Do Mass Effect 3 choices matter in Andromeda?

Do Mass Effect 3 Choices Matter in Andromeda?

The Mass Effect trilogy concluded with Mass Effect 3, which brought an end to Commander Shepard’s story. Fans of the series eagerly anticipated the next installment, hoping that the choices they made in the trilogy would impact the new game. With Mass Effect: Andromeda’s release, a common question arose: do Mass Effect 3 choices matter in Andromeda? Unfortunately, the answer is no, and here’s why:

Timing is Everything

Before Mass Effect: Andromeda takes place, the Andromeda Initiative has launched and humanity has colonized new galaxies. The events of the original trilogy occurred over 600 years earlier. This significant gap means that the choices made by Commander Shepard and the Normandy’s crew have no direct impact on the narrative of Andromeda.

Predefined Outcomes

BioWare, the developer of the Mass Effect series, intentionally created a self-contained storyline for each installment. This means that the choices in Mass Effect 3 were always designed to conclude the trilogy and provide closure for the characters. The fate of humanity was predetermined, and the sequel could not be influenced by the player’s decisions.

No Communication between Worlds

In the Mass Effect universe, no form of communication exists between the Milky Way galaxy and the Andromeda galaxy. The Asari, a ancient alien species, have been trying to preserve life in the galaxy for millennia. While they have made efforts to reconnect the stars, there is no connection or contact between the two galaxies.

Disparate Storylines

The events in Andromeda are entirely new, with a unique cast of characters, missions, and conflicts. The storyline unfolds based on the player’s choices in-game, but these decisions do not alter the pre-established narrative.

Comparing the Two

Mass Effect 3 concludes the saga with a predetermined outcome, whereas Andromeda begins a new story. Each installment has its own self-contained story with separate choices and outcomes.

In-Game Differences

In Mass Effect 3, the player’s choices led to alternate outcomes for the galaxy. In contrast, Mass Effect: Andromeda introduces various romance options, loyalty missions, and mission outcomes, which differ depending on the player’s choices. Although the game acknowledges these variations, the overall story remains largely intact.

Conclusion

The answer is simple: no, the choices you made in Mass Effect 3 do not influence Mass Effect: Andromeda. BioWare designed each game as a standalone experience, allowing them to focus on new stories, characters, and game mechanics. While it would be wonderful to see the consequences of Shepard’s choices trickle into the new game, unfortunately, it is not the case. Andromeda is a new frontier for Mass Effect, with a story crafted independently of the original trilogy.

That being said, players should not be discouraged. Mass Effect: Andromeda offers its own exciting narrative, engaging characters, and emotional investment opportunities. Embrace this fresh start and experience the adventure as intended – a standalone adventure within the Mass Effect universe.