Mass Effect 5’s New N7 Is More Like Shepard Than We Thought

[@jasperzanovich2504]

I would much rather have Shepard return as a sort of mentor, one that doesn't get killed for shock effect.

[@RobsRelay]

This would be a fascinating route to explore. You're right that it's been a trope in stories lately where the "classic" character returns to teach a new generation and is then killed off-a bad trope at that. If Shepard is brought back, they've earned the right to live out their days. Thanks for watching and sharing your thoughts!

[@Harry.117]

Nah, We want our lord and saviour Shepard back

[@peteramaranth85]

clone or maybe shepards kid charicter creator could be based on who ever we romanced so maybe we could chose what species this Shepard is

[@RobsRelay]

Interesting idea. Thanks for watching and sharing your thoughts!

[@aaronhawkins7352]

That’s a great idea especially when we can create how they look and pick and to add more hairstyles like locs n others

[@JayV98]

Hell no!

[@user-wr7mb3ic7m]

@peteramaranth85 But not all couples can have children. For example, Garrus and FemShepard

[@BlackTemplers]

@@user-wr7mb3ic7m adoption is an option in that case, after all there would be alot of orphans from the reaper war

[@axelnilsson5124]

Perhaps the N7 agent will be a squadmate? Maybe even on a mission knowing they’ll need Shepard for it?

[@RobsRelay]

This is an exciting idea. What kind of mission could call for Shepard to return? It would certainly have to be something big. I'm curious to see how things play out. Thanks for watching and sharing your thoughts!

[@LongShen1883]

Looks like Edi got the upgrades and with EDI's capabilities she can pretty much upgrade herself or if the sheps got their personalities upgraded/downloaded with the help of SAM

[@Bethany_mo]

If Shepard lives I think making her an admiral or the human counselor would be the best outcome. If anyone in the galaxy deserves to retire from military life it’s Shepard. How many times do you need to save the galaxy to get at least a promotion

[@RobsRelay]

Exactly! She deserves a break from the fighting. Although, entering the ring of galactic politics doesn't sound like much of a vacation to me... Thank you so much for watching and sharing your thoughts!

[@nickmhc]

I feel like the legend of Shepard will be imported but he won’t be in it… I suspect it’ll be reuniting a fractured galaxy post-Reapers

[@RobsRelay]

This makes a lot of sense! It would be a very intriguing setting for the game, with so many political situations to manage and chaos to sort out. Thanks for watching and sharing your thoughts!

[@valor1omega]

Yeah we need one more story where Shepard finally gets his happy ending he so rightly deserves. If they do that I hope they use the saves to determine whom he does end up with if anyone at all.

[@RobsRelay]

I agree. Some form of save reading has to happen in this case, especially with the release of the Legendary Edition. It's so convenient that it'd be silly if this wasn't pursued. Thanks for watching and sharing your thoughts!

[@randalftheblack2572]

Would prefer Shepard to either not be present in the next game or appear as an older human who is a mentor/advisor or an Alliance Admiral/General or something. I wouldn't mind the new game being set hundreds of years in the future either, and meet a matron or matriarch Liara and hear her stories about Shepard. That distance in time would also let the civilizations in the galaxy plausibly reverse-engineer some reaper tech and rebuild the mass relay network and it could introduce new alien species that joined the galactic community after the reapers were defeated.

[@RobsRelay]

These are great ideas! This path would lead to some really intriguing narrative ideas to explore, in my opinion, and it would probably be best for the series' long-term health. Thanks so much for watching and sharing your thoughts!

[@dancingdroid]

We don't want Shepard to be back as the PC. We just want a satisfying ending for him/her. I want to move on with a new character while not ignoring the past. *cough* Andromeda *cough* Personally I'd love for a sci-fi spy thriller Mass Effect game and honestly the new N7 design fits perfectly for that.

[@RobsRelay]

This makes a lot of sense, and I hope this ends up being how things are handled in Mass Effect 5. Thanks for watching and sharing your thoughts!

[@angeloalvarez5520]

Let Shep enjoy retirement. Returning Shep would be fan service nostalgia bait

[@dancingdroid]

@@angeloalvarez5520 that's what I said.

[@Hunt-ug7vk]

It's Liara for sure , sneaking around for the next adventure

[@RobsRelay]

I'm not too sure. N7 is a designation reserved for members of the Alliance Military, i.e., humans. It isn't very likely for an asari to be an N7, but anything is possible for the next game. Thanks for watching and sharing your thoughts!

[@whatashame9300]

IKR. I saw this trailer before, but right now it just hit me. She looks like Liara.

[@BlackDragon95912]

@@RobsRelay maybe ,but DR. Liara T'soni aka. Shadow broker helps understand crucible plans and build it , and earlier save the galaxy when stops Saren in Mass Effect 1 - she made more than enough to be an exception and be N7 , especially if developers made Liara ,,loved one" of Shepard as canon for next game , so they would have chance to use Shepard name as Access to N7 , like use Shepard as access to be exception and vote herself to be N7 , as Shepard was first human specter , she can be first asari to be N7 , like exception because SHE PROVED TWICE SHE ARE MORE THAN ENOUGH TO BE N7 , because she first stop Saren , then read crucible plans and help building it in mass effect 3 and help save galaxy two times in a row , or 3 times if we count rescuing Shepard body from collectors for Lazarus project.

[@johntheo5789]

​@@RobsRelayMaybe she wears it as a memento,Maybe its the same N7 plague she found on Caldera I mean who is gonna stop her wearing at this point 😅

[@Dankus_Memeus_II]

This universe only works with shepherd. I don’t think making us play as someone else is wise

[@RobsRelay]

I don't see it this way. Don't get me wrong, though-I would love to see Shepard in Mass Effect 5, but I don't think the series needs them as the player character for every game moving forward. My worry is that too much Shepard will cause fatigue and eventually tarnish the high esteem we hold the character. Thanks for watching and sharing your thoughts!

[@angeloalvarez5520]

The entire lore and galaxy revolves around shepherd? I think your worshipping Shep too much

[@angeloalvarez5520]

​@@edselsledge2940You're comparing a different protagonist to an entirely different galaxy

[@RobsRelay]

@@edselsledge2940 The situation is much more nuanced than you're making it out to be. Mass Effect Andromeda had numerous issues, and Ryder's role as the protagonist was not the game's biggest problem. It's too easy to attribute the game's negative reception to this choice. Assuming the next game's success hinges solely on Shepard's return is a misstep. The game's quality is a result of a myriad of factors, and it's our responsibility to consider them all, rather than issuing ultimatums or creating dogmatic analyses. Shepard is unique-no one can deny that. They served as the vehicle to show us a rich sci-fi setting in the trilogy. Another character-someone completely new-can do the same, so long as the setting is as fascinating to explore as it was in the trilogy. At the end of the day, the quality of the world and the writing of the character within it is what will make the next Mass Effect remarkable.

[@user-wr7mb3ic7m]

@Dankus_Memeus_II Agreed. Shepard = Mass Effect

[@Ser-Lusacan]

Honestly I love the idea of being a new character Shepard's story is finished just give them a good ending and let them be an advisor or a character that pops up once or twice on Shepard focused missions

[@RobsRelay]

I think this idea makes the most sense for the series in the long term, and I get the feeling Bioware feels the same. Thanks for watching and sharing your thoughts!

[@maximillianhallett3055]

It seems like they’re going for a detective story. Noir heroes can fight, but that’s not their main strength. They also are often depicted wearing long coats and carry a small side arm. The character is lithe, so they’re not a lumbering muscle man, so it’s either not shep at all, or that’s femshep.

[@RobsRelay]

I think you're right that the next game will be a detective story. A common thread connecting all the teasers we've seen so far is that the fans must piece together what's happening-we're becoming detectives, solving the mystery of Mass Effect 5. I quite enjoy it, and I think a noir/detective story suits the series very well. Thanks for watching and sharing your thoughts!

[@JayV98]

Shepard's story is done and Mass Effect fans need to make their peace with that and stop living in the past. The series is more than Shepard or any one character. It's a story about humanity's role in the milky way.

[@RobsRelay]

You make excellent points, and I agree that moving past Shepard is how the franchise will grow into what it has the potential to be. Thanks for watching and sharing your thoughts!

[@charlie-gt8ri]

whether you like it or not they won’t continue the story in the milky way without shep

[@RobsRelay]

@@charlie-gt8ri Initially, I think having Shepard return could be smart, especially to tie up loose ends. Personally, I'd love to see the character at least once more. Beyond that, the Mass Effect franchise can thrive with Milky Way stories that don't involve Shepard, and this, to me, is the best way to ensure the series can prosper in the long run. Thanks for watching and joining the discussion!

[@Abb0able]

@@RobsRelay No Shepard and a whole new plot and characters to write for ME:A, yet i stopped playing it halfway. How long ago was the last good new Bioware title? People should stop expecting good titles from companies that did something good more then a decade ago. Allot of people that made the tribology have left in 10 years. These days allot of writers don't explore why and how the source material brought the success of the initial IP anymore. Look at Star Wars, I expect nothing so i won't get disappointed.

[@RobsRelay]

@@Abb0able I agree that keeping low expectations is a good move. Bioware has lost a lot of goodwill over the past few years, and it will undoubtedly be a struggle to regain that. The good news is that the current Mass Effect team is comprised of many veterans who worked on the trilogy. The devs are earnestly attempting to ease the concerns about the next game, and it appears that all involved with the project have a genuine and deep love for Mass Effect. I have good feelings about the next game, but my optimism is mixed with caution, like you.

[@LongShen1883]

Sheperd gets downloaded into an Edi-like body? Or his body is replaced by a cybernetic body, leaner, meaner, faster with the SAM Upgrades and jump jets, that has been my theory after seeing this.

[@RobsRelay]

It's an interesting thought, and it definitely opens up some complicated philosophical questions to explore. We'll see... Thanks for watching and sharing your thoughts!

[@dragonheart2001]

No jump jets please. Made sense for Andromeda since they are explorers but would retcon the older games

[@mossaic13]

Shepherd = Dracula = Way Maker = Path Finder 🧛🏼‍♂️

[@RobsRelay]

🤔

[@AvoozlPlays]

I really hope they don't involve cloning again and make Shepard be cloned.

[@AvoozlPlays]

Maybe the helmet is used for a similar reason as the beginning of Mass Effect 2 since you didn't choose your character design yet.

[@Christian85595]

So, what i am thinking in ME5 will happen. We all know the citadel is one bigass relay, that has huge ranges (enough to bring reapers from darkspace), i`m thinking they link the two galaxies (andromeda and milky way) through it, there also are a bunch more huge range relays as well (ALPHA relay i think it was called.

[@RobsRelay]

Interesting idea! You're right that there are still many unsolved mysteries regarding particular relays, which can be used as a clever way to create new story material for the next game. Thanks for watching and sharing your ideas!

[@medusawitchful]

Too bad my Shepard now hang out with Reaper now for 50k years😂

[@RobsRelay]

😂

[@goroch_thegreen]

I can't accept anyone but Shepard as main character. Story just doesn't work with him/her

[@RobsRelay]

This is a regrettable stance to take. How can you be so sure when we don't even know the story of the next game?

[@thecreed1212]

​@@RobsRelayI agree with him, at least for the next game. Having shepard as this game's protagonist as a great way to get true closure to Shepard and his squad's story and to pass the torch to the next protagonist

[@MS-fh4sz]

At minimum we need one more game with Sheperd. To give him or her a proper ending, PERIOD!!! We all know the ME3 ending was B.S. At worst case Sheperd was indoctrinated in the end. Best case Sheperd got lit up and imagined the whole Citadel scene. And he or she barely survived. All the endings were opened ended. Because Bioware must have hired Stephen King to write the original endings inlcuding the add on endings. You know because he can tell a great story but alot of his book's endings suck!!! Just like the ME3 ending

[@RobsRelay]

I agree that just a bit more explanation and time with the character are needed to satisfactorily tie up ME3's ending. Here's hoping the next game can provide a more definitive sense of closure. Thanks for watching and sharing your thoughts!

[@Abb0able]

IT ending was really weird.

[@Purcx547]

Just bring back Shepard

[@RobsRelay]

I completely understand the desire to see Shepard return. We'll see what Bioware does... Thanks for watching and sharing your thoughts!

[@AvoozlPlays]

Honestly I think I would be happy to play a new character but still have Shepard be a part of the story, would be nice to actually choose more about your character including species, similar to what Jedi Academy did.

[@Tm-ht8uk]

If it’s not Shepard I won’t play like I haven’t played Andromeda

[@RobsRelay]

How do you know if you'll like a Mass Effect game without Shepard if you have yet to play one?🤔 Andromeda has its issues, but it's settled into a good experience overall. I think you should check it out if you have the time. Plus, the next game is heavily hinting at exploring the plotlines introduced in Andromeda, so might as well give it a go to have the complete understanding of where the story could go. Thanks for watching and sharing your thoughts!

[@Torsteinhauger]

​@@RobsRelay I agree. ME Andromeda gets way too much of hate for being not like the trilogy. We need to approach it with a open mind.

[@RobsRelay]

@@Torsteinhauger Exactly! Funny enough, if there is anything that Mass Effect's themes aspire to teach us, it's to have an open mind. Thanks for sharing your thoughts!

[@JourneyTal1]

It’s Kai Leng and we play as him In all seriousness though I think it’d be interesting if this was a story of Shepard but it was Shepard post alliance in a sort of retirement broken by whatever ends up happening. It’d explain why military grade gear isn’t available/being worn plus Shepard would have the contacts (Liara, Tali and EDI) to acquire new advanced equipment to handle whatever is going on. There could also be a restructuring of the actual military command like N7’s being integrated into Spectre duties/resources in the wake of Reaper losses and whatnot so they get the super slick fancy new equipment that allows for casual look while infiltrating and so on. Idk just spitballing there but you get the point there are routes they could go to explain the aesthetic change while still going down that path. Hell a two thousand years ago military’s wore togas, leather and maybe some bronze if you could manage it. Things change with tech advancement

[@RobsRelay]

(Re: Kai Leng) HA! Good points! You're right that exploring a post-Reaper War galaxy is an intriguing concept, and seeing how Shepard and others are handling the aftermath (more than what a brief cutscene can explain anyway) could be the base for a compelling story. Thanks for watching and sharing your thoughts!

[@JourneyTal1]

@@RobsRelay Great video 😄 Side thought, it’d also make sense for most people’s playthroughs unless you go renegade fully cause there’s a lot of dialogues in romances and even in the very final cutscene with Anderson where Shepard can talk about wanting to settle down and retire more or less. I even remember a line between Shepard and Garrus during the final mission where you say something to the effect of “This is going to be our last ride one way or another. Either I die here or I live and retire somewhere nice. I think I’ve had my fair share of saving the universe.” or something to that effect

[@RobsRelay]

@@JourneyTal1 I'm glad you enjoyed it! You're absolutely right. That's a great catch! It's often overlooked how often Shepard talks about being tired and ready to settle down throughout Mass Effect 3. It would be strange if Shepard returns in the next game and is as pumped to save the galaxy again as in the trilogy-there rightfully should be some pushback. Thanks again for sharing your ideas!

[@lovestospuge666]

If shepherd isn't coming back then I'm not either

[@RobsRelay]

Could you explain why you feel this way? I'm curious.

[@lovestospuge666]

@@RobsRelay Sure It's because mass effect (unlike dragon age) from 2007 to 2012 had the same continuous storyline with mostly the same characters but most of all the same protagonist for 3 games straight And ends with What most fans consider to be One of the worst endings in Syfy Made worse by the fact that Casey Hudson specifically said the series would not have an AB or C ending. They then chose to run away from the ending with Andromeda which was mid at best.The original trilogy is a decade-old right now and will more than likely be 20 years old by the time the next game comes out And I simply want 2 things First is proper closure for shepherd And second Is the one more story About the shepherd that the stargazer talked about And because it's taken 20 years I will settle for nothing less

[@RobsRelay]

@@lovestospuge666 I see. That's a reasonable stance to take. When Mass Effect 1 first came out, Bioware made it very clear that it was the first in a trilogy, so they kept their word. It's just unfortunate that they didn't stick the landing. Personally, I agree that one more story with Shepard to give a more satisfying conclusion would help restore the fanbase's good graces, and I'd love to be Shepard at least one last time on a new adventure. Let's say we get the game you're asking for-we get one more story with Shepard, which offers proper closure and respects the trilogy. What do you imagine happens next for Mass Effect?

[@lovestospuge666]

@@RobsRelay To be honest Im done after the next one

[@RobsRelay]

@@lovestospuge666 That's fair. I, on the other hand, would love to see the series continue with a new character (or multiple new player characters) focusing on smaller-scale stories like fighting pirates, overambitious mercenary groups, or new races with hostile intentions (like the Yahg). I'd also be interested in playing stories from different genres set within the Mass Effect universe. Could you imagine a Resident Evil/Dead Space-like survival horror game in Mass Effect's setting? That would be awesome. Mass Effect is brimming with untapped story potential beyond Shepard and the Reaper War, and after one more great story to neatly close up that arc, the series' future will be pretty exciting.

[@gildedbear5355]

I REALLY hope that it isn't Shepard. The galaxy is SO much bigger than one N7 Human, no matter how remarkable they may be. Good settings can, and will, survive a change in protagonist.

[@RobsRelay]

Yes, exactly! I agree 100%. Mass Effect has one of the best sci-fi settings of all time, and there is so much to explore that doesn't require Shepard. Thanks for watching and commenting!

[@RobsRelay]

@@edselsledge2940 The pivotal difference between God of War and Mass Effect, between Kratos and Shepard, is the profound influence of player choice. This element is not just a feature but a fundamental aspect that shapes the entire experience. When we play as Kratos, we don't make decisions about what he does or says. We can only follow the singular narrative path the developers laid out for the character. When we play as Shepard, we can make many different choices and paths to get the character from the beginning to the end of the journey. We can even make it so the character doesn't survive ME2. In other words, nearly every Mass Effect player has a different idea of who Shepard is based on their decisions. So the story and games aren't really about Shepard at that point-they are more about how we decide to interact with the world and characters. I'm not saying Shepard should never be the player character in future games. On the contrary, I'd love to play as the character, at least one more time. I am saying that just like God of War will inevitably succeed with Atreus as the player character, Mass Effect can thrive when new protagonists are introduced.

[@angeloalvarez5520]

Agreed. People are too attached

[@angeloalvarez5520]

​@@edselsledge2940shepherd wouldn't even have the same writer. It would be nostalgia bait

[@angeloalvarez5520]

@@edselsledge2940 I really think Shepherd deserves retirement, and it doesn't seem like you're invested in all the other aspects of the game. Like all the world building and politics between species

[@lukehanson1306]

I would be cool with Shepard coming back as the character you play but they need to expand it in the sense that you make your own character and choice in race with that alien race having its own backstory depending on what you choose. Like the original Dragon Age or like how Mass Effect 1 allowed you to choose your background story with the choice of picking a different alien Race too.

[@RobsRelay]

Playing as other races could be a fascinating route to go down! Although, I'm afraid developing a game with those features could take quite a long time, especially if we want it to have the kind of character depth it deserves. Could you imagine waiting another ten years for the next Mass Effect? That thought bums me out, personally... Thanks for watching and sharing your thoughts!

[@lukaszeckenbauer1695]

Nah dude I want him to be alive I just wanna keep my promise to Miranda and come see her again my guy had so much war in life let the man have a happy ending!!!

[@RobsRelay]

I sympathize! I'd love to see my Shepard back with their love interest, at least once. And a happy ending wouldn't hurt either. We'll see! Thanks for watching and sharing your thoughts!

[@AvoozlPlays]

It's not like a life support suit or something.

[@magickmynd1296]

There are only a few ways I can think of that would make this new protagonist be shepherd. First and least likely is that the synthesis ending becomes canon and somehow being mixed with synthetic life extends the natural life span of all organic species. But that's very unlikely because even when mixed with machinery I doubt human organic components could last more than 150-200 years at max unless there has been some kind of massive advancement in medical science that slows down the aging process, so even in that case a synthetic shepherd would be too old to be able to continue to do field work. Second would be if this is a descendent of shepherd, like a grandchild. Also kind of unlikely because even though shepherd had romantic interests in the game making one of them a canon partner would kind of destroy player choice in the previous 3 games and the only way it would be a human descendent would be if shepherd got with one of the human romantic interests like ashley or miranda and they survived and happened to find out they were pregnant after the events of the 3rd game. Third would be if it's a shepherd clone. When cerberus got ahold of shepherd the first time and tried to resurrect them it's also possible they may have experimented with cloning them in case the project didn't work as planned, which I wouldn't put past them, and it's possible this clone was just in stasis for a long time and finally released at some point prior to the new story time period starting. But I doubt they would have all of shepherds memories and attachments unless they had a memory implanting process like in that movie the 6th day. Other than that I can't really think of many other ways that they could bring the original shepherd into the new game with the timeline being so far ahead of the 3rd game.

[@RobsRelay]

These points make a lot of sense. The fact that we have to go to great lengths to explain why or how this character could be Shepard is the best evidence for why it isn't. In other words, it's much easier to explain that this N7 is an entirely new character. Despite the high likelihood that this is a new character, it doesn't necessarily mean that Shepard can't show up in the next game-it's possible to have a new character and Shepard. How this could play out is anyone's guess, but it's possible. Also, it's important to note that there have yet to be any confirmations of a timeline for the next Mass Effect. Sure, there have been many rumors and hearsay, but no official confirmations. So, we can't assume with any degree of certainty when the game will take place and all the implications of such a detail. Thanks for sharing your well-constructed thoughts about the next game! I appreciate reading other perspectives and theories, and it makes me happy to know others enjoy speculating on these mysteries as much as I do.

[@NovaG0]

I can’t say I’m convinced. Pretty sure BioWare have said shepards story is finished

[@RobsRelay]

This is true-on several occasions, Bioware devs have stated that Shepard's story is done. Even franchise director Michael Gamble is on the record as having said something to this effect. However, the hints and teases that the next game will have at least a little something to do with Shepard-the N7 2023 Bioware Blog post, for example. Your skepticism is valid, though. I'm not sure we'll get another game with Shepard as a protagonist, either. In any case, it's much too early to say one way or the other with any degree of certainty. Thanks for watching and sharing your thoughts!

[@NovaG0]

@@RobsRelay you’re welcome! Good video

[@RobsRelay]

@@NovaG0 I'm glad you enjoyed it!

[@xyreniaofcthrayn1195]

It would be funny if the next protag was called ghost _______ Ghost.

[@0nline935]

Im commander ghost & this is my favorite comment on the citadel

[@RobsRelay]

Funny!

[@AvoozlPlays]

It would have to continue from the improved destroy ending.

[@captainfluffy7232]

May I offer a small rebuttal I think is an interesting perspective. If I’m remembering right Humans we’re being submitted for specter training soon after Shepherd had achieved the rank once he set a president. The specter’s are the black hand of the Council. It’s not outside the realm of possibility that the cream of the crop are from spec ops and renowned military units like the N7. That said after the reaper war Shepherd would be considered dead. Ceremony and funerals would be held all across the Galaxy for those that couldn’t make it. Anderson, Shepherd, Mordin and the like. So aside from reclaiming a life in the human military where else would someone like Shepherd go after they are discovered alive by a reclamation team? Well if I were a politician I’d dip his file in black ink and then pretend like he’s an entirely new person. No need for ceremony or induction since he already was a specter. Military service to Military Intelligence. Who better than the man who led multiple small squad insertions against the will of gods.

[@RobsRelay]

If I understand you correctly, you're theorizing that if Shepard survived ME3, the governments and military would keep their existence a secret so they could assist in covert military operations. Is this what you're saying?

[@user-wc6ls8yk7f]

It’s Liara all along🎶

[@RobsRelay]

🎶

[@littleoshowobiesgameroom7407]

In my personal opinion, i want shepherd back. I wouldn't mind if they changed it to a new character. I'll still play if it's good.

[@RobsRelay]

I, too, would like to see Shepard one more time, if only for a few scenes that more satisfyingly tie up their story. I would also be thrilled to play as a new character, especially if the game is great. The developers at Bioware have a lot of work ahead of them, and I'm excited to see where they take us. Thanks for watching and sharing your thoughts!

[@DemiFairy]

I definitely want the next game to finally giev us a satisfying ending for Shepard but i would love for them yo have a role similar to Hawks in DA:I

[@RobsRelay]

I agree, and I think this approach will probably have the best overall result and fan response. We'll see... Thanks for watching and sharing your thoughts!

[@themajindevil5120]

I am getting a detective or assassin vibe from this new look

[@RobsRelay]

Me too. This N7 has to be some kind of covert operative, carrying out more secretive assignments than combat-heavy military operations. The tone of all the teasers thus far has evoked a sense of mystery, too, so I'm leaning more toward the detective side of your observation. A detective/mystery thriller is an excellent idea to explore in the world of Mass Effect, and I'm excited to see where Bioware takes us. Thanks for watching and sharing your observations!

[@themajindevil5120]

@@RobsRelay I am down for it and hopefully we get to play as other races

[@DirtPerson]

It's Conrad Verner.

[@RobsRelay]

You might be onto something... 🤔

[@arsonistonfire7785]

man, I really wish this is Shepard, He gotta come back and get his happy ending with Kaiden. I really hope it is, even though I think it definitely isn't ;-;

[@RobsRelay]

It would be great to see Shepard return, even briefly, to see a well-earned happy conclusion for the character. It would put a lot of long-held fan anguish to rest. You're probably right that this N7 is an entirely new character, though. Only time will tell... Thanks for watching and sharing your thoughts!

[@registrum]

A Mad Max movie without Mad Max. We saw how successful that was. Lesson learned. Imagine a Batman video game without the iconic Batman. I was ripped off with money grab, Andromeda. I won't hold my breath for this one and I'll wait to see the reviews -after- the game releases. Hopefully they have enough OG devs and coders left to crank out a good Mass Effect game again.

[@RobsRelay]

I'm hoping you can clarify what point you're trying to make because I'm a bit confused. Furiosa currently has a 90% critic score and an 89% audience score on Rotten Tomatoes, and its box office earnings are higher than its budget (it made a profit), so it was actually a huge success. Are you trying to say that a Mass Effect game without Shepard could be very successful? That's what your example indicates... And what about the Halo TV show that features Master Chief? That wasn't a recipe for success... You're wise to wait to purchase the game until you've seen reviews or gameplay that assures its quality. This is an excellent practice for all game purchases. Thanks for watching and sharing your thoughts!

[@lordmarwolaeth4570]

Hmm pretty sure the game will be titled Mass Effect 4, Andromeda was pretty much like a spin-off after all so yeah I think it might be a return of Shepard or maybe a protege?

[@RobsRelay]

Interesting! A protege situation could be fascinating to explore. I'm not sure about the title. All the teases for the next Mass Effect indicate that the Andromeda storyline will continue in some fashion, which confirms that Bioware doesn't consider Andromeda a spin-off. In fact, it was never intended to be. I think it's safe to assume that the next game will be a sequel to both the trilogy and Andromeda, so it may make more sense to choose a title along the lines of "Mass Effect" plus some word that describes the story it will tell. Thanks for watching and sharing your thoughts!

[@valor1omega]

ME 4* looks interesting, and as others said ME only works with Shepard. *I say ME4 because this is a direct continuation of the first three Shepard based games. Andromeda is it's own thing and not the same as Shepard's ME games.

[@RobsRelay]

I beg to differ! Plenty of other Mass Effect stories work very well without Shepard as the protagonist. The setting and themes are the series' defining features-this keeps fans returning to the games, not one character in particular. Moreover, we don't know that the next game will continue the story told in the trilogy. N7 Day 2023 had more than a few details pointing to the Mass Effect Andromeda, so it's just as valid to believe the game will continue that story somehow. Ultimately, it's far too early to say what the game will be with any degree of certainty, so it's best to avoid setting any rigid expectations. Thanks for watching and sharing your thoughts!

[@Emanon...]

It's EA. They never miss an opportunity to turn great art into an expensive turd.

[@RobsRelay]

🤷

[@hunn20004]

Mass Effect should continue on with number 4, if its a continuation of the "Red" (True) ending of ME3. I'm also open to an another "side story" like Andromeda.

[@RobsRelay]

The title of the next game is a fascinating topic. I get the feeling that it will likely be something similar to Andromeda-"Mass Effect" plus some other word that describes the story it will tell. Being a numbered entry is challenging because it creates such a heavy expectation for the game to live up to the trilogy, which I sincerely hope it does. To be clear, Andromeda wasn't intended to be a side story. It is a full-fledged Mass Effect game that sought to move the franchise forward while maintaining the integrity of the players' choices from the trilogy. Unfortunately, things didn't pan out as the developers anticipated... I also want to point out that ME3 has no "True" ending. Personally, I enjoy Perfect Destroy the most, but I would never deny someone who believes Control is the best ending for their Shepard. Of course, the themes and implications of each ending are fun to respectfully discuss, and that's the best part of having multiple endings. Thanks for watching and sharing your thoughts!

[@hunn20004]

@@RobsRelay Andromeda was quite a....Show. It was hampered with being forced to play on a completely new engine, WHICH did lead to future progress for EA...But the Studio paid dearly for it. "True" ending Only the "Destroy" ending has Shepard breathing under rubble, every other ending is an utopian "UNITY" ending that would have the reapers laughing to the bank. They're too perfect, as if...SHEPARD WAS INDOCTRINATED!!!... which is why i like the Red coloured ending more because it is the most interesting with some ongoing conflict.

[@RobsRelay]

@@hunn20004 I concur. Perfect Destroy leaves the series intriguingly positioned to continue. We'll see how Bioware handles this can of worms...

[@insanegorilla4874]

the person in mass effect 5's teaser trailer looks a lot slimmer and sleeker almost a little bit like a female body, there can be structures for other beings such as males that can also be quite slim as well but it Extinction looks feminine to me. (sorry for my bad spelling mistakes)

[@RobsRelay]

This is true! It's worth noting that there are both female and male versions of Shepard, so if this character is indeed Shepard, we could simply be seeing the Femshep version of the trailer. On the other hand, if this is a brand new character that ends up being the protagonist, we can reasonably deduce that this is the female-presenting version of this N7 in this teaser. There will more than likely be a male version for players to choose from since Bioware games almost always allow the player to customize their character.

[@insanegorilla4874]

@@RobsRelay i do agree with what you are saying Bioware is known for customisable character in there games mostly but and I can be wrong I think this maybe how ever this could be maybe related to commander Shepard aka like a son or daughter depending on which relationship you ended up having with one of your female or male crewmates or hell it could be Shepard's secret sister that we all did not know about, .... know that i think about it it would be cool if that was true but that's my wishful thinking.

[@RobsRelay]

@@insanegorilla4874 Interesting idea-we'll see where Bioware takes us... Thanks for watching and sharing your thoughts!

[@domacleod]

I don't think it's Shepard (at least not our Shepard, time travel / multiverse bullshit may potentially make /a/ Shepard be in there). If it's some other Shepard (multiverse shit), then it makes sense they'd hide their identity as soon as they learn that Shepard is dead (in one of the several ways to die) I think this N7 is not a soldier, but an operative - like what the Spectres were meant to be, an agent from the shadows, not heavily armed or armored unless the situation calls for it - just an outfit that's practical and allows for concealed carry and maybe a shield generator. "Special tactics and recon" - infiltration, sabotage, intelligence gathering, manipulating events from the shadows. I also figure their helmet is convertible like the nano-tech Ironman suit's - it can entirely deconstruct into a collar or something, and reconstruct into a helmet when needed. What makes me think that is the tight fit of the helmet and the rest of the outfit's looks - it's not armor, so a combat helmet is not necessary either. Instead it's there to mask the wearer's identity. The ability to take it on and off with extreme ease makes it perfect for that, since they can confirm their identity and hide it again in a jiffy.

[@RobsRelay]

You make some great points here, and I agree. That's an interesting idea with nanotechnology! The Remnant uses similar nanotechnology, so I wonder if there could be a connection. Thanks so much for sharing your thoughts!

[@xSamDG]

I love Shepard as much as next Mass Effect fan, but OG trilogy was Shepard's story, there is no need to mess with it and potentially antagonize a lot of people. I hope than not only we get new MC, but can chose from different races (at least humanoid one's). It was one of my biggest letdowns in Andromeda, we literally go to another galaxy in ships full of people of different races, yet are forced to play good old boring human.

[@thecreed1212]

We'll never be able to choose different species in a single player mass effect. A multiplayer one of course but it's just too many variables to account for when you're trying to tell a specific story

[@RobsRelay]

@@thecreed1212 Very wise take! There is already so much player choice and consequence baked into Mass Effect-adding even one more playable race could quadruple the number of variables the developers and writers must deal with. At the core of Mass Effect's themes is humanity's place in the galaxy-how humans can keep up with the other races. The Illusive Man and Cerberus' take on this issue is to dominate the other races. Shepard's take on the issue is to cooperate and become an asset that harmonizes with them. Alec Ryder's solution is to implement AI to enhance human abilities. Playing as a human is a crucial part of exploring this theme, and I'm hesitant to say that Bioware is willing to let go of that. Thank you both for watching and sharing your thoughts!

[@angeloalvarez5520]

Let Shepherd enjoy his/her retirement

[@RobsRelay]

They certainly deserve it!

[@Shepard_N7]

Master Chief didn't get one. 😂

[@RobsRelay]

@@Shepard_N7 Haha! 🤣 Isn't that sad, though? Chief definitely earned a retirement, but he was brought back, and the quality of the narrative for those games dipped (Halo 4 and on). I'm concerned the same could happen with Shepard. But who knows? Maybe Shepard won't get their retirement and will be the player character in the next game, and it'll get a 100 Metacritic score! We'll see...

[@Shepard_N7]

True, poor Chief does deserve a retirement. The halo series did get a little rough after 4. I think Infinite was pretty good imo. I'd personally like to see Shepard's arc wrapped up a little bit better. There's so many open-ended elements at the end of ME3. Like the whole indoctrination theory. I think we should get one more ride with Shep! @RobsRelay

[@RobsRelay]

@@Shepard_N7 I agree entirely! I would love at least a bit more time with my Shepard and the crew to feel a definitive sense of closure. Thanks for watching and sharing your thoughts!

[@carmenlynn5441]

I honestly think they could do anything. Reverse engineered reaper tech cultivated from millions of years of harvesting could lead to technologically reanimated AI shepard, alternate universes, shepard halleucinated 3s endings, shepards asari offspring, a gethed up shepars doppleganger, anything really

[@RobsRelay]

You're right! There are so many different possibilities for moving the series forward. Some paths I'd rather not see come to fruition, but it's interesting to consider those possibilities. We find ourselves in an exciting time where we can freely speculate about the next game, and I've been enjoying all the scenarios we fans have conjured up to explain the mysteries Bioware keeps leaving for us. Thanks for watching and sharing your thoughts!

[@carmenlynn5441]

@@RobsRelay i did share my thoughts

[@RobsRelay]

@@carmenlynn5441 I know-I thanked you for doing so. 🙂

[@carmenlynn5441]

@@RobsRelay oops read it as share

[@fate3071]

Why is everyone calling it mass effect 5? If its a direct sequel of the original trilogy it will be ME4. If its a continuation of andromeda it would be Andromeda 2. If its neither, it will be its own thing.

[@RobsRelay]

It's not really as big of a deal as you may think. The next game will be the fifth Mass Effect game in the series, so it makes sense to simply refer to it as ME5 for now. It is not a hard confirmation that it will be the official title. We don't have very many concrete details about the next game's plot, so we can't say with any degree of certainty if it will continue the trilogy or Andromeda. However, many clues point to it continuing both games' stories. If I had to guess, you're right that it will likely be its own title, "Mass Effect: (fill in the blank)." If it were titled ME4 or Andromeda 2, there would be so much baggage attached, so I think that would be avoided altogether.

[@elbowmedic]

Ok here’s my theory, it’s clearly woman and clearly in an Asari helmet. Anyone who’s played knows it’s an achievement in game for all 3 episodes. And at the end of 3 she does her little mating game. She is a Shepard and a T’soni. Whom else would be able to continue to take up the mantle there are most likely 3 1. From the consort 2. Benezia’s follower when she did the whole cypher thing, and Liara’s with the first 2 being a tribute to Shepard after learning of his death the consort would have wanted another in the galaxy who held shepards ethics. And the other asari would do it as a life for life situation. Her life was spared and he died so she incorporated his imprint on a child to balance the life debt.

[@RobsRelay]

Wow-there's a lot to unpack here... Thanks for watching and sharing your thoughts!

[@salsaniggas8544]

Yikes

[@dwightkirkwood9090]

As much I want to be hype for this I won’t as long as EA is evolve.

[@RobsRelay]

I understand where you're coming from, and being cautious is wise. For better or worse, EA will always be involved in Mass Effect, so as fans, we have to come to terms with this in whatever way we think best. I stand with cautious optimism, and I'm interested to see what happens. Thanks for watching and sharing your thoughts!

[@KazumaKenchi]

There is no ending where Shepard is fit to fight anyway. In Control, Refusal, and Synthesis, Shepard straight up dies even in the best-case scenario. For Destroy, they survive just barely, likely with all of their cybernetics ruined, and are dying in the wreckage of the Crucible and Citadel. If they do survive past this scene (Which, imo, they should, otherwise the scene would be worthless) it makes no sense for them to continue serving. Given that Destroy is the most likely "canon" ending for this upcoming game, I think it makes far more sense for Shepard to be in a political position or entirely retired in the next game. As for the N7, they are likely either the new PC or a squadmate. Assuming that they learned from Alec, it can't be anything else. Personally I want them to be a squadmate. Why? I want flexibility with the new PC. Dragon Age Style. Lemme be a different species in a meaningful way.

[@RobsRelay]

I agree entirely. Thanks for watching and sharing your thoughts!

[@jamskinner]

I hope they don’t go pushing a female shepherd as the main either. Most people played as male shepherd.

[@RobsRelay]

The developers clarified in interviews and the book "Stories and Secrets from 25 Years of Game Development" that the studio will not prioritize a gender for any protagonist moving forward. In other words, there will not be a canon gender for the main character. There will be equal representation. That said, I don't see the issue with a Femshep or female-presenting N7 being the poster figure for the game. It's not like doing so means that male Shepard doesn't exist or is somehow less valid. Ultimately, whatever the gender of the character used in marketing materials is a non-issue because who YOU play as in-game is what really matters.

[@CiaraC-hh7rm]

Now u made me sad when u mentioned thane😢 I liked him

[@RobsRelay]

I love Thane, too! It's incredible how we develop feelings for these characters. Hopefully, the next game will have many more characters just as memorable and loveable as Thane. Sorry to bring up the sad memories, but thanks for watching and sharing your thoughts!

[@CiaraC-hh7rm]

@@RobsRelay it’s ok it’s sad how he died though at least he died a hero

[@RobsRelay]

@@CiaraC-hh7rm Indeed. RIP Thane.

[@user-ui4hh7eo8z]

I doubt that we will be playing shealerd again but I do think they will be part of the story weather main or dlc If we are playing someone new I would love it if the asari companion we will have will be libra and sheaperds daughter because honestly most if not all of us chose to go for liara as a romance. I hope that somehow the geth are being rebuilt and repaired after destroy

[@RobsRelay]

I agree about wanting the geth to be rebuilt if the Destroy ending is made canon. It’s the simplest explanation for how to bring them back, but there are some significant challenges, like the Reaper code added to the geth in Mass Effect 3 (depending on the outcome of the war for Rannoch). Liara coming back as a crew member would also be really cool! Bioware released statistics for common choices made through the Legendary Edition, but romance choices weren’t included, so there’s no definitive way to tell which character was romanced most. For those who romanced Garrus or Tali, it would be pretty disheartening if Bioware made Liara the canon romance. So, I doubt we would get a Shepard daughter as a companion.

[@kylesimkunas]

I think it could be a offspring of shepherd and who ever the play hard a relationship with in mass effect 1 to 3 if the continued the relationship with Lara

[@RobsRelay]

This would be difficult to explain in cases like the Femshep romance with Garrus or the male Shepard romance with Tali, but anything's possible. Thanks for watching and sharing your thoughts!

[@DavidSantos-ix1hu]

I think its q mix of shepard and a ai,maybe a ai who thinks hes the origional shepard or shepard who lived longer through cybernetics.

[@RobsRelay]

This is an intriguing idea! It would certainly open the way to exploring themes of identity, asking questions that get to the core of who we really are and what makes us a person. Thanks for watching and sharing your thoughts!

[@Bliss226]

I bet you they knew Shepard

[@RobsRelay]

I think you could be correct. Thanks for watching and sharing your thoughts!

[@vh3914]

I think it’s best if BioWare come up with a new protagonist and jump 200 years forward after the Reaper War and combine the classic trilogy with Andromeda. Liara, Wrex and Grunt are still around to bring nostalgia and reference the past, helping the new character with their establishment. New characters bring new life into the Mass Effect and can be used for the future games. Over focusing on Shepard means living in the past. The franchise should move forward.

[@RobsRelay]

This is a very wise take, and I concur. Once we can finally let Shepard rest, there is so much more to be explored in Mass Effect, and I'm excited to get to that point. Thanks for watching and sharing your thoughts!

[@santiagonunez194]

Hate the stupid trenchcoats/ capes

[@RobsRelay]

I have to say I disagree! With the exception of the helmet, I quite like this character's look. It appears to be an indication of tone as well, signaling that the next game will be less of a military shooter and more of a spy thriller. This sounds like a very exciting prospect for the franchise, and I'm looking forward to seeing what comes from it. Thanks for watching and sharing your thoughts!

[@wildlymediocreoriginalrecipe]

Great video. You nailed it about the non-military design. I honestly don't think Shepard will be the protagonist. I think searching for him/her will be a great B plot to whatever new A plot they come up with. Something more personal for Liara to lead the charge on. Honestly I think making it a game where you play as the crew of the normandy would be optimal. Playing a game as Garrus and Tali and the rest would be tops in my book. If they want to focus on the Normandy still that's fine but I agree with the sentiment that Shepard had his/her time. Mass Effect needs it's TNG/DS9.

[@RobsRelay]

Thanks for the kind words! I agree 100% that the next game would benefit from a more personal story that’s smaller in scale compared to the trilogy. Leaning on Star Trek for inspiration could be a great move as well.

[@angeloalvarez5520]

We already know that it will take place over 600 years after the trilogy, because they're involving MEA lore in the story

[@raptorx4511]

Something id like is where you can choose the Heritage of your character like for example because of how many different romance options like your predominant ancestors is shepard but you can choose your other ancestor

[@RobsRelay]

This is a really neat idea! Implementing a feature like this would probably be very difficult due to the sheer number of narrative possibilities it creates, but it's a clever way to solve the issue of a "canon romance" option. I'm glad you shared this idea because I haven't seen it before, and I love hearing new ideas for the next game. Thanks so much for watching and adding to the conversation!

[@raptorx4511]

@RobsRelay see thats one of the reasons it works because of the possibilities we have seen Backstories in other bio were titles like dragon age for example so yes it would be hard to implement but simple at the same time in general it would fun to see yes we still play a shepard the dependent of the original a possibility of game play is some like the krogan actually rembering shepard for good or bad actually knowing the original shepard an treating you accordingly do to the actions that where picked or selected depending on if there is a choice in that regard

[@TheGostalex]

No is another character.

[@RobsRelay]

You might be right, and I'm inclined to agree. Thanks for watching and sharing your thoughts!

[@northernswiftborn862]

i wish they would let my bother rest. but these ppl just keep dragging his name through everything trying to make him the only sole character in which we can play. Andromeda was good for trying to branch the story further by showing us that all the species in the milky way had other plans to keep their ppl alive (sending colony ships to a different galaxy escaping the Reaper threat that they didn't know if they could win) & Ryder & other pathfinders mission is to make sure that their efforts were not in vain. then all of a sudden these so called fans just trashed the game.. why? because it wasn't shepherd & wasn't the aftermath story & or anything they thought it was so they throw a childish tantrum review bombing without giving the story a fair chance to even tell the story they tried to show acting like graphics are a necessity to tell a story. & now the new mass effect is going to have the same problem if they want to tell a new characters story. tantrums, review bombing & nothing but hate if shepherd isn't in it. at this point i am just disappointed to even consider myself a huge fan die hard even. this game was the reason i fell in love with story driven games with great characters be they random npc or companions in 1 amazing universe. it's to a point i don't even call myself a fan because of those types of ppl. you are not a fan if you don't give it a fair & unbiased chance to be what it can. A story of a character can only go so fair so stop dragging Shepherd around like a dam dog & let him rest something he needs & deserves. if anything i would have loved to yes meet them in the new game & if not maybe his children & spouse (whoever you chose). maybe even be one of his child's squad mate & or relative... something like that. but let shepherd's story be complete like dam he had 3 full amazing games which told his story.

[@RobsRelay]

I completely understand where you're coming from, and I agree entirely. It truly is disheartening to see so many supposed Mass Effect fans eagerly trash a game, let alone a yet-to-be-released game about which we know very little. However, I don't believe these individuals are even fans since they cannot seem to grasp what the series is actually about. I made my channel for fans like you-people who want to openly and thoughtfully discuss Mass Effect in a positive way. Your perspectives and ideas are valuable, and I encourage viewers to be open-minded about the future of the series and all the exciting possibilities that can be explored in the rich setting that Bioware has created. So, even though reading so much hate and silly tantrums about Mass Effect is disappointing, don't lose hope. The folks who love these games and stories are here-I'm one of 'em! The noise all the fake fans kick up always inevitably dies down, and what's left are those who appreciate what Mass Effect really stands for. Stick around, and I guarantee you'll find a home here amongst the fans who want to see the series thrive. Thank you so much for sharing your thoughts and frustrations with the fanbase. I hope you come back for more and engage in thoughtful conversations about this series we hold so dear.

[@jetla22]

Companies need to quit starting over in tge first place. So many people invested on the trilogy they would buy #4 even if its bad. Like Saints Row even if the gameplay was bad if it continued with the same characters people would have forgave the bad things

[@RobsRelay]

You're oversimplifying the situation a bit. The game must still be good; otherwise, most players won't be interested in playing. The fans you're speaking of, those who'll forgive the rough parts of a game, are already sold-fans like this are already more than likely going to pick up the next game no matter what. This is, unfortunately, a small number compared to the casual fans or people completely new to the series. Making a genuinely incredible game (new characters or old) is a much better move than making a mediocre one.

[@urdnot_noraa9690]

I hope that is a NEW character. I want new.

[@RobsRelay]

I agree! Thanks for watching and sharing your thoughts!

[@messityler4121]

well ryder experiment failed so what next? 🤣😂😅 create a new ryder?

[@RobsRelay]

After what happened with Andromeda, I'm sure the devs will be much more careful with the next game. Maybe this time, Bioware will make a more convincing protagonist than Ryder, supported by quality writing faithful to the trilogy's tone. As long as the trilogy is honored and the characters are written well for their setting, I think the game will turn out pretty well. The franchise director has indicated that all this has been considered for the next game, so I feel we're in good hands. Thanks for watching and sharing your thoughts!

[@usrob1]

If Bioware wants the Mass Effect series to truly move on and get the backing of the fans, they NEED to make this next game a closure of Shepard's story. Shepard needs to be the playable protagonist with VERY satisfying ending, A very HAPPY ENDING!

[@RobsRelay]

There's a lot of truth to what you say here. So many of us fans have lingering questions and are dissatisfied with Shepard's ending from Mass Effect 3. The N7 Day 2023 blog post has cheeky references to these exact things. Mike Gamble writes, "We’ve asked ourselves many of the same questions you’ve asked us over the years! What happened to everyone you know and love in the games? Who really died? Who had kids with whom? What does a baby volus sound like? What about all the galaxies? The endings! What the heck is going on with our asari scientist-turned-Shadowbroker? What about S- nevermind…you get the idea. And of course, to those questions, there are answers, but you’ll have to wait to hear them." The very fact that the devs are hinting at these details is a good enough reason to assume that Shepard's ending will be addressed in the next game. I'm excited to see where Bioware takes things! Thanks for watching and sharing your thoughts!

[@alexanderluthi4028]

I don't want this to be Shepard

[@RobsRelay]

Something about this character just doesn't feel like Shepard to me as well, but we'll see... Thanks for watching and sharing your thoughts!

[@alexanderluthi4028]

@@RobsRelay Shepard died in me 3 he shouldn't come back no matter which flavor of explosion he was in

[@RobsRelay]

@@alexanderluthi4028 How do you explain the breath in the Perfect Destroy Ending? This is the only ending in which we are led to believe that Shepard survives the Crucible blast...

[@alexanderluthi4028]

@@RobsRelay even if he survived he would still die of injuries and because he was 70% robot he wasn't going to survive anyway

[@RobsRelay]

@@alexanderluthi4028 Maybe-maybe not. The intention was to leave the possibility of Shepard's survival open for the fans who wanted that to be their Shepard's ending. If you wish your Shepard to have perished in the Crucible blast, that's great! If someone else wants their Shepard to have survived the explosion and live on in some fashion, that's also great! This is where the issue with open-ended conclusions comes in. We fans all have our own endings for our Shepards, and now Bioware has to sort it all out to find a way forward. The devs have a lot of work ahead of them, which I do not envy.

[@mizmera]

Liara with shepard me3 was probably canon. It is not shephard. It is his son or daughter from liara. This also means it is not liara in the first trailer. It could have been his offspring.

[@Dankus_Memeus_II]

Asari can’t have male children since all asari are female plus when they do have children they will always be asari

[@mizmera]

@@Dankus_Memeus_II exactly. Still explaining the asari on the trailer.

[@RobsRelay]

I don't know. I highly doubt Bioware would canonize something as crucial as Shepard's love interest. Imagine how disappointed Garrus or Tali romancers would be if they had to play Mass Effect 5, knowing their choices from previous games meant nothing. Moreover, this new N7 character is doubtful to be any race other than human simply because the N7 designation is exclusively reserved for Alliance Military personnel. In other words, there cannot be an asari N7. Maybe this rule could change in the next game, and I'd be curious to discover what caused this change. Until then, it's safe to assume this character is human and probably not a child of Shepard. Thanks for watching and sharing your thoughts!

[@mizmera]

@@RobsRelay Thanks for waking me from my nightmare I had. I am totally a Tali fan. Dont like Liara at all. But luckily you have good valid points. Thanks.

[@user-wr7mb3ic7m]

@mizmera The developers confirmed that in the 2020 teaser it was Liara

[@damianthornton8130]

curious on if anyone else has picked up on the fact none of mass effect 3's endings are now cannon, due to the fact ending 1 has you control the reapers, ending 2 has you combining organic and synthetic life together and ending 3 has you wipe all synthetic and ai based forms, there fore having geth in mass effect 5 wouldn't make sense as if you chose ending 3 you wiped them out along side the reapers, and you can't have ending 1 or ending 2 because the next mass effect game shows dead reapers. there-fore as much as it will break peoples hearts, Commander John shepard will not make a return as mass effect 5 would not be following any of the set timelines

[@RobsRelay]

We don't know anything for sure, so I'd hold off on saying anything is a fact just yet. Even after a few years of teasers, we don't know anything concrete about the next game's setting or placement on the timeline. Perhaps you're right that this game will be on a new timeline and act as a reboot, but it's all speculation at this point. Only time will tell, but for now, we cannot say with any degree of certainty if any ME3 ending is canon, not canon, or otherwise. I'm very excited to see where Bioware takes us, though... Thanks for watching and sharing your thoughts!

[@kmphere]

Shepard and Liara's blue child?

[@RobsRelay]

Perhaps, but I'm of the mindset that this is unlikely since the N7 designation is exclusive to humans in the Alliance military. However, the next game can introduce new ideas into the established lore, so we'll see... Thanks for watching and sharing your thoughts!

[@_dev_null_]

I would really like it to be Shepard or Shepard's daughter in the next game.

[@RobsRelay]

It would be nice to see Shepard for one last ride. We'll see! Thanks for watching and sharing your thoughts!

[@whatashame9300]

This is Liara. Sorry guys, there's no Shepard for us.

[@RobsRelay]

I doubt it because N7 is a designation reserved for humans in the Alliance Military. But I'm willing to admit that there is so much secrecy and mystery with the next game that it's possible for established lore to be subverted. Only time will tell... Thanks for watching and sharing your thoughts!

[@zer0d1vide41]

Shepard IS the "Mass Effect". He/She influenced the galaxy as much as the relays. I believe they will be back to lead a crew in the new game, can't wait.

[@RobsRelay]

We'll see! Thanks for watching and sharing your thoughts!

[@EstevanValladares]

If shepard still alive in the next game, it will be the stupidest decision ever made. Make his sacrifice an epic, to then make a mockery of it is beyond idiotic.

[@RobsRelay]

You're right that bringing back Shepard risks undercutting the awe and importance of their role in the trilogy. It's a very thin line that Bioware must tread for the next game, and I wish the devs all the best and good luck in handling this can of worms. I'm sure they're feeling the pressure... Thanks for watching and sharing your thoughts!

[@DaleTHFC]

Shephards Daughter from Liara

[@RobsRelay]

It's possible, but more than a little unlikely, given the fact that N7s are exclusively human. Moreover, canonizing a romance between Shepard and Liara would alienate players who pursued Garrus, Tali, Jack, etc., as love interests. Navigating the fan backlash regarding a decision like this would be challenging, to say the least, so it makes more sense if this character is either Shepard or a new person entirely with no biological connection to the Commander. Only time will tell... Thanks for watching and sharing your thoughts!

[@jeffdragon9439]

Could be his child.

[@RobsRelay]

Maybe it's Shepard's child, but this explanation has trouble holding water for Femshep players who romanced Garrus or male Shepard players who romanced Tali. It could be an adopted child in these cases, but it would take a lot of explaining to make it work. The Occam's Razor approach is that this is a new character with no biological ties to Shepard, and I'd be okay with that. Thanks for watching and sharing your thoughts!

[@TheBurg229]

Kid Shep through romance or surrogacy?

[@RobsRelay]

Perhaps, but this explanation has the potential to get really complicated...Still, anything is possible for the next game since we know so few hard facts. Thanks for watching and sharing your thoughts!

[@Knightsy24]

Maybe it’s shepherds daughter or son who’s an asari

[@RobsRelay]

It's possible, but it might be hard to explain given the fact that the N7 rank is exclusive to the Alliance military, i.e., humans. Who knows, maybe the next game will retcon this lore somehow. We'll see... Thanks for watching and sharing your thoughts!

[@TheFlyWahine]

Could also be Liara and Shepard's asari daughter. That N7's body language dont seam human to me, like powerful and confident imo asari. And asari dont have the "male and female" definitions humans have and use. They described that in ME 1. And Andromeda takes place 600+ years ago after Me 2 i belive. 648 years if im not mistaken? Only real way to continue Shapards jurney is Asari. I think human Shepard is done and overused and dont make sense to keep using that character. While Asari arent like humand and take traits from both parent races. So a Liara/Shepard Asari whould be really cool.

[@RobsRelay]

That is an interesting idea. Thanks for watching and sharing your thoughts!

[@Emanon...]

Shepard died in the "Destroy" ending. Get over it, people.

[@RobsRelay]

What do you think the breath at the end of the Perfect Destroy ending means? I agree that Shepard dies in every other ending, but Perfect Destroy was meant to be an open-ended conclusion for players who wanted their Shepard to survive. If you don't want your Shepard to survive, that's okay! If someone else wants their Shepard to live, that's okay too! The heart of what you're trying to get at is that Shepard's story is done, and I agree with you to an extent. It's risky to return to the well that is Shepard, especially when so many fans feel how you do-that the character is dead and we need to move on. One thing is for sure: the devs have their work cut for them with the next game, and I do not envy them. Thanks for watching and sharing your thoughts!

[@user-wr7mb3ic7m]

@Emanon... There are two official confirmations that Shepard is alive in Perfect Destroy.

[@moochoman9948]

This new N7 design is terrible

[@RobsRelay]

The only aspect of the design that I'm not sure about is the helmet. Everything else-the jacket especially-is interesting, and I think it has great potential. I'm betting that the way this N7 looks tells us fans a lot about what to expect tonally from Mass Effect 5, which I interpret as a thriller/espionage vibe. I'm excited to see where it goes! Thanks for watching and sharing your thoughts!

[@L0v3dNL0st]

Honestly, i could see them making Shepard and Liara a conan couple and that the new N7 is their child. And they're both looking for Shepard.

[@RobsRelay]

I'm doubtful of this. I feel fans would be much more willing to accept Bioware's choice of a canon ending than a canon romance. Imagine how betrayed Garrus, Tali, or Miranda romancers would feel if the devs decided Liara was Shepard's true romance. The backlash would be staggering...

[@conanmillstein832]

The new N7 is the love child of Liara and Sheppard is my guess. Asari human crossbreed. Human emotions, Asari longevity. At least I hope.

[@RobsRelay]

Asari and humans can have offspring-they are asari. So, in the case you mention, this character would be an asari. It's certainly possible, given the secrecy and mysteries regarding the next game. More than likely, however, this character is a human because N7s are exclusively human, as we know from established lore. Only time will tell, though... Thanks for watching and sharing your thoughts!

[@Justme42yay]

It’s Liara it would be cool if the first 1/6 of the game you play as her making her the cannon love interest and she brings back shepherd for 2/3’s of a game where shepherd relearns his skills due to being deaf for say 10 years and in new body. Then in the last mission they mention a side objective of saving a hostage and other than it being Asari nothing is truly said. Then at the end you find out that hostage was your kid you had with Liara. Then you can build the next game from the players choice with hostage was. Although i suggest no cliffhanger as it takes BioWare 10 years to make a sequel these days. Well if Dragon Age launches this November. So it would be like 2045 until they finish the trilogy.. real talk that’s nonsense

[@RobsRelay]

This seems unlikely. I doubt Bioware would make any romance choice canon. It seems incredibly unfair to force this on players who chose to pursue Garrus, Tali, Miranda, etc., as their love interests, which are all equally as valid as the romance with Liara. It's more probable that this is an entirely new character with no biological connection to Shepard, but only time will tell... Thanks so much for watching and sharing your ideas for the next game!

[@Justme42yay]

@@RobsRelay because why? Ok how about they just make the scene from shadow broker dlc cannon then no permanent romance choice just a choice from that dlc

[@Justme42yay]

@@RobsRelay oh btw I only said Liara because she was in the trailer. It could also be the players romance choice in the armor, and if you romanced Liara it could be Ashley if you saved her or EDI. After all who couldn’t use more Tricia Helfer in their day.

[@rinconusmc]

It isnt Sheppard. He is much more bulky even with femshep.

[@RobsRelay]

I'm inclined to agree. I get the feeling this is a new character. Who they are and if they'll be the player character remains to be seen. Thanks for watching and sharing your thoughts!

[@rcbbery]

Just want to be able to play as different races other than human :( It’s like playing Skyrim and being forced to play only nord

[@RobsRelay]

I hear what you're saying, and I agree it would be cool to play as one of the other races. From a technical standpoint, though, this would take a lot of work to pull off. Mass Effect already has a good amount of player choice regarding the narrative-adding the ability to play the game as either a krogan, asari, human, etc., would complicate the story to an extreme degree. The multiplayer mode for ME3 and Andromeda satisfied my craving for this well enough, especially on the combat abilities front. From the narrative front, though, it could be fun to role-play as a turian, but I'm worried the trade-offs would be too high. Besides, game development cycles are already long, and adding a feature like this would only bog it down further. Think about how long the wait for Elder Scrolls 6 has been. I wouldn't be happy waiting another decade for the next Mass Effect. Still, a Skyrim-esque RPG experience in the world of Mass Effect is a very enticing thought... Thanks for watching and sharing your thoughts!

[@rcbbery]

@@RobsRelay I agree, in a perfect world it would be cool. Hopefully there’s a fun multiplayer mode that will satiate my Turian and quarian needs lol. ME3 multiplayer I was invested in but I never got into andromedas multiplayer

[@RobsRelay]

@@rcbbery Same!

[@angeloalvarez5520]

I'd like to play a Salarian