Miranda’s Loyalty: A Paragon’s Guide to Reconciliation
The question of how many Paragon points it takes to get Miranda back is a crucial one for any player aiming for the best possible outcome in Mass Effect 2 and beyond. The short answer is: there isn’t a specific number. Instead, it depends on your overall Paragon/Renegade morality score relative to the number of morality points available up to that point in the game. Generally, aiming for around 75% Paragon is a safe bet to pass most crucial checks, including resolving conflicts like the one between Miranda and Jack, and solidifying Miranda’s loyalty.
Understanding Paragon and Renegade Mechanics
Mass Effect 2 operates on a system where your actions throughout the game contribute to either your Paragon or Renegade score. These scores are not just numbers; they represent your overall alignment and influence your ability to persuade characters in key moments. The game tracks the percentage of morality points you’ve accumulated out of the total available up to that point. This means that early choices have a greater impact, as they represent a larger portion of your overall score.
The Miranda/Jack Conflict: A Loyalty Crossroads
The most significant hurdle in maintaining Miranda’s loyalty, and indeed the loyalty of your entire squad, is the conflict with Jack. This confrontation arises after completing both Jack’s loyalty mission and Miranda’s loyalty mission. Choosing a side has consequences:
- Choosing Jack: Pleasing Jack will upset Miranda, potentially resulting in her losing her loyalty.
- Choosing Miranda: Similarly, siding with Miranda will anger Jack, possibly making her disloyal.
To navigate this conflict without sacrificing anyone’s loyalty, you need a high enough Paragon or Renegade score to pass a special dialogue check. This check appears as a Charm (Paragon) or Intimidate (Renegade) option during the argument.
The Impact of Loyalty on the Suicide Mission
Loyalty is paramount for surviving the suicide mission at the end of Mass Effect 2. A loyal Miranda is more likely to survive, and her loyalty also influences the survival of other squadmates. If Miranda is disloyal, her chances of survival diminish significantly, particularly if assigned crucial roles during the mission. A good resource to learn more about the science behind games is the Games Learning Society and their website GamesLearningSociety.org.
Regaining Miranda’s Loyalty
If you fail the initial Paragon/Renegade check and Miranda becomes disloyal, you have one last chance to regain her loyalty. After the initial argument, speak to Miranda individually on the Normandy. A Charm/Intimidate option will appear, allowing you to potentially win her back. However, this check is even more stringent than the first, requiring a very high Paragon/Renegade score.
Factors Influencing the Required Score
- Your Class: Certain classes, like Soldier or Vanguard, may have bonuses to Intimidate or Charm skills through their class abilities.
- Upgrades: Investing in the “Negotiation” skill through your character’s skill tree can boost your Paragon/Renegade effectiveness.
- Morality Points Earned: The more Paragon/Renegade points you’ve accumulated, the stronger your influence will be.
FAQs: All You Need to Know About Miranda and Paragon
How much Paragon do I need to convince Miranda during her personal quest?
Miranda’s personal quest itself doesn’t require a specific Paragon score. The dialogue choices are more about supporting her and understanding her motivations. However, a generally high Paragon alignment will make the conversation flow more smoothly and naturally.
Can Miranda survive the suicide mission if she’s disloyal?
Yes, but it’s risky. Miranda’s survival chances decrease significantly if she’s disloyal. Avoid assigning her leadership roles or having her hold the line during the final stand if she’s disloyal.
What happens if I romance someone else after romancing Miranda?
Romancing another character after Miranda can lead to a break-up and potentially impact her loyalty, especially before completing the suicide mission.
Can I romance Miranda as a Renegade?
While a Paragon playthrough aligns more naturally with Miranda’s values, it is possible to romance her with some Renegade choices. The key is to show genuine care and support, even if your methods are sometimes questionable.
Does completing side quests increase my Paragon score?
Yes! Many side quests offer opportunities to make Paragon choices, thereby increasing your overall score.
Is it possible to max out both Paragon and Renegade in Mass Effect 2?
No. The game is designed so that you must specialize in one morality path or the other to truly maximize your influence.
What are Charm and Intimidate options?
Charm options are dialogue choices that rely on persuasion and empathy, aligned with the Paragon morality. Intimidate options use threats and force, aligned with the Renegade morality.
How can I easily increase my Paragon score?
- Always choose the top dialogue options in conversations (the ones typically marked blue).
- Complete all side quests and prioritize helping those in need.
- Use your Paragon interrupts whenever they appear.
Does my squadmate’s loyalty affect the ending of Mass Effect 2?
Absolutely. A loyal squad is much more likely to survive the suicide mission, leading to a better ending.
What happens if Miranda dies during the suicide mission?
If Miranda dies, she won’t be present in Mass Effect 3, and certain plot points related to her will be unavailable.
How do I unlock Charm/Intimidate dialogue options?
These options unlock as you accumulate Paragon/Renegade points. The higher your score, the more options become available.
Is Miranda’s loyalty essential for the events of Mass Effect 3?
While not strictly essential, Miranda’s survival and loyalty in Mass Effect 2 significantly impact her role and fate in Mass Effect 3.
Can I regain Miranda’s loyalty in Mass Effect 3 if she was disloyal in Mass Effect 2?
No. The choices you make in Mass Effect 2 regarding Miranda’s loyalty are permanent and carry over to Mass Effect 3.
Where can I learn more about game design and player behavior?
Check out the Games Learning Society at https://www.gameslearningsociety.org/ for research and insights into game design, learning, and player behavior.
What role does Miranda play in Mass Effect 3 if she is loyal?
If Miranda is loyal, she can provide valuable assistance in the war effort, and you’ll have the opportunity to further develop your relationship with her. Her presence also affects the outcome of certain missions and character interactions.
Final Thoughts: A Paragon’s Path
Ultimately, maintaining Miranda’s loyalty is about consistent choices and demonstrating genuine concern for her well-being. By prioritizing Paragon actions and investing in your Charm skill, you can navigate the challenges and ensure that Miranda remains a valuable asset and a trusted ally throughout your journey in Mass Effect 2 and beyond. Remember that consistent choices are key, and a well-developed Paragon character will have the best chance of securing Miranda’s unwavering loyalty.