How Many Years Pass Between Mass Effect 1 and Mass Effect 2?
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Two years pass between the events of Mass Effect (2007) and Mass Effect 2 (2010). Commander Shepard’s harrowing experience battling Saren and Sovereign in the first game sets the stage for a galaxy on the brink, and those two years are crucial in understanding the shift in alliances, threats, and Shepard’s own personal journey. The galaxy doesn’t stand still, and neither does Shepard.
Frequently Asked Questions About the Mass Effect Timeline
Understanding the timeline of the Mass Effect trilogy is essential for fully appreciating the story and character development. Here are 15 frequently asked questions to clarify the chronology of this epic saga:
1. What year does Mass Effect 1 take place?
The main events of Mass Effect 1 occur in 2183 CE. This is when Commander Shepard begins their journey as a Spectre and investigates the rogue Turian Spectre, Saren Arterius, ultimately uncovering the looming threat of the Reapers.
2. What year does Mass Effect 2 take place?
Mass Effect 2 takes place in 2185 CE. Two years have passed since the events of the first game. Shepard is resurrected by Cerberus and tasked with stopping the Collectors, a race abducting human colonies.
3. How many years pass in the entire Mass Effect trilogy?
Despite the galaxy-spanning events and the impending doom of the Reapers, the entire original Mass Effect trilogy takes place over the course of approximately three years.
4. When does Mass Effect 3 begin?
Mass Effect 3 begins in 2186 CE, just six months after the events of Mass Effect 2. The Reapers have arrived, and the galaxy is plunged into a full-scale war for survival.
5. How many years after Mass Effect 3 is Andromeda set?
Mass Effect: Andromeda takes place approximately 600 years after the conclusion of the original Mass Effect trilogy. This is a significant time jump, setting the stage for a new galaxy and new challenges, completely separate from the Reaper threat.
6. Is Shepard mentioned in Mass Effect: Andromeda?
While Shepard does not physically appear in Mass Effect: Andromeda, they are referenced in conversations and audio logs. Liara T’Soni sends messages to Alec Ryder, the player character’s father, mentioning Shepard and the events of the Reaper War. Players can even select Shepard’s gender at the start of the game, a subtle nod to the legacy of the original trilogy.
7. Does Mass Effect 2 carry over to Mass Effect 3?
Yes, your choices, character level, and some squad members from Mass Effect 2 will carry over to Mass Effect 3. This allows for a more personalized and impactful narrative experience, where your previous decisions have tangible consequences.
8. Why was the ending of Mass Effect 3 so controversial?
The ending of Mass Effect 3 was met with considerable controversy due to criticisms of its perceived lack of closure, plot holes, narrative inconsistencies, and the feeling that character choices were rendered inconsequential. Many fans felt the original ending did not adequately reward their investment in the story and characters.
9. Is there a canon ending for Mass Effect 3?
As of now, there is no definitively confirmed canon ending for Mass Effect 3. However, promotional materials and teasers for future Mass Effect games suggest that the “Destroy” ending, where Shepard destroys all synthetic life, may be the intended continuation point for the series.
10. What is the lifespan of a Turian like Garrus?
Turians, like Garrus, have a lifespan comparable to that of humans. Garrus is stated to be 2-4 years younger than Shepard. If Shepard is 29 at the beginning of ME1 (making him/her 32 at the end of ME3), Garrus would be approximately 25-28 during ME1 and 28-31 during the events of ME3.
11. How old is Jack in Mass Effect 2?
Subject Zero, also known as Jack, is 24 years old in Mass Effect 2. She was born in 2161 and is encountered aboard a heavily guarded prison ship.
12. Can Garrus die in Mass Effect 3?
Yes, Garrus can die in Mass Effect 3 depending on player choices and the Galactic Readiness score. He can be killed by Harbinger during the final battle. However, if he survives, he may be seen honoring Shepard with a plaque, depending on the ending chosen.
13. Why is Ashley not a squadmate in Mass Effect 2?
Ashley is not a squadmate in Mass Effect 2 because BioWare wanted her to play a more significant role in Mass Effect 3. By removing her from the second game, they ensured she wouldn’t be killed off and could have a substantial impact on the third game’s story.
14. If Garrus dies in Mass Effect 2, is he replaced in Mass Effect 3?
If Garrus dies during the Mass Effect 2 suicide mission, he is not replaced by a comparable character in Mass Effect 3. Instead, Liara and a new Turian officer, General Corinthus, handle his intended role in the story. This highlights Garrus’ unique importance within the narrative.
15. What’s the connection between Mass Effect and education?
The Mass Effect series offers numerous opportunities for learning and analysis, particularly in areas such as ethics, moral decision-making, strategic thinking, and team management. The complex narratives and character interactions provide rich material for discussions and educational activities. The Games Learning Society explores the educational potential of games like Mass Effect, offering valuable insights and resources. You can find more information at GamesLearningSociety.org.