Commander Shepard’s name in the next Mass Effect game was “a mistake,” BioWare clarifies

It was my favorite rumor on the Citadel.
Image via BioWare

The end of Mass Effect 3 is also the end of Commander Shepard, or so fans thought. While Mass Effect: Andromeda didn’t include the central character, it seemed like the commander would be returning for future games in the series. BioWare has since debunked the rumor with a cut-and-dry clarification.

Recommended Videos

A lithographic print of key art from 2021’s N7 Day had an eye-catching description. “While Shepard and the survivors are left to pick up the pieces, fans are left wondering what’s next,” it read. Shepard’s name was later edited out of the blurb, leading fans to believe that the name unintentionally spoiled the character’s inclusion in the next game. However, it was a simple error on BioWare’s part.

Project director Michael Gamble said as much on Twitter when fans began questioning things. “Yeah, that was a mistake,” the tweet reads. “Fixed.” Gamble’s response is to-the-point, and fans should infer from it that Shepard’s arc is indeed wrapped with the original trilogy (which is available through the Legendary Edition on Game Pass for folks who want to give it a go).

That said, there is plenty of room for speculation around other Mass Effect paraphernalia. In fact, the very print that caused this whole kerfuffle was specifically created for fans to go over with a fine-tooth comb. The N7 Day artwork teases Geth, a new ship, and more. Blog posts from BioWare have stated that there are several clues in the piece, leading to tons of fan perusal and speculation.

What we know for sure is that the next Mass Effect game has gone into early development. That was confirmed in an additional blog post just a few months ago. That’s not surprising, as BioWare general manager Gary McKay promised an “amazing future” for Mass Effect and Dragon Age at the beginning of the year.


Gamepur is supported by our audience. When you purchase through links on our site, we may earn a small affiliate commission. Learn more
related content
Read Article Should You Attack Balak or Let Balak Go to Save Hostages in Mass Effect Legendary Edition?
Balak in Mass Effect Legendary Edition
Read Article Should You Free or Kill the Rachni Queen in Mass Effect Legendary Edition?
What to do with the Rachni Queen in Mass Effect 3
Read Article Top 10 Games To Buy During Steam Autumn Sale This Black Friday
Steam Autumn Sale
Read Article Should you help the Rachni Queen escape or leave her in Mass Effect 3 Legendary Edition?
Read Article BioWare Is Teasing Fans With N7 Day “Nebula” Teaser – And We Are All For It
Mass-Effect-Nebula-Teaser-from-BioWare
Related Content
Read Article Should You Attack Balak or Let Balak Go to Save Hostages in Mass Effect Legendary Edition?
Balak in Mass Effect Legendary Edition
Read Article Should You Free or Kill the Rachni Queen in Mass Effect Legendary Edition?
What to do with the Rachni Queen in Mass Effect 3
Read Article Top 10 Games To Buy During Steam Autumn Sale This Black Friday
Steam Autumn Sale
Read Article Should you help the Rachni Queen escape or leave her in Mass Effect 3 Legendary Edition?
Read Article BioWare Is Teasing Fans With N7 Day “Nebula” Teaser – And We Are All For It
Mass-Effect-Nebula-Teaser-from-BioWare
Author
Tony Wilson
Tony has been covering games for more than a decade. Tony loves platformers, RPGs and puzzle games.