9 Mass Effect Friendships That Will Make You Wish Your Crew Was This Cool

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Summary

  • Joker and EDI’s banter evolves into a solid friendship.
  • Suvi and Kallo run the Tempest flawlessly and share a wholesome bond.
  • Garrus and Tali are a strong, platonic pair, showcasing deep friendship and potential romance.

The Mass Effect series is one of the top science fiction role-playing games, with the original Shepard trilogy being particularly notable. This series centers around a galactic conflict against formidable artificial alien beings known as Reapers. In addition to this, there’s Andromeda – a game that transported players beyond the Milky Way into the distant reaches of the galaxy named after it, offering fresh planets and alien species for exploration.

It’s quite normal for people who find themselves in close proximity, given all the new destinations to discover and acquaintances to make – not forgetting the risks that everyone faces daily – to strike up conversations and even form friendships. In the universe of Mass Effect, there are numerous platonic pairs, but these are the standouts.

9. James Vega and Steve Cortez

Their Bromance is Nothing Short of Hilarious

As a devoted fan, let me share that Mass Effect 3 introduced some outstanding characters, and among them, James Vega and Steve Cortez truly stood out. Often found together in the hangar, these two had a friendship that was easy to appreciate. Typically, I’d stumble upon them engaged in friendly banter, good-naturedly ribbing each other.

In a humorous manner, both reciprocate wittily during their conversations, making each interaction entertainingly amusing. The The Citadel DLC demonstrates how their camaraderie flourishes, as they drop by Shepard’s apartment for a sports viewing session in their swanky new place, continuing to exchange banter that remains consistently engaging.

8. Joker and Edi

Joker Eventually Warms Up to EDI’s Presence

In Mass Effect 2, Joker, the seasoned pilot of the Normandy, initially isn’t thrilled about the new AI assistant, EDI. However, as days pass, he grows fond of her company and appreciates the support she offers for his exceptional flying abilities. They frequently argue like a long-married couple, which can be quite entertaining to observe.

In Mass Effect 3, Joker found EDI even more appealing when she transformed into a robot form with a traditional attractive design. The duo grew fond of each other and could potentially develop a romantic bond, as EDI learned about love and companionship from both Joker and Shepard. However, the game allows players to prevent this romance if they wish. Fortunately, the progression of their relationship doesn’t compromise their strong friendship.

7. Suvi Anwar and Kallo Jath

The Two Work More Than Well Together Aboard the Tempest

Without Suvi Anwar and Kallo Jath steering the course, The Tempest wouldn’t feel the same. They’re the ones ensuring everything runs smoothly, a job that demands solid teamwork. Remarkably, they work together harmoniously, making their collaboration all the more effective.

It might not be an exaggeration to say they are friends, just like how Kallo labels their bond. In many ways, their friendship resembles that of Joker and Edi from Andromeda, being genuine, heartwarming, and filled with humor that can even compete with them. Among the companions in Andromeda, Suvi and Kallo’s dynamic stands out as one of the most robust throughout the series.

6. Garrus Vakarian and Tali’Zorah

These Two Companions Are Fast Friends and Can Potentially Become Something More

Absolutely, it’s not just Shepard who builds relationships or flirts with fellow crew members on the Normandy. There are numerous friendships and even romantic possibilities that can develop if certain characters aren’t pursued romantically by Shepard. Among these, Garrus and Tali’Zorah stand out as close friends of Shepard and potential love interests, depending on the gender of your player character.

By the time “Mass Effect 3” arrives, these two characters have grown incredibly close, often spending leisure time together on the Normandy. In fact, their bond is so strong that it’s not uncommon to find them engaged in activities beyond friendship, approaching a romantic relationship by the end of the third game (unless neither character has been romanced). Despite their romantic connection, they also make fantastic friends.

5. Kaidan Alenko and Ashley Williams

The Two Alliance Soldiers Naturally Gravitate Towards One Another

As a gamer, I can’t help but feel a profound bond with Kaidan and Ashley in the game. Their friendship is intense and fleeting, as one of them seems destined to meet an untimely end unless you use a mod to save them both. If I know what’s coming, I usually delay the Virmire mission because it forces me into a painful choice: I have to decide which companion I want to save. It’s a tough call, but that’s part of the game’s appeal.

During their shared dangerous expedition, players may opt to include these characters and overhear some of their conversations, hinting at a blossoming camaraderie between them. It’s clear that, should they both have made it through alive, they would likely have developed a strong friendship.

4. Commander Shepard and Joker

The Wise-Cracking Pilot Never Loses Faith in Commander Shepard

Among the few constant figures onboard the Normandy ship crew, Joker has been a steadfast member across all games. This loyalty stems primarily from his strong bond with Commander Shepard and his passion for what he excels at – manning the spaceship. Although some were skeptical due to Shepard’s resurrection in Mass Effect 2 and their subsequent alliance with Cerberus, Joker remained unfazed, committed to standing by them through all challenges together.

Numerous fans adored his witty personality and kind heart, which made his character highly appealing, both on and off the field. Even skeptical characters like Shepard couldn’t help but warm up to Joker, and their friendship remained unbroken through thick and thin, including after Joker’s death at the beginning of the second game. In fact, when Shepard selflessly gave up their own life to ensure Joker’s safe escape in the sequel, it served as a poignant testament to the depth of their connection.

3. Commander Shepard and Garrus Vakarian

There’s No Shepard Without Vakarian

One exceptional gaming companion is undoubtedly Garrus Vakarian, who stands out amongst Shepard’s allies for numerous reasons. His character development throughout the game series is unparalleled, his romantic relationships are highly sought-after (due to their depth), and he consistently maintains a strong bond with Shepard throughout the series as a trusted friend.

Initially, there’s a sense of mistrust between them, but as mutual respect grows, it blossoms into a deep friendship that remains constant throughout the trilogy. In both Mass Effect 2 and Mass Effect 3, he reconnects with Shepard, trusting their shared mission to save the galaxy and standing ready by their side. A poignant quote from the end of Mass Effect 3, “There is no Shepard without Vakarian,” encapsulates the strength of their bond, unwavering even in the face of galactic peril.

2. Liara T’Soni and Commander Shepard

Liara Did Everything She Could to Resurrect Shepard

In the game Mass Effect, while there isn’t a set choice for romance, many players find themselves drawn to Liara T’Soni. This is because early interactions with her in the first game can lead towards a romantic relationship. Moreover, among Shepard’s companions, it’s Liara who goes to great lengths, including the seemingly impossible act of reviving Shepard after their demise at the outset of Mass Effect 2.

Despite not being romantically involved with Shepard, Liara demonstrates a profound affection for him, as seen when she goes to extreme lengths, such as contacting Cerberus, to save her friend from death. This is one of the reasons why Liara stands out as a kind and compassionate character in the Mass Effect series, making her an excellent ally for Shepard.

1. David Anderson and Commander Shepard

The Father Figure That Was Needed

Shepard is well-known, yet their fame stems from being the central figure. In essence, they function as the binding agent across the galaxy, especially during the Reaper crisis. It’s impossible to discuss all the robust relationships and friendships that Shepard has cultivated over time without bringing up Captain David Anderson.

He functions as both a guiding influence and a mentor towards Shepard, ready to provide guidance or assistance whenever necessary. He’s not hesitant to take significant risks in order to aid Shepard’s success – actions like breaking into Udina’s office and knocking the Councilor unconscious to free the Normandy from the Citadel demonstrate this. In the climactic battle, he accompanies Shepard and the team, and just before his demise, they share a heartfelt conversation in which he expresses his pride in Shepard and their accomplishments. This poignant scene often leaves many viewers with tears in their eyes as they reflect upon one of Shepard’s dearest friends.

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2025-05-02 06:57