The Mass Effect series is well known for a variety of things, one of which is its creative storytelling and romantic plotlines. February is “Creative Romance Month” and the perfect time to recount some of Mass Effect’s best romances for Commander Shepard and Pathfinder Ryder. Mass Effect: Andromeda left a lot to be desired with some players, but some of the romances in-game were still on par with others from the original trilogy. It featured both human and alien options for players to pick from, and some became fan favorites sooner than others.

Andromeda brought players to a new galaxy full of new characters and new romantic opportunities. The Andromeda galaxy also featured an entirely new, romanceable alien race known as the Angara. Both playable male or female versions of Ryder can have angara romance options, the most notable is squadmate Jaal Ama Darav. When players first meet Jaal he’s distrustful of them, but with enough dedication and trust, players can have a beautiful romance with the angaran soldier.

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When players first meet Jaal and all the other Angara, there is clearly a trust deficit between the two groups. The Angara are weary and abrasive against the humans because the last “alien” group they were introduced to were the Kett, the main enemy of the game. Ryder must prove their trustworthiness to the Angaran Resistance and government, so they volunteer to help rescue the Moshae from the Kett. Jaal offers his service to keep an eye on Ryder, but eventually becomes a permanent member of the Tempest's crew.

From the moment players meet him, Jaal seems to have a good sense of humor, even when he threatens to kill Ryder in their sleep. At first, Jaal keeps Ryder and the rest of the crew at arms’ length because he was told to be cautious. Eventually, Jaal will open up and become a part of the team, even having a funny “comparison” moment with Liam. Players also learn quickly that angara are very free and open with their emotions, so it’s not surprising that Jaal is typically up front and honest with Ryder once they have established trust.

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With the angara being so free and open about their emotions, it makes sense that Jaal’s romance is full of declarations of love, honest communication, and open displays of affection. It takes a bit of time to build up to having a romantic relationship with him, but Jaal’s vulnerability is endearing and refreshing. As far as Mass Effect: Andromeda romances go, Jaal’s is by far one of the most heartwarming, even though players must comfort Jaal through his heartbreak after finding out that the kett “Chosen” are transformed angara.

Jaal’s affection is sweet and sincere, always being honest with Ryder about how he feels towards them. Even when they first met, Jaal had a feeling that Ryder would do something great. But the added romantic feelings between Jaal and the player make for an even more immersive and rewarding gameplay experience. Though Ryder’s romantic dialogue can be awkward, it fits well with the fact that they were thrown into the role of Pathfinder and literally make things up as they go.

Jaal has some beautiful romantic scenes with Ryder, introducing them to his family and his old room, and even finding a secluded place together so they can be alone without any fear of interruption. Out of all the romance options for both Ryders in Mass Effect: Andromeda, Jaal is the most sincere and vulnerable, which also makes him one of the most memorable. If players want an emotionally fulfilling, shout-it-from-the-rooftops romance, Jaal is by far the best option for players to choose.

Mass Effect: Andromeda is available now for PC, PlayStation 4, and Xbox One.

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