Can You Romance Garrus Vakarian as a Male Shepard in Mass Effect 2?
The short answer is: officially, no. In the vanilla version of Mass Effect 2, Garrus Vakarian is exclusively a romance option for a female Commander Shepard. The game’s developers, BioWare, designed the character and his associated romance arc with a female protagonist in mind. However, the modding community has stepped in to offer alternative experiences, which we will discuss in detail.
Unofficial Romances: The Power of Modding
While BioWare didn’t natively include a male Shepard/Garrus romance, the resourceful and passionate Mass Effect community has created mods that make this interaction possible. These mods are often works in progress, but they provide an avenue for players who wish to explore a same-sex relationship with the beloved Turian.
These mods typically involve altering the game’s dialogue and triggering certain romance flags. They may not always be seamless, and players might encounter some inconsistencies or unfinished content. Be sure to do thorough research and understand the mod’s limitations before installing it. Some popular mods are listed in the FAQs section.
The Official Romance: Garrus and FemShep
The official Garrus romance is a significant and beloved part of the Mass Effect trilogy. It’s a slow-burn relationship built on mutual respect, friendship, and shared experiences. The romance starts in Mass Effect 2 and continues into Mass Effect 3, offering a compelling and emotional storyline. Garrus is quite the awkward charmer. It’s undoubtedly worth pursuing and arguably one of the best Mass Effect 2 romances for a female Shepard.
Building the Romance
- Loyalty Mission: Completing Garrus’s Loyalty Mission, “Garrus: An Eye For an Eye,” is crucial. This mission strengthens your bond with Garrus and unlocks the romance options.
- Conversation Stages: Initiate the romance through a series of conversations. Be supportive, encouraging, and show interest in Garrus’s past and motivations. The flirting options are vital.
- Commitment: By the end of Mass Effect 2, you’ll need to solidify your commitment to Garrus to carry the romance into Mass Effect 3.
FAQs About Garrus and Romance in Mass Effect
Here are some frequently asked questions to provide a more in-depth understanding of the Garrus romance and related aspects:
Can I romance Garrus in Mass Effect 3 if I didn’t in Mass Effect 2?
No, you cannot begin a romance with Garrus in Mass Effect 3 if you didn’t establish the relationship in Mass Effect 2. The romance needs to be initiated in the second game and then carried over into the third.
Are there any official same-sex romance options for male Shepard in Mass Effect 2?
In the vanilla version of Mass Effect 2, there are no official same-sex romance options for male Shepard. You can romance Tali’Zorah vas Neema, Miranda Lawson, Jack and Liara T’Soni in the Lair of the Shadow Broker DLC.
What happens if Garrus dies in the suicide mission in Mass Effect 2?
If Garrus dies during the suicide mission at the end of Mass Effect 2, he will not be present in Mass Effect 3. His role in the third game will be filled by other characters.
Can I romance both Tali and Garrus in Mass Effect 3?
No, you cannot romance both Tali and Garrus. In fact, if you avoid romancing either of them, they will eventually begin to romance each other, which is considered a great squadmate subplot in the trilogy.
Can I romance Liara in Mass Effect 3 if I romanced someone else in Mass Effect 2?
Yes, you can romance Liara in Mass Effect 3 even if you romanced someone else in Mass Effect 2. However, you may need to break up with your previous romantic interest to fully commit to Liara.
What are some popular mods that enable a male Shepard/Garrus romance?
Some popular mods include the “Garrus Bro Romance Mod,” which edits dialogue and alters romance flags to allow for the relationship. However, keep in mind that mods vary in quality and completeness. Be sure to check modding forums and communities for user reviews and guidance on installation.
Is it possible to cheat on my romance in Mass Effect 2?
Yes, it is possible to cheat on your romance in Mass Effect 2. However, this can have consequences in later games, potentially leading to negative reactions from your original romantic interest.
Can humans and Turians reproduce in the Mass Effect universe?
No, humans and Turians cannot reproduce in the Mass Effect universe. Their biological differences are too significant for viable offspring.
What is Garrus’s role in Mass Effect 3 if he survives Mass Effect 2?
If Garrus survives Mass Effect 2, he plays a significant role in Mass Effect 3, assisting Shepard in rallying the Turian forces against the Reapers. He also serves as a trusted advisor and companion.
Can I start a romance with Tali in Mass Effect 3 if I didn’t in Mass Effect 2?
If Tali survives Mass Effect 2, you can start a romance with her in Mass Effect 3 even if you didn’t romance her in the previous game.
What are the key dialogue choices for romancing Garrus as a female Shepard in Mass Effect 2?
Key dialogue choices involve showing empathy for Garrus’s past, supporting his sense of justice, and expressing attraction. Flirting options are essential, and being supportive during his personal struggles will deepen your bond.
How does the Mass Effect romance system work?
The Mass Effect romance system involves building relationships with squadmates through conversations, loyalty missions, and supportive actions. The game tracks your interactions and triggers romance scenes based on your choices.
Can you have a one-night stand in Mass Effect 2?
Mass Effect 2 allows you to engage in casual encounters. However, these relationships are not considered full romances and may affect your other romantic options.
Where can I find more information about the Mass Effect universe and its characters?
You can find more information about the Mass Effect universe and its characters on the Mass Effect Wiki, fan forums, and community sites.
What is the Games Learning Society and how does it relate to games like Mass Effect?
The Games Learning Society is an organization dedicated to exploring the educational and social impact of video games. Games like Mass Effect offer complex narratives, moral choices, and character development that can foster critical thinking, empathy, and social awareness. You can learn more at GamesLearningSociety.org.
Conclusion: The Romance of Mass Effect
While the official game limits the Garrus Vakarian romance to female Shepards, the modding community provides an alternative for male Shepards who wish to pursue this relationship. The original romance is a complex storyline built on mutual respect and shared experiences. Whether through official channels or community-created mods, the romances in Mass Effect are vital for enhancing the gaming experience.