Why It’s Time for a Complete Franchise Overhaul

Mass Effect 4 is a game that holds significant intrigue, particularly due to its pivotal role in BioWare’s current line-up. As the studio navigates the aftermath of Dragon Age: The Veilguard’s polarized reception, Mass Effect 4 emerges as a crucial element that could potentially define BioWare’s evolving legacy.

Compared to Veilguard, Mass Effect 4 sits at a critical juncture. The controversial ending of Mass Effect 3 still sparks debate, standing as a conclusive finale that left little room for further storytelling. This closed chapter was underscored by Mass Effect: Andromeda in 2017, which jumped centuries ahead into a new galaxy with fresh characters. Rumors suggest Mass Effect 4 may return to the familiar Milky Way and possibly revive a character from the original trilogy. However, it might be wise for the series to create some distance from the Captain Shepard narrative, paving the way for new adventures.

The Mass Effect Trilogy, as it stands, doesn’t offer much of a roadmap forward. Out of the eight different conclusions in Mass Effect 3, just one hints at Shepard’s survival, specifically the Perfect Destroy ending, which involves wiping out all synthetic life, including the Reapers. Even if Shepard somehow survives the onslaught, their story feels complete, leaving little need for heroics beyond a well-deserved retirement.

Reintroducing Shepard in Mass Effect 4 could risk either diluting their legacy or cluttering a conclusive end. Shepard’s role was to be the hero at a moment of dire need, and undoing that closure might feel forced. While it could stir some nostalgia among fans, it might not add much else. With Andromeda’s ending being more open, turning back to it seems unlikely for BioWare; the game didn’t win over critics or fans, and its characters are debatably not worth revisiting after so long.

The best path forward for Mass Effect 4 might be a new story that’s only loosely tied to previous games. It appears, at least, that Liara T’Soni will play a part in this upcoming installment. As an Asari, Liara has the longevity to connect events taking place centuries after the previous games, making her a natural link to the narrative.

The Mass Effect 4 reveal trailer, where Liara discovers a piece of N7 armor, hints at the potential for the iconic special forces squad to be revived after a significant hiatus. Centering the story around Liara seems to be a promising approach. This choice allows for continuity through her familiar presence while also maintaining enough distance to explore new horizons. BioWare doesn’t need to leave behind the legacy of Mass Effect; rather, it could benefit from focusing on fresh ideas and characters instead of reassembling the old team.