Mass Effect 2: A Female Commander Shepard’s Guide to Romance
For those stepping into the boots of a Female Commander Shepard in Mass Effect 2, the galaxy isn’t just filled with Reapers and Cerberus conspiracies. It’s also filled with the potential for love, connection, and maybe even a little bit of interspecies awkwardness. So, who exactly is available for our leading lady to woo?
The romance options for a female Shepard in Mass Effect 2 are:
- Garrus Vakarian: The reformed C-Sec officer with a charmingly awkward personality and a love for calibrations.
- Jacob Taylor: A human Cerberus operative, known for his loyalty and sense of duty.
- Thane Krios: A Drell assassin haunted by his past, seeking redemption through faith and connection.
These are your primary choices for a main storyline romance within the game. While other characters may show interest or offer moments of flirtation, these three offer the deepest and most developed romantic arcs. Let’s explore them further.
Deep Dive into Romanceable Characters
Garrus Vakarian: The Calibration King
Garrus is a Turian and an ex-C-Sec officer who became a vigilante on Omega. As a romance option, Garrus offers a unique blend of camaraderie and shy affection. His romance arc is arguably one of the most popular and beloved in the entire Mass Effect trilogy.
- Why Romance Him? Garrus is a steadfast and loyal companion. His romance provides moments of levity and genuine heartfelt connection. Witnessing his awkward attempts at flirting, and genuine affection for Shepard is extremely charming.
- How to Woo Him? Support him during his loyalty mission (Garrus: Eye for an Eye) and actively engage in conversations on the Normandy. Be receptive to his advances and provide reassurance when he doubts himself. Choose the Paragon dialogue options in your conversations with him to win his heart.
- Potential Pitfalls? Garrus initially struggles with the idea of a relationship due to the cultural differences and the dangers of their mission. Be patient and understanding.
Jacob Taylor: The Loyal Soldier
Jacob is a human Cerberus operative, former Alliance Marine, with a strong sense of duty and loyalty. His loyalty mission is Jacob: The Gift of Greatness. He’s portrayed as reliable and grounded.
- Why Romance Him? Jacob provides a sense of stability and security in a chaotic environment. He’s a good man in a tough situation.
- How to Woo Him? Show interest in his past and listen to his concerns. Be supportive during his loyalty mission. Respond positively to his advances during conversations.
- Potential Pitfalls? Jacob can come across as somewhat bland compared to other romance options. Some players find his storyline less engaging. His later actions in Mass Effect 3 have also tarnished his reputation among fans.
Thane Krios: The Tragic Assassin
Thane is a Drell assassin, burdened by his past and grappling with a terminal illness. His romance offers a more somber and poignant experience. Thane is a spiritual character that searches for redemption. His loyalty mission is Thane: Sins of the Father.
- Why Romance Him? Thane’s romance is deeply emotional and offers a unique perspective on life, death, and regret. He’s a character who appreciates the beauty of the present moment.
- How to Woo Him? Be understanding and compassionate. Listen to his stories and offer comfort without being intrusive. Respect his faith and his grief.
- Potential Pitfalls? Thane’s terminal illness means that the romance has a bittersweet ending. Prepare for emotional heartbreak.
Additional Considerations
While these three are the primary options, it’s important to note:
- One-Night Stands: A brief encounter with Kelly Chambers is possible, but this isn’t a full romance arc. This involves inviting her up to your quarters and accepting her offer to feed your fish, which she does in person.
- Flirting: Shepard can flirt with several characters, including Jack and Miranda, but these don’t lead to full romances.
Remember to complete the loyalty missions of your chosen romantic interest to solidify the relationship and ensure their survival in the Suicide Mission at the end of the game. Failing to secure their loyalty can have tragic consequences.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can female Shepard romance Tali in Mass Effect 2?
No, Tali is not a romance option for female Shepard in Mass Effect 2. Tali is exclusively available as a romance option for male Shepard.
2. Can female Shepard romance Jack in Mass Effect 2?
No, Jack is not available for romance for female Shepard in Mass Effect 2, although it was an option considered during development. Jack is only romanceable by male Shepard.
3. Can female Shepard romance Miranda in Mass Effect 2?
No, Miranda is not romanceable by female Shepard. Miranda is exclusively available for male Shepard.
4. Why can’t female Shepard romance Jack?
Originally, Jack was intended to be pansexual and romanceable by both male and female Shepard. However, this was changed due to concerns about potential controversy.
5. Who is the best romance option for female Shepard in Mass Effect 2?
“Best” is subjective, but Garrus is often considered a fan favorite due to his character development, loyalty, and charmingly awkward personality. Thane offers a deeply emotional and poignant experience, while Jacob provides a sense of stability. Ultimately, the choice depends on your personal preferences.
6. Does romancing Kelly Chambers count as a “real” romance?
While you can have a brief encounter with Kelly Chambers, it doesn’t count as a full romance. It’s more of a fleeting connection.
7. What happens if you romance someone else in Mass Effect 2 after starting a romance with someone?
If you romance someone new, the face of your old love interest will be turned face down on your desk in the Captain’s Cabin. This is one way to see who has been dumped. If you break up with your new partner, the picture will turn back up.
8. How important are loyalty missions for romances in Mass Effect 2?
Loyalty missions are crucial for solidifying romances and ensuring the survival of your chosen partner in the Suicide Mission at the end of the game. Failing to complete their loyalty mission can lead to their death.
9. Can you continue a romance from Mass Effect 1 into Mass Effect 2?
Yes, if you romanced Liara T’Soni in Mass Effect 1, a continuation of sorts is present in the Lair of the Shadow Broker DLC for Mass Effect 2.
10. Is there any same-sex romance in the original Mass Effect trilogy?
Yes, the original Mass Effect trilogy features some same-sex romance options. Liara T’Soni is romanceable by both male and female Shepard. In Mass Effect 3, more same-sex options were added. Ashley will still be for Males only, but Kaidan will then be open for both Female and Male Shepards.
11. Do Tali and Garrus get together if you don’t romance either of them?
Yes, if neither Tali nor Garrus are romanced by Shepard, they will eventually begin a romance with each other. This is a popular subplot among fans.
12. What happens if my romance interest dies in the Suicide Mission?
If your romance interest dies in the Suicide Mission, it will have a significant impact on the story in Mass Effect 3. You won’t be able to continue the romance, and it will affect Shepard’s emotional state.
13. Can you romance Samara as female Shepard?
Yes, you can flirt with Samara. Romancing Samara is one of the more interesting relationships in Mass Effect 2, and is available for both Male and Female Shepards. But remember that she refuses to break her oath, so the encounter will be very short.
14. Are there any consequences for not romancing anyone in Mass Effect 2?
There are no negative consequences for not romancing anyone. It’s perfectly valid to play through the game without pursuing any romantic relationships.
15. Where can I learn more about the impact of games on learning and society?
To explore the broader implications of gaming in education and social contexts, visit the Games Learning Society website at GamesLearningSociety.org. Their research provides valuable insights into how games can be used to promote learning and engagement.
Choosing a romance in Mass Effect 2 can greatly enhance the experience of being Commander Shepard. Whether you decide to woo Garrus, seek comfort with Thane, or find stability with Jacob, each relationship offers a unique and memorable journey through the stars. Choose wisely, Commander!