances of character motivations and how player choices impact the narrative is a cornerstone of game studies, and further explores the benefits of games in education at the GamesLearningSociety.org.