Should You Shoot Harkin or Not?
In Mass Effect 2, you are given a crucial decision that can change the course of the game: whether or not to let Garrus, a key character, kill his past nemesis, Harkin, during a mission. This article will provide an in-depth analysis of this choice, highlighting the pros and cons, so you can make an informed decision.
Introduction
Harkin is a person who betrayed Garrus in the past, and his presence can either further fuel Garrus’ hatred or bring about justice and closure. As the player, you hold the power to decide what happens, but it’s essential to consider the broader implications of your choice.
Consequences of Killing Harkin
There are two main consequences to considering: Garrus’ character development and the implications on the mission.
Garrus’ Character Development:
- Violent closure: Killing Harkin will give Garrus a chance at violent closure, potentially resolving emotional conflicts that have been plaguing him for a long time.
- No conflict: If you choose this path, the mission will conclude peacefully, and Garrus will spare the life of Sidonis.
- Loyalty: Both outcomes will result in Garrus becoming loyal to you, regardless of which route you take.
Implications on the Mission
- Different dialogue options: Regardless of your choice, the dialogue during and after the mission will change based on your decision.
- Impact on Sidonis: If you opt for killing Harkin, Sidonis will live, but if you spare his life, he will die.
- Possible relationships: Your choice here will not affect your relationship with Sidonis, as he will make the ultimate sacrifice regardless.
Sparing Harkin’s Life: What’s at Stake?
Sparring Harkin’s life is also a viable option, with various pros and cons to consider:
Pros:
- Justice: Avoiding the death of Harkin represents justice, as he will answer for his past wrongdoings in a court of law.
- No blood on Garrison’s hands: By not killing Sidonis, Garrus will not become burdened with the weight of shedding blood.
Cons:
- Garrus’ character development: Sparing Harkin’s life may not address the underlying emotional issues that have been eating away at Garrus.
- More conflict: This choice leads to more conflict, as Sidonis’ life is at risk if Garrus doesn’t act on his desire for revenge.
| Option | Consequences |
|---|---|
| Kill Harkin | Violent closure, no conflict |
| Spare Harkin’s life | Different dialogue options, more conflict, potential for justice |
Conclusion
The decision to shoot Harkin or not is a crucial one, ultimately dependent on your understanding of Garrus’ character and the mission’s parameters. It’s essential to weigh the various factors and consider the potential consequences.
Remember, the choice you make reflects the character you want to play throughout the Mass Effect series. Will you offer Garrus a chance at emotional closure, or will you spare lives and uphold justice? The decision lies with you.
Additional Tips for Choosing the Right Path
- Listen to Garrus’ dialogue closely during the mission to gauge his motivations and emotional state.
- Make a note of the different reactions and outcomes based on your previous choices.
- Weigh the consequences of your decision, considering character development, the mission’s path, and the impact on the story’s overall narrative.
By taking into account the pros and cons, you will make a more informed decision that aligns with your desired outcome.